0001193125-18-266014.txt : 20180904 0001193125-18-266014.hdr.sgml : 20180904 20180904143403 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001193125-18-266014 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: N-CSRS PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 5 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20180630 FILED AS OF DATE: 20180904 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20180904 EFFECTIVENESS DATE: 20180904 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: TRANSAMERICA SERIES TRUST CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000778207 IRS NUMBER: 000000000 STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE FISCAL YEAR END: 1231 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: N-CSRS SEC ACT: 1940 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 811-04419 FILM NUMBER: 181052107 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 1801 CALIFORNIA STREET STREET 2: SUITE 5200 CITY: DENVER STATE: CO ZIP: 80202 BUSINESS PHONE: 720-493-4256 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 1801 CALIFORNIA STREET STREET 2: SUITE 5200 CITY: DENVER STATE: CO ZIP: 80202 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: AEGON/TRANSAMERICA SERIES TRUST DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 20050511 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: AEGON/TRANSAMERICA SERIES FUND INC DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 20010501 FORMER COMPANY: FORMER CONFORMED NAME: WRL SERIES FUND INC DATE OF NAME CHANGE: 19920703 0000778207 S000007896 Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP C000021437 Initial C000021438 Service 0000778207 S000007898 Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP C000021441 Initial C000021442 Service 0000778207 S000007899 Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP C000021443 Initial C000021444 Service 0000778207 S000007902 Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP C000021449 Initial C000021450 Service 0000778207 S000007903 Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP C000021451 Initial C000021452 Service 0000778207 S000007905 Transamerica Jennison Growth VP C000021455 Initial C000021456 Service 0000778207 S000007908 Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP C000021461 Initial C000021462 Service 0000778207 S000007909 Transamerica AEGON High Yield Bond VP C000021463 Initial C000021464 Service 0000778207 S000007911 Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP C000021467 Initial C000021468 Service 0000778207 S000007912 Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP C000021469 Initial C000021470 Service 0000778207 S000007915 Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP C000021475 Initial C000021476 Service 0000778207 S000007918 Transamerica MFS International Equity VP C000021481 Initial C000021482 Service 0000778207 S000007919 Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP C000021483 Initial C000021484 Service 0000778207 S000007920 Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP C000021485 Initial C000021486 Service 0000778207 S000007921 Transamerica WMC US Growth VP C000021487 Initial C000021488 Service 0000778207 S000007922 Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP C000021489 Initial 0000778207 S000007924 Transamerica AEGON Government Money Market VP C000021493 Initial C000021494 Service 0000778207 S000007925 Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP C000021495 Initial C000021496 Service 0000778207 S000007926 Transamerica AEGON U.S. Government Securities VP C000021497 Initial C000021498 Service 0000778207 S000007928 Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP C000021501 Initial C000021502 Service 0000778207 S000007929 Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation - Conservative VP C000021503 Initial C000021504 Service 0000778207 S000007930 Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP C000021505 Initial C000021506 Service 0000778207 S000007931 Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP C000021507 Initial C000021508 Service 0000778207 S000007932 Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation - Growth VP C000021509 Initial C000021510 Service 0000778207 S000007933 Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation - Moderate VP C000021511 Initial C000021512 Service 0000778207 S000007934 Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation - Moderate Growth VP C000021513 Initial C000021514 Service 0000778207 S000012821 Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP C000034664 Initial C000034665 Service 0000778207 S000021746 Transamerica Managed Risk - Balanced ETF VP C000062365 Initial C000062366 Service 0000778207 S000021747 Transamerica Managed Risk - Growth ETF VP C000062367 Initial C000062368 Service 0000778207 S000025012 Transamerica Janus Balanced VP C000074409 Service C000074410 Initial 0000778207 S000025013 Transamerica PIMCO Tactical - Balanced VP C000074411 Service C000074412 Initial 0000778207 S000025014 Transamerica PIMCO Tactical - Growth VP C000074413 Service C000074414 Initial 0000778207 S000025015 Transamerica PIMCO Tactical - Conservative VP C000074415 Service C000074416 Initial 0000778207 S000025331 Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP C000075538 Service 0000778207 S000025458 Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP C000076203 Initial C000076204 Service 0000778207 S000025459 Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP C000076205 Initial C000076206 Service 0000778207 S000026902 Transamerica Managed Risk - Conservative ETF VP C000080975 Initial C000080976 Service 0000778207 S000031950 Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation - Conservative VP C000099459 Initial C000099460 Service 0000778207 S000031951 Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation - Moderate Growth VP C000099461 Initial C000099462 Service 0000778207 S000031952 Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation - Moderate VP C000099463 Initial C000099464 Service 0000778207 S000031953 Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP C000099466 Service 0000778207 S000031954 Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP C000099467 Service 0000778207 S000031955 Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP C000099470 Service 0000778207 S000031958 Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP C000099475 Initial C000099476 Service 0000778207 S000036843 Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation - Balanced VP C000112676 Service 0000778207 S000036844 Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation - Growth VP C000112678 Service 0000778207 S000036845 Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP C000112680 Service 0000778207 S000042775 Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP C000132312 Initial C000132313 Service 0000778207 S000047203 Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk - Balanced VP C000147921 Service 0000778207 S000047204 Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk - Growth VP C000147923 Service 0000778207 S000049122 Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP C000154895 Service 0000778207 S000053165 Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP C000167272 Service 0000778207 S000053166 Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP C000167273 Service 0000778207 S000053167 Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP C000167274 Service 0000778207 S000057298 Transamerica International Equity Index VP C000182874 Service C000197833 Initial 0000778207 S000057299 Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP C000182875 Service C000197834 Initial 0000778207 S000059116 Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP C000193819 Service 0000778207 S000060985 Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP C000197832 Service N-CSRS 1 d544841dncsrs.htm N-CSRS N-CSRS

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 4, 2018

 

 

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM N-CSR

 

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED

MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number: 811-04419

 

 

TRANSAMERICA SERIES TRUST

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

 

 

1801 California St., Suite 5200, Denver, Colorado 80202

(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

 

 

Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code: (720) 482-8991

Tané T. Tyler, Esq., 1801 California St., Suite 5200, Denver, Colorado 80202

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

 

 

Date of fiscal year end:    December 31

Date of reporting period:    January 1, 2018 – June 30, 2018

 

 

 


Item 1:

Report(s) to Shareholders.

The Semi-Annual Report is attached.


Transamerica Series Trust Semi-Annual Report

1801 California St., Suite 5200

Denver, CO 80202

Distributor: Transamerica Capital, Inc.

Customer Service: 1-800-851-9777

 

   The following pages contain the most recent annual reports for the investment options in which you are invested. In compliance with Securities and Exchange Commission regulations, we present these reports on an annual and semi-annual basis with the hope that they will foster greater understanding of the investment options’ holdings, performance, financial data, accounting policies and other issues. This streamlined version provides information only on the investment options in which you are invested.
   If you have any questions about these reports, please do not hesitate to contact your financial professional. As always, we thank you for your trust and the opportunity to serve you.


Dear Contract Holder,

On behalf of Transamerica Series Trust, we would like to thank you for your continued support and confidence in our products as we look forward to continuing to serve you and your financial adviser in the future. We value the trust you have placed in us.

This semi-annual report is provided to you to show the investments and performance of your Portfolio(s) during the period ended. The Securities and Exchange Commission requires that annual and semi-annual reports be sent to all contract holders, and we believe it to be an important part of the investment process. This report provides detailed information about your Portfolio(s) for the six-month period ended June 30, 2018.

We believe it is important to understand market conditions over the six-month period ended June 30, 2018 to provide a context for reading this report. Following a strong first month of 2018, volatility quickly returned to the equity markets as concerns emerged focusing on inflation, interest rates and global trade. Expectations of continued benign inflation were tested when wage growth for the January employment report came in higher than anticipated, and this resulted in longer term interest rates rising as well. This sent stocks into correction mode as the S&P 500® and Dow Jones Industrial Average both declined by more than 10% during the last week of January and first week of February.

In the weeks that followed, international trade took center stage as concerns of potential U.S. imposed tariffs created more volatility in the markets and stocks reached new lows for the year in late March. Initially aimed at China’s aluminum and steel exports, the prospect of more widely-spread tariffs grew throughout the spring and into the early summer, expanding to broader categories of goods and more regions, including Canada, Mexico and the Eurozone. As the tariffs on China approached actual implementation, the market reaction was more muted and stocks had appreciated from their previous lower levels.

U.S. equities benefitted from an improving environment for corporate profits as first quarter operating earnings growth for the S&P 500® reached their highest annualized rate in eight years. As full year 2018 estimates for earnings growth were upgraded following these strong reports, macroeconomic news was also favorable as the unemployment rate reached its lowest level in almost two decades. While these encouraging fundamentals allowed the S&P 500® to post a gain for the period, the index still finished below its January high watermark.

Following their strong performance in 2017, international developed and emerging markets experienced declines during the period as concerns of reduced international trade and declining rates of economic growth in Europe and Japan for the first quarter were viewed with caution by investors. Emerging market currencies also depreciated, which pressured the equities of those regions as well.

Both short and long term interest rates rose during the period as strong employment trends and expectations of higher inflation provided a backdrop for the U.S. Federal Reserve to increase the Fed Funds Rate twice, both times by 0.25%, in the months of March and June. The 10-year Treasury yield rose considerably during the early months of the year and by the middle of May had reached 3.11%, more than 0.60% higher than where it started the year, before backing off to 2.85% to close the period. Despite this increase, the yield curve between 2-year and 10-year bonds continued to flatten and closed out the period at just 0.33%, its tightest gap in more than ten years. This fueled some debate as to whether this narrow range is a predictor of slowing economic growth or the result of suppressed long term rates in other regions of the world. The London Interbank Offering Rate (“LIBOR”) also increased from 1.69% to 2.34% during the period.

For the six-month period ended June 30, 2018, the S&P 500® returned 2.65%, while the MSCI EAFE Index, representing international developed market equities, returned -2.37%. During the same period, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index returned -1.62%. Please keep in mind that it is important to maintain a diversified portfolio as investment returns have historically been difficult to predict.

In addition to your active involvement in the investment process, we firmly believe that a financial professional is a key resource to help you build a complete picture of your current and future financial needs. Financial professionals are familiar with the market’s history, including long-term returns and volatility of various asset classes. With your professional, you can develop an investment program that incorporates factors such as your goals, your investment timeline and your risk tolerance.

Please contact your financial professional if you have any questions about the contents of this report, and thanks again for the confidence you have placed in us.

Sincerely,

 

LOGO

Marijn Smit

President & Chief Executive Officer

Transamerica Series Trust

LOGO

Tom Wald, CFA

Chief Investment Officer

Transamerica Series Trust

 

 

S&P 500®: a market-capitalization weighted index of 500 large U.S. companies with common stock listed on the NYSE or NASDAQ.

Dow Jones Industrial Average: a market that shows how 30 large, publicly owned companies based in the U.S. have traded during a standard trading session in the stock market.

MSCI EAFE Index: a free float-adjusted market capitalization index that is designed to measure the equity market performance of developed markets, excluding the U.S. and Canada.

Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index: measures investment grade, U.S. dollar denominated, fixed-rate taxable bonds, including Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities, as well as both mortgage- and asset-backed securities.

The views expressed in this report reflect those of the portfolio managers only and may not necessarily represent the views of Transamerica Series Trust. These views are as of the date of this report and subject to change based upon market conditions. These views should not be relied upon as investment advice and are not indicative of trading intent on behalf of Transamerica Series Trust. Investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal. The performance data presented represents past performance, future results may vary. Indexes are unmanaged and an investor cannot invest directly in an index.


Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The actual expense examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 12, 2018, and held for the entire period until June 30, 2018.

The hypothetical expense examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   976.00     $   2.88     $   1,021.70     $   3.16       0.63
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Portfolio commenced operations on January 12, 2018. Actual expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (169 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days). For comparability purposes, hypothetical expenses assume that the Portfolio was in operation for the entire six-month period ended June 30, 2018. Thus, the hypothetical expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Fund

     45.8

U.S. Fixed Income Fund

     39.8  

International Equity Fund

     14.9  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.5

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 100.5%  
International Equity Fund - 14.9%  

Transamerica International Equity Index VP (A)

    24,651        $  266,967  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Fund - 45.8%  

Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP (A)

    70,534        817,484  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Fund - 39.8%  

Transamerica Core Bond (B)

    73,644        710,669  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $1,798,700)

 

     1,795,120  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,798,700)

 

     1,795,120  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.5)%

       (9,587
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,785,533  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

Investments

 

Investment Companies

  $ 1,795,120     $     $     $ 1,795,120  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,795,120     $     $     $ 1,795,120  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Service Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.
(B)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $1,798,700)

  $ 1,795,120  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Due from investment manager

    608  

Investments sold

    58  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,795,786  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    58  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    277  

Distribution and service fees

    278  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    30  

Audit and tax fees

    8,214  

Custody fees

    1,085  

Legal fees

    5  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    284  

Other

    22  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    10,253  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,785,533  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,830  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,786,800  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    1,821  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (1,338

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (3,580
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,785,533  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    182,971  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 9.76  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (A)

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from Affiliated investments

  $ 3,054  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    3,054  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    587  

Distribution and service fees

    489  

Transfer agent costs

    1  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    39  

Audit and tax fees

    8,214  

Custody fees

    2,587  

Legal fees

    350  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    868  

Other

    315  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    13,450  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

      (13,172

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees

    955  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    1,233  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    1,821  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (1,338
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (3,580
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (4,918
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (3,097
 

 

 

 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on January 12, 2018.
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited) (A)
 

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,821  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,338

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (3,580
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (3,097
 

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    1,857,516  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (68,886
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    1,788,630  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    1,785,533  
 

 

 

 

Net assets:

 

Beginning of period

     
 

 

 

 

End of period

  $   1,785,533  
 

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,821  
 

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    189,945  

Shares redeemed

    (6,974
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    182,971  
 

 

 

 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on January 12, 2018.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited) (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 10.00  
 

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

    0.04  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.28
 

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.24
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 9.76  
 

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (2.40 )%(E) 
 

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period (000’s)

  $   1,786  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    6.87 %(G) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.63 %(G) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

    0.93 %(G) 

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    14 %(E) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on January 12, 2018.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)   

Not annualized.

(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) commenced operations on January 12, 2018. The Portfolio is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act.

The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM is responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate (A)  

First $1 billion

     0.30

Over $1 billion

     0.28  

 

(A)   TAM has contractually agreed to waive 0.18% of its management fee through May 1, 2019. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM.

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     0.63      May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

     Amounts Available  
      2018      Total  

Service Class

   $   11,865      $   11,865  

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  1,871,428     $  74,445

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,798,700   $  2,543   $  (6,123)   $  (3,580)

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT — INITIAL CONTRACT APPROVAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on December 6-7, 2017, the Board considered the proposed management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP (the “Portfolio” or “60/40”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement were reasonable and that the approval of the Management Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the Management Agreement for an initial two-year period.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the proposed Management Agreement. In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM present and were represented throughout the process by independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed approval of the Management Agreement, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services to be Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services expected to be provided by TAM. The Board considered the proposed investment strategies and approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; the continuous and regular management services to be provided by TAM; the experience of TAM with the proposed investment strategy; the professional qualifications and experience of the portfolio management team; and the team’s expertise in managing asset allocation strategies. In this regard, the Board noted that TAM will leverage a methodology that is very similar to that already utilized in TAM’s direct management of certain other allocation funds, and that the same portfolio management team that manages those allocation portfolios will manage 60/40.

In addition to the portfolio management services TAM would provide to 60/40, the Board noted that TAM’s services would include the services TAM provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including oversight of the services provided by the custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervision of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions. The Board further considered that TAM’s management services also would include, among other things, the provision of supervisory, compliance and administrative services to 60/40. Based on these and other considerations, the Trustees determined that TAM can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of 60/40’s operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business, and investor needs.

Investment Performance

The Board recognized that 60/40 is not yet in existence and therefore has no historical performance for the Board to review. However, the Board considered back-tested performance results of the strategy, which, subject to a number of limitations, showed how 60/40 would have performed if it had been operating in the past. While the back-tested results were below the all-equity benchmark (S&P 500 Index) for the relevant periods ended September 30, 2017, the returns were competitive against the blended benchmark, which consists of 45% S&P 500 Index, 15% MSCI EAFE NR Index, and 40% Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index. The Board considered that the back-tested results showed that the performance of 60/40 would have provided a favorable risk profile against the peer group median and both benchmarks over all common time periods, as measured by both standard deviation and maximum drawdown. The back tested results also showed that 60/40 would have provided favorable risk-adjusted results, as measured by the Sharpe ratio, against the peer group median over all common time periods, and against both benchmarks over the one and ten-year periods. On the basis of this information and the Board’s assessment of the nature, extent and quality of the management services to be provided by TAM, the Board concluded that TAM is capable of generating a level of investment performance that is appropriate in light of 60/40’s proposed investment objective, policies and strategies.

Management Fee, Cost of Services to be Provided and Profitability

The Board considered the proposed management fee and anticipated total expense ratio of 60/40, including information comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of 60/40 to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in Lipper and Morningstar peer universes. The Board noted that the proposed management fee for 60/40 was equal to both the Lipper and Morningstar medians, but 0.18% of the 0.30% fee will also be contractually waived by TAM until May 1, 2019. On the basis of these and other considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management fees to be received by TAM under the Management Agreement are reasonable in light of the services to be provided.

The Board noted that 60/40 was not yet in existence and therefore no revenue, cost or profitability data was available for the Board to review. However, the Board reviewed projected profitability information provided by TAM regarding its costs of portfolio management

 

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Transamerica 60/40 Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT — INITIAL CONTRACT APPROVAL (continued)

 

services as well as the costs of providing transfer agency and other services to 60/40 by TAM and its affiliates. Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with 60/40 was not anticipated to be excessive.

Economies of Scale

In evaluating the extent to which the management fees payable under the Management Agreement reflect economies of scale or would permit economies of scale to be realized in the future, the Board took note of TAM’s fee schedule and the existence of management fee breakpoints, as detailed in the materials provided to the Board. The Trustees noted that the proposed fees and breakpoints may benefit contract holders by permitting economies of scale in the form of lower management fees as the level of assets grows for the Portfolio. The Trustees also noted that, in the future, they would have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fees payable to TAM in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Fall-Out Benefits

The Board considered other benefits expected to be derived by TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with 60/40. The Board noted that TAM would not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with 60/40. The Board noted that it would have the opportunity in the future to review the potential benefits over time.

Other Considerations

The Board considered the investment objective of 60/40 and its investment strategy and noted that TAM believes that 60/40 would enhance Transamerica Series Trust’s product line-up. The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel, and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage 60/40 in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of 60/40 and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered TAM’s procedures and policies to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of 60/40.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the approval of the Management Agreement was in the best interest of 60/40 and the contract holders and voted to approve the Management Agreement.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   985.30     $   4.18     $   1,020.60     $   4.26       0.85

Service Class

    1,000.00       984.20       5.41       1,019.30       5.51       1.10  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     42.0

U.S. Government Obligations

     22.6  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     16.6  

Corporate Debt Securities

     13.7  

Exchange-Traded Funds

     2.1  

Foreign Government Obligations

     1.8  

Securities Lending Collateral

     1.4  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.3  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     0.8  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation

     0.4  

Asset-Backed Securities

     0.3  

Municipal Government Obligations

     0.2  

Preferred Stocks

     0.1  

Rights

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (3.3

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 42.0%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.9%  

Airbus SE

    2,514        $  294,348  

Arconic, Inc.

    4,133        70,302  

BAE Systems PLC

    10,735        91,636  

Boeing Co.

    2,400        805,224  

Elbit Systems, Ltd.

    100        11,774  

General Dynamics Corp.

    1,300        242,333  

Leonardo SpA

    2,100        20,762  

Lockheed Martin Corp.

    1,200        354,516  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    1,000        307,700  

Raytheon Co.

    1,400        270,452  

Rockwell Collins, Inc.

    700        94,276  

Safran SA

    1,448        175,946  

Textron, Inc.

    400        26,364  

Thales SA

    400        51,547  

United Technologies Corp.

    3,700        462,611  
    

 

 

 
       3,279,791  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.3%  

Bollore SA

    8,800        40,942  

CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc.

    600        50,196  

Deutsche Post AG

    3,560        116,282  

Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.

    900        65,790  

FedEx Corp.

    1,300        295,178  

United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B

    2,600        276,198  

Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd. (A)

    1,300        38,325  
    

 

 

 
       882,911  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.1%  

American Airlines Group, Inc.

    1,600        60,736  

ANA Holdings, Inc.

    500        18,376  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    2,100        104,034  

Deutsche Lufthansa AG

    1,600        38,491  

easyJet PLC

    200        4,416  

International Consolidated Airlines Group SA

    4,800        42,164  

Ryanair Holdings PLC, ADR (B)

    70        7,996  

Singapore Airlines, Ltd.

    2,000        15,692  

Southwest Airlines Co.

    1,400        71,232  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (B)

    2,000        139,460  
    

 

 

 
       502,597  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.3%  

Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.

    900        41,051  

Aptiv PLC

    1,700        155,771  

Autoliv, Inc. (A)

    300        42,966  

BorgWarner, Inc.

    1,000        43,160  

Bridgestone Corp.

    2,800        109,582  

Cie Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA

    701        85,383  

Continental AG

    385        87,920  

Denso Corp.

    2,100        102,653  

Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    300        19,835  

Magna International, Inc.

    1,300        75,608  

NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.

    1,000        28,542  

Nokian Renkaat OYJ

    350        13,831  

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

    2,700        40,238  

Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. (A)

    900        14,307  

Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.

    800        20,297  

Toyota Industries Corp.

    500        28,045  

Valeo SA

    1,200        65,612  
    

 

 

 
       974,801  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Automobiles - 0.7%  

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

    1,182        $   107,156  

Daimler AG

    4,103        264,155  

Ferrari NV

    292        39,726  

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (B)

    6,026        114,945  

Ford Motor Co.

    12,800        141,696  

General Motors Co.

    5,963        234,942  

Harley-Davidson, Inc.

    700        29,456  

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

    6,300        185,105  

Mazda Motor Corp.

    2,200        27,024  

Mitsubishi Motors Corp.

    3,400        27,116  

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

    10,500        102,235  

Peugeot SA

    2,300        52,537  

Renault SA (A)

    805        68,466  

Subaru Corp.

    3,000        87,387  

Suzuki Motor Corp.

    1,300        71,837  

Tesla, Inc. (B)

    558        191,366  

Toyota Motor Corp.

    8,500        550,467  

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (A)

    1,000        25,164  
    

 

 

 
       2,320,780  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 3.8%  

AIB Group PLC

    2,300        12,490  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.

    11,541        241,196  

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA

    27,863        197,638  

Banco de Sabadell SA

    3,772        6,323  

Banco Espirito Santo SA (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

    8,203        0  

Banco Santander SA

    69,665        373,581  

Bank Hapoalim BM

    1,671        11,328  

Bank Leumi Le-Israel BM

    5,297        31,343  

Bank of America Corp.

    39,200        1,105,048  

Bank of East Asia, Ltd.

    5,000        19,979  

Bank of Ireland Group PLC

    4,660        36,379  

Bank of Montreal

    2,699        208,628  

Bank of Nova Scotia

    4,400        249,143  

Bankia SA (A)

    12,024        45,032  

Barclays PLC

    64,908        161,902  

BB&T Corp.

    3,400        171,496  

BNP Paribas SA

    4,145        257,468  

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

    17,500        82,419  

CaixaBank SA

    1,400        6,059  

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (A)

    1,800        156,580  

CIT Group, Inc.

    1,000        50,410  

Citigroup, Inc.

    10,611        710,088  

Citizens Financial Group, Inc.

    2,600        101,140  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

    7,140        385,042  

Credit Agricole SA

    4,350        58,089  

Danske Bank A/S

    3,242        101,504  

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

    7,000        136,712  

DNB ASA

    4,574        89,465  

Erste Group Bank AG (B)

    1,234        51,518  

Fukuoka Financial Group, Inc.

    3,000        15,093  

Hang Seng Bank, Ltd.

    2,800        70,021  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    78,583        737,067  

ING Groep NV

    16,960        244,167  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

    58,880        170,972  

Japan Post Bank Co., Ltd.

    1,300        15,147  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    13,800        1,437,960  

KBC Group NV

    1,053        81,307  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

KeyCorp

    4,700        $   91,838  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    335,233        278,948  

M&T Bank Corp.

    1,000        170,150  

Mebuki Financial Group, Inc.

    3,500        11,760  

Mediobanca Banca di Credito Finanziario SpA

    1,088        10,116  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

    44,000        250,810  

Mizrahi Tefahot Bank, Ltd.

    500        9,199  

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

    105,000        176,873  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.

    11,557        234,431  

National Bank of Canada (A)

    1,400        67,218  

Nordea Bank AB

    10,999        105,953  

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp., Ltd.

    12,000        102,517  

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

    1,900        256,690  

Raiffeisen Bank International AG

    532        16,333  

Regions Financial Corp.

    5,500        97,790  

Resona Holdings, Inc.

    8,000        42,820  

Royal Bank of Canada

    5,700        429,196  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC (B)

    1,000        3,380  

Seven Bank, Ltd.

    5,320        16,289  

Shinsei Bank, Ltd.

    1,000        15,409  

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB, Class A

    5,953        56,601  

Societe Generale SA

    3,782        159,506  

Standard Chartered PLC

    14,639        133,809  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    5,300        206,131  

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings, Inc.

    1,400        55,550  

Svenska Handelsbanken AB, A Shares

    6,612        73,497  

Swedbank AB, Class A

    3,890        83,301  

Toronto-Dominion Bank

    7,200        416,725  

UniCredit SpA

    8,855        147,833  

United Overseas Bank, Ltd.

    5,000        98,202  

US Bancorp

    6,900        345,138  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    18,400        1,020,096  

Westpac Banking Corp. (A)

    14,817        321,284  
    

 

 

 
       13,335,127  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.8%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA

    2,775        280,316  

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd.

    1,400        71,723  

Brown-Forman Corp., Class B

    1,500        73,515  

Carlsberg A/S, Class B

    449        52,895  

Coca-Cola Co.

    14,900        653,514  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    600        131,322  

Diageo PLC

    10,637        382,119  

Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Inc.

    1,200        146,400  

Heineken NV

    1,100        110,499  

Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd.

    4,100        109,726  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    6,600        718,542  

Pernod Ricard SA (A)

    983        160,598  

Treasury Wine Estates, Ltd.

    1,152        14,826  
    

 

 

 
       2,905,995  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.9%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    6,700        620,755  

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (B)

    808        100,313  

Alkermes PLC (B)

    643        26,466  

Amgen, Inc.

    2,533        467,566  

Biogen, Inc. (B)

    1,000        290,240  

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc. (B)

    1,100        103,620  

Celgene Corp. (B)

    3,800        301,796  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Biotechnology (continued)  

CSL, Ltd.

    1,863        $   265,568  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    6,500        460,460  

Grifols SA (A)

    588        17,702  

Incyte Corp. (B)

    1,300        87,100  

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (B)

    400        137,996  

Shire PLC

    3,691        207,757  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (B)

    1,100        186,956  
    

 

 

 
       3,274,295  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.2%  

Assa Abloy AB, B Shares

    4,407        93,929  

Cie de Saint-Gobain

    1,980        88,490  

Daikin Industries, Ltd.

    1,000        119,857  

Geberit AG

    200        86,014  

Johnson Controls International PLC

    4,300        143,835  

LIXIL Group Corp.

    1,400        28,021  
    

 

 

 
       560,146  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.3%  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    1,000        139,880  

Amundi SA (G)

    700        48,508  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    5,000        269,650  

BlackRock, Inc.

    500        249,520  

Brookfield Asset Management, Inc., Class A

    3,800        154,151  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    5,000        255,500  

CI Financial Corp.

    2,400        43,138  

CME Group, Inc.

    1,670        273,746  

Credit Suisse Group AG (B)

    12,128        183,090  

Daiwa Securities Group, Inc.

    7,000        40,673  

Deutsche Bank AG

    8,226        88,589  

Deutsche Boerse AG

    586        78,116  

Franklin Resources, Inc.

    3,400        108,970  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    1,700        374,969  

Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, Ltd.

    4,200        126,338  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    3,200        235,360  

Invesco, Ltd.

    1,500        39,840  

Japan Exchange Group, Inc.

    2,000        37,195  

London Stock Exchange Group PLC

    1,500        88,509  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    1,200        109,809  

Moody’s Corp.

    1,000        170,560  

Morgan Stanley

    6,300        298,620  

Natixis SA

    7,300        51,815  

Nomura Holdings, Inc.

    15,400        74,861  

Partners Group Holding AG

    100        73,463  

Quilter PLC (B) (G)

    1        1  

S&P Global, Inc.

    1,100        224,279  

Schroders PLC

    1,300        54,181  

State Street Corp.

    1,900        176,871  

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    1,500        174,135  

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.

    2,000        109,540  

UBS Group AG (B)

    16,124        249,521  
    

 

 

 
       4,603,398  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 1.1%  

Air Liquide SA

    1,754        220,604  

Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.

    1,600        249,168  

Air Water, Inc.

    2,000        36,743  

Akzo Nobel NV

    1,323        113,279  

Asahi Kasei Corp.

    5,000        63,587  

BASF SE

    3,931        376,018  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Chemicals (continued)  

Celanese Corp., Series A

    800        $   88,848  

Covestro AG (G)

    100        8,924  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    10,058        663,023  

Eastman Chemical Co.

    600        59,976  

Ecolab, Inc.

    600        84,198  

EMS-Chemie Holding AG (B)

    200        128,547  

FMC Corp.

    600        53,526  

Frutarom Industries, Ltd.

    100        9,835  

Givaudan SA

    3        6,822  

Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.

    700        14,131  

Incitec Pivot, Ltd.

    7,463        20,049  

Israel Chemicals, Ltd.

    3,656        16,750  

Johnson Matthey PLC

    33        1,576  

JSR Corp.

    600        10,221  

Kansai Paint Co., Ltd.

    1,300        27,030  

Koninklijke DSM NV

    1,052        105,801  

LANXESS AG

    1,000        78,009  

Linde AG

    812        169,595  

LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A

    1,326        145,661  

Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp.

    6,000        50,259  

Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Co., Inc.

    1,000        22,671  

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.

    800        21,316  

Mosaic Co.

    2,000        56,100  

Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd.

    1,000        46,697  

Nitto Denko Corp.

    700        53,002  

Novozymes A/S, Class B

    1,430        72,554  

Nutrien, Ltd.

    2,372        129,042  

Orica, Ltd.

    841        11,047  

PPG Industries, Inc.

    800        82,984  

Praxair, Inc.

    1,100        173,965  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    600        244,542  

Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.

    1,400        124,845  

Sika AG

    300        41,624  

Solvay SA

    297        37,510  

Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.

    5,000        28,361  

Toray Industries, Inc.

    5,000        39,471  

Umicore SA

    586        33,635  

Yara International ASA

    701        29,092  
    

 

 

 
       4,050,638  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.1%  

Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.

    1,500        33,586  

Edenred

    711        22,468  

G4S PLC

    15,300        54,054  

Republic Services, Inc.

    1,400        95,704  

Secom Co., Ltd.

    800        61,470  

Stericycle, Inc. (B)

    600        39,174  

Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.

    2,000        15,680  

Waste Management, Inc.

    1,900        154,546  
    

 

 

 
       476,682  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.4%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    18,200        783,146  

F5 Networks, Inc. (B)

    500        86,225  

Juniper Networks, Inc.

    1,800        49,356  

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

    2,213        257,527  

Nokia OYJ

    21,559        124,121  

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, B Shares

    10,276        79,461  
    

 

 

 
       1,379,836  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Construction & Engineering - 0.2%  

Bouygues SA

    792        $   34,138  

CIMIC Group, Ltd.

    1,787        55,940  

Ferrovial SA

    2,951        60,567  

Fluor Corp.

    600        29,268  

HOCHTIEF AG

    300        54,233  

JGC Corp.

    1,300        26,220  

Obayashi Corp.

    2,800        29,159  

SNC-Lavalin Group, Inc. (A)

    800        35,331  

Taisei Corp.

    1,040        57,394  

Vinci SA

    2,296        220,829  
    

 

 

 
       603,079  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.1%  

Boral, Ltd.

    3,696        17,861  

CRH PLC

    3,021        107,073  

Fletcher Building, Ltd.

    3,832        18,038  

HeidelbergCement AG

    650        54,714  

Imerys SA

    300        24,261  

James Hardie Industries PLC, CDI

    700        11,749  

LafargeHolcim, Ltd. (B)

    1,394        68,102  

Taiheiyo Cement Corp.

    800        26,338  
    

 

 

 
       328,136  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.2%  

Acom Co., Ltd.

    1,300        5,002  

American Express Co.

    3,800        372,400  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    2,500        229,750  

Credit Saison Co., Ltd.

    600        9,451  

Synchrony Financial

    4,543        151,646  
    

 

 

 
       768,249  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.1%  

Amcor, Ltd.

    610        6,505  

CCL Industries, Inc., Class B

    1,000        49,024  

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC

    800        32,418  

Toyo Seikan Group Holdings, Ltd.

    1,600        28,123  

WestRock Co.

    1,400        79,828  
    

 

 

 
       195,898  
    

 

 

 
Distributors - 0.0% (H)  

Genuine Parts Co.

    600        55,074  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.0% (H)  

Benesse Holdings, Inc.

    300        10,649  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.3%  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (B)

    4,700        877,255  

Groupe Bruxelles Lambert SA

    429        45,249  

Investor AB, B Shares

    1,891        77,040  

Kinnevik AB, B Shares

    699        23,951  

Onex Corp.

    100        7,340  

ORIX Corp.

    5,460        86,401  

Wendel SA

    200        27,560  
    

 

 

 
       1,144,796  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.9%  

AT&T, Inc.

    30,359        974,827  

BCE, Inc.

    1,149        46,532  

Bezeq Israeli Telecommunication Corp., Ltd.

    12,438        14,018  

BT Group PLC

    33,088        95,109  

Deutsche Telekom AG (B)

    14,611        226,422  

Elisa OYJ

    564        26,128  

Koninklijke KPN NV

    13,289        36,159  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Diversified Telecommunication Services (continued)  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    2,900        $   131,910  

Orange SA

    8,100        135,692  

PCCW, Ltd.

    36,000        20,281  

Proximus SADP

    242        5,457  

Singapore Telecommunications, Ltd.

    31,000        70,077  

Spark New Zealand, Ltd.

    4,216        10,651  

Swisscom AG

    129        57,733  

Telecom Italia SpA (B)

    49,323        36,714  

Telecom Italia SpA

    1,422        929  

Telefonica SA

    17,172        145,969  

Telenor ASA

    2,858        58,656  

Telia Co. AB

    10,340        47,286  

Telstra Corp., Ltd.

    15,830        30,693  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    17,493        880,073  
    

 

 

 
       3,051,316  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.7%  

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

    2,000        138,500  

Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc.

    2,300        34,506  

Chugoku Electric Power Co., Inc.

    1,700        21,988  

CK Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd.

    2,000        14,824  

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

    8,500        91,548  

Duke Energy Corp.

    3,296        260,648  

EDP - Energias de Portugal SA

    10,120        40,182  

Electricite de France SA

    1,316        18,104  

Enel SpA

    30,044        166,901  

Entergy Corp.

    600        48,474  

Eversource Energy

    2,461        144,239  

Exelon Corp.

    3,078        131,123  

FirstEnergy Corp.

    1,066        38,280  

Fortis, Inc.

    1,300        41,552  

Fortum OYJ

    1,387        33,108  

HK Electric Investments & HK Electric Investments, Ltd. (A) (G)

    1,000        956  

Hydro One, Ltd. (G)

    2,900        44,206  

Iberdrola SA

    25,845        199,924  

Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc.

    2,700        39,409  

Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc.

    3,500        39,073  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    1,700        283,951  

Orsted A/S (G)

    700        42,351  

PG&E Corp.

    3,100        131,936  

Power Assets Holdings, Ltd.

    5,000        34,956  

PPL Corp.

    2,900        82,795  

Southern Co.

    3,100        143,561  

SSE PLC

    4,598        82,224  

Terna Rete Elettrica Nazionale SpA (A)

    4,800        25,964  

Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc.

    1,300        15,887  
    

 

 

 
       2,391,170  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.4%  

ABB, Ltd.

    7,949        174,263  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    1,994        149,032  

Emerson Electric Co.

    2,700        186,678  

Legrand SA

    1,171        86,015  

Melrose Industries PLC

    19,063        53,512  

Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

    8,000        106,544  

Nidec Corp.

    1,000        150,160  

OSRAM Licht AG

    351        14,346  

Prysmian SpA

    896        22,319  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Electrical Equipment (continued)  

Rockwell Automation, Inc.

    500        $   83,115  

Schneider Electric SE

    1,982        165,307  

Vestas Wind Systems A/S

    1,000        61,913  
    

 

 

 
       1,253,204  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.3%  

Alps Electric Co., Ltd.

    600        15,423  

Amphenol Corp., Class A

    1,200        104,580  

Hexagon AB, B Shares

    1,072        59,783  

Hirose Electric Co., Ltd.

    315        39,064  

Hitachi High-Technologies Corp.

    500        20,413  

Hitachi, Ltd.

    17,800        125,660  

Keyence Corp.

    400        226,022  

Kyocera Corp.

    1,200        67,709  

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    700        117,726  

Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.

    300        8,346  

Omron Corp.

    600        28,018  

TDK Corp.

    500        51,122  

TE Connectivity, Ltd.

    800        72,048  

Venture Corp., Ltd.

    1,000        13,094  

Yaskawa Electric Corp.

    1,100        38,897  
    

 

 

 
       987,905  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.2%  

Baker Hughes a GE Co.

    3,000        99,090  

Halliburton Co.

    3,900        175,734  

Schlumberger, Ltd.

    5,129        343,797  

TechnipFMC PLC

    2,662        84,492  

Tenaris SA

    3,718        68,232  
    

 

 

 
       771,345  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 0.9%  

American Tower Corp.

    1,935        278,969  

Ascendas Real Estate Investment Trust

    8,000        15,501  

Boston Properties, Inc.

    1,200        150,504  

British Land Co. PLC

    8,400        74,520  

CapitaLand Commercial Trust

    11,000        13,402  

CapitaLand Mall Trust

    1,000        1,519  

Covivio

    400        41,620  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    1,500        161,730  

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

    500        55,790  

Equinix, Inc.

    300        128,967  

Essex Property Trust, Inc.

    269        64,310  

Federal Realty Investment Trust

    500        63,275  

Gecina SA

    5        837  

GGP, Inc.

    6,114        124,909  

HCP, Inc.

    3,100        80,042  

Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

    7,000        147,490  

Japan Retail Fund Investment Corp.

    25        45,071  

Kimco Realty Corp.

    1,900        32,281  

Klepierre SA

    1,069        40,260  

Land Securities Group PLC

    3,979        50,250  

Link REIT

    10,500        95,891  

Macerich Co.

    600        34,098  

Mirvac Group

    4,600        7,387  

Nippon Building Fund, Inc. (A)

    4        23,086  

Prologis, Inc.

    200        13,138  

Public Storage

    1,000        226,860  

RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust

    1,500        27,555  

SBA Communications Corp. (B)

    700        115,584  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (continued)  

Scentre Group

    31,774        $   103,228  

Simon Property Group, Inc.

    1,413        240,479  

SL Green Realty Corp.

    700        70,371  

Stockland

    15,671        46,041  

Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust

    14,000        17,776  

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (B)

    147        32,271  

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield

    369        81,250  

Ventas, Inc.

    2,200        125,290  

VEREIT, Inc.

    3,301        24,559  

Vornado Realty Trust

    1,300        96,096  

Welltower, Inc.

    2,000        125,380  

Weyerhaeuser Co.

    6,300        229,698  
    

 

 

 
       3,307,285  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.6%  

Aeon Co., Ltd.

    2,200        47,094  

Alimentation Couche-Tard, Inc., Class B

    1,900        82,538  

Carrefour SA

    1,400        22,676  

Colruyt SA

    300        17,121  

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    2,100        438,858  

Dairy Farm International Holdings, Ltd.

    1,000        8,790  

FamilyMart UNY Holdings Co., Ltd.

    300        31,595  

George Weston, Ltd. (A)

    400        32,635  

Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA

    1,149        16,598  

Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize NV

    4,421        105,864  

Kroger Co.

    3,200        91,040  

Lawson, Inc.

    500        31,251  

Loblaw Cos., Ltd.

    909        46,741  

Metro, Inc.

    200        6,799  

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.

    3,200        139,631  

Tesco PLC

    34,088        115,483  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    3,700        222,056  

Walmart, Inc.

    6,200        531,030  

Wesfarmers, Ltd.

    4,891        178,663  

Woolworths Group, Ltd.

    5,314        120,024  
    

 

 

 
       2,286,487  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.7%  

a2 Milk Co., Ltd. (B)

    2,100        16,300  

Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

    3,000        56,794  

Bunge, Ltd.

    600        41,826  

Campbell Soup Co.

    1,100        44,594  

Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Spruengli AG

    1        76,139  

Conagra Brands, Inc.

    1,500        53,595  

Danone SA

    2,555        187,587  

Golden Agri-Resources, Ltd.

    16,000        3,582  

Hormel Foods Corp. (A)

    3,400        126,514  

J.M. Smucker, Co.

    500        53,740  

Kerry Group PLC, Class A

    630        65,920  

Kikkoman Corp.

    1,000        50,490  

Kraft Heinz Co.

    2,033        127,713  

Marine Harvest ASA

    1,700        33,857  

MEIJI Holdings Co., Ltd.

    600        50,616  

Mondelez International, Inc., Class A

    6,100        250,100  

Nestle SA

    11,462        890,061  

Orkla ASA

    3,187        27,940  

Saputo, Inc.

    1,000        33,203  

Toyo Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.

    1,000        35,632  

WH Group, Ltd. (G)

    24,000        19,547  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Food Products (continued)  

Wilmar International, Ltd.

    8,000        $   17,967  

Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.

    600        40,103  
    

 

 

 
       2,303,820  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.1%  

APA Group

    4,694        34,217  

Gas Natural SDG SA

    2,960        78,398  

Hong Kong & China Gas Co., Ltd.

    33,426        63,992  

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd.

    1,400        28,989  

Toho Gas Co., Ltd.

    720        24,940  

Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd.

    1,800        47,806  
    

 

 

 
       278,342  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.9%  

Abbott Laboratories

    8,528        520,123  

Baxter International, Inc.

    2,000        147,680  

Becton Dickinson and Co.

    900        215,604  

Boston Scientific Corp. (B)

    5,400        176,580  

Danaher Corp.

    2,100        207,228  

DENTSPLY SIRONA, Inc.

    2,100        91,917  

Edwards Lifesciences Corp. (B)

    800        116,456  

Essilor International Cie Generale d’Optique SA

    964        136,104  

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp., Ltd.

    2,400        24,204  

Hoya Corp.

    1,600        91,030  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (B)

    600        287,088  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    3,632        154,495  

Medtronic PLC

    5,712        489,004  

Olympus Corp.

    1,200        44,980  

Siemens Healthineers AG (B) (G)

    1,000        41,288  

Smith & Nephew PLC

    2,200        40,590  

Stryker Corp.

    1,300        219,518  

Sysmex Corp.

    600        56,036  

Terumo Corp.

    1,400        80,296  

William Demant Holding A/S (A) (B)

    1,400        56,352  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    1,200        133,728  
    

 

 

 
       3,330,301  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.9%  

Aetna, Inc.

    1,600        293,600  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    1,000        85,270  

Anthem, Inc.

    900        214,227  

Cigna Corp.

    1,300        220,935  

CVS Health Corp.

    4,700        302,445  

DaVita, Inc. (B)

    1,200        83,328  

Express Scripts Holding Co. (B)

    2,928        226,071  

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

    1,268        127,909  

Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA

    1,644        132,086  

HCA Healthcare, Inc.

    1,300        133,380  

Humana, Inc.

    600        178,578  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings (B)

    400        71,812  

McKesson Corp.

    1,000        133,400  

Medipal Holdings Corp.

    900        18,111  

Ryman Healthcare, Ltd.

    1,600        12,972  

Sonic Healthcare, Ltd.

    3,610        65,534  

Suzuken Co., Ltd.

    100        4,236  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    3,600        883,224  
    

 

 

 
       3,187,118  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 0.0% (H)  

M3, Inc.

    800        31,902  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.7%  

Accor SA

    500        $   24,536  

Aristocrat Leisure, Ltd.

    3,600        82,323  

Carnival PLC

    1,600        91,791  

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (B)

    136        58,666  

Compass Group PLC

    7,057        150,739  

Crown Resorts, Ltd.

    2,958        29,552  

Galaxy Entertainment Group, Ltd.

    11,400        88,272  

Genting Singapore, Ltd.

    36,000        32,235  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    900        71,244  

Las Vegas Sands Corp.

    2,300        175,628  

Marriott International, Inc., Class A

    1,300        164,580  

McDonald’s Corp.

    3,400        532,746  

McDonald’s Holdings Co. Japan, Ltd. (A)

    400        20,413  

MGM China Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    10,000        23,198  

Oriental Land Co., Ltd.

    800        84,000  

Paddy Power Betfair PLC

    368        40,826  

Restaurant Brands International, Inc.

    1,000        60,320  

Sands China, Ltd.

    10,000        53,469  

Starbucks Corp.

    6,700        327,295  

TUI AG

    2,000        43,882  

Whitbread PLC

    1,300        67,924  

Wynn Macau, Ltd.

    9,161        29,483  

Wynn Resorts, Ltd.

    625        104,588  

Yum! Brands, Inc.

    1,700        132,974  
    

 

 

 
       2,490,684  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.2%  

Electrolux AB, Series B

    977        22,252  

Garmin, Ltd.

    800        48,800  

Iida Group Holdings Co., Ltd.

    1,600        30,883  

Newell Brands, Inc.

    1,700        43,843  

Panasonic Corp.

    9,500        128,151  

Rinnai Corp.

    200        17,649  

Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.

    900        15,348  

Sekisui House, Ltd.

    3,000        53,109  

Sharp Corp.

    600        14,632  

Sony Corp.

    4,900        250,676  

Techtronic Industries Co., Ltd.

    1,912        10,662  
    

 

 

 
       636,005  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.5%  

Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

    1,800        95,688  

Clorox Co.

    600        81,150  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    3,400        220,354  

Essity AB, Class B

    2,423        59,840  

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

    564        62,735  

Kimberly-Clark Corp.

    1,400        147,476  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    9,400        733,764  

Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC

    2,937        241,830  

Unicharm Corp.

    1,500        45,157  
    

 

 

 
       1,687,994  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.0% (H)  

AES Corp.

    3,000        40,230  

Meridian Energy, Ltd.

    7,600        16,060  
    

 

 

 
       56,290  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.7%  

3M Co.

    2,800        550,816  

CK Hutchison Holdings, Ltd.

    12,156        128,910  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Industrial Conglomerates (continued)  

General Electric Co.

    36,005        $   490,028  

Honeywell International, Inc.

    3,300        475,365  

Jardine Matheson Holdings, Ltd.

    1,100        69,410  

Jardine Strategic Holdings, Ltd.

    1,000        36,480  

Keppel Corp., Ltd.

    5,200        27,288  

Roper Technologies, Inc.

    400        110,364  

Seibu Holdings, Inc.

    1,300        21,934  

Sembcorp Industries, Ltd.

    8,000        16,147  

Siemens AG

    2,819        372,723  

Smiths Group PLC

    3,680        82,467  

Toshiba Corp. (B)

    25,500        76,697  
    

 

 

 
       2,458,629  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 1.4%  

Ageas

    501        25,281  

AIA Group, Ltd.

    44,600        389,972  

Allianz SE

    1,904        393,603  

Allstate Corp.

    1,200        109,524  

American International Group, Inc.

    5,920        313,878  

Arch Capital Group, Ltd. (B)

    900        23,814  

Assicurazioni Generali SpA

    4,281        71,841  

Aviva PLC

    17,697        117,712  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (B)

    363        14,545  

Chubb, Ltd.

    1,821        231,303  

CNP Assurances

    2,400        54,625  

Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc.

    4,700        83,884  

Direct Line Insurance Group PLC

    700        3,168  

Everest Re Group, Ltd.

    100        23,048  

Fairfax Financial Holdings, Ltd.

    100        56,035  

Great-West Lifeco, Inc.

    1,000        24,585  

Hannover Rueck SE

    200        24,944  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    1,800        92,034  

Insurance Australia Group, Ltd.

    14,101        89,014  

Japan Post Holdings Co., Ltd.

    6,400        70,119  

Legal & General Group PLC

    24,800        87,061  

Lincoln National Corp.

    400        24,900  

Loews Corp.

    2,700        130,356  

Manulife Financial Corp.

    7,900        141,937  

Mapfre SA

    2,680        8,090  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    2,000        163,940  

MetLife, Inc.

    4,000        174,400  

MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, Inc.

    2,100        65,325  

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG

    631        133,413  

NN Group NV

    2,600        105,784  

Poste Italiane SpA (G)

    3,200        26,794  

Power Corp. of Canada

    600        13,436  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    1,400        74,130  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    2,000        187,020  

Prudential PLC

    11,309        258,875  

RenaissanceRe Holdings, Ltd.

    200        24,064  

Sampo OYJ, Class A

    1,811        88,402  

SCOR SE

    1,574        58,489  

Sompo Holdings, Inc.

    1,700        68,789  

Sun Life Financial, Inc.

    2,500        100,464  

Suncorp Group, Ltd.

    4,800        51,827  

Swiss Re AG

    1,463        126,607  

T&D Holdings, Inc.

    2,100        31,572  

Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.

    3,100        145,403  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Travelers Cos., Inc.

    1,600        $   195,744  

XL Group, Ltd.

    2,500        139,875  

Zurich Insurance Group AG

    709        210,559  
    

 

 

 
       5,050,185  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.0% (H)  

Zalando SE (B) (G)

    1,100        61,493  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 1.0%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (B)

    1,500        2,549,700  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (B)

    200        405,418  

Netflix, Inc. (B)

    1,600        626,288  

Qurate Retail, Inc., Class A (B)

    2,000        42,440  

Start Today Co., Ltd.

    800        29,011  
    

 

 

 
       3,652,857  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 1.4%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (B)

    1,200        1,355,028  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (B)

    1,203        1,342,127  

eBay, Inc. (B)

    4,200        152,292  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (B)

    8,845        1,718,760  

REA Group, Ltd.

    400        26,899  

Shopify, Inc., Class A (B)

    300        43,748  

Twitter, Inc. (B)

    4,828        210,839  

United Internet AG

    300        17,188  

Yahoo Japan Corp. (A)

    10,300        34,236  
    

 

 

 
       4,901,117  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 1.2%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    2,300        376,257  

Amadeus IT Group SA

    1,607        126,862  

Atos SE

    313        42,748  

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.

    2,100        281,694  

Capgemini SE

    792        106,548  

CGI Group, Inc., Class A (B)

    1,300        82,382  

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A

    3,200        252,768  

Computershare, Ltd.

    1,370        18,685  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    1,100        116,633  

Fiserv, Inc. (B)

    2,000        148,180  

FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (B)

    400        84,260  

Fujitsu, Ltd.

    7,000        42,475  

International Business Machines Corp.

    3,500        488,950  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    4,000        786,080  

NTT Data Corp.

    2,955        34,057  

Paychex, Inc.

    300        20,505  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (B)

    4,200        349,734  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    7,200        953,640  

Western Union Co.

    2,100        42,693  

Wirecard AG

    300        48,329  
    

 

 

 
       4,403,480  
    

 

 

 
Leisure Products - 0.1%  

Mattel, Inc. (A)

    2,600        42,692  

Sankyo Co., Ltd.

    300        11,746  

Sega Sammy Holdings, Inc.

    2,200        37,715  

Shimano, Inc. (A)

    300        44,059  

Yamaha Corp.

    700        36,418  
    

 

 

 
       172,630  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.2%  

Illumina, Inc. (B)

    500        139,645  

Lonza Group AG (B)

    342        91,000  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Life Sciences Tools & Services (continued)  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    1,500        $   310,710  
    

 

 

 
       541,355  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 0.8%  

Alfa Laval AB

    700        16,615  

Andritz AG

    200        10,618  

Atlas Copco AB, A Shares

    3,127        91,051  

Atlas Copco AB, B Shares

    1,598        41,865  

Caterpillar, Inc.

    2,300        312,041  

CNH Industrial NV

    3,146        33,418  

Deere & Co.

    1,600        223,680  

Dover Corp.

    1,300        95,160  

Epiroc AB (B)

    4,725        47,444  

FANUC Corp.

    800        159,003  

Fortive Corp.

    2,150        165,786  

Hino Motors, Ltd.

    2,000        21,370  

Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.

    200        6,503  

Hoshizaki Corp.

    300        30,375  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    1,800        249,372  

JTEKT Corp.

    1,200        16,345  

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    700        20,643  

Komatsu, Ltd.

    4,000        114,456  

Kone OYJ, Class B

    1,488        75,867  

Kubota Corp.

    5,000        78,716  

Kurita Water Industries, Ltd.

    500        14,271  

Makita Corp.

    600        26,907  

MAN SE

    400        45,287  

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    1,500        54,613  

Nabtesco Corp.

    600        18,480  

NGK Insulators, Ltd.

    1,400        24,949  

NSK, Ltd.

    2,000        20,648  

PACCAR, Inc.

    2,800        173,488  

Pentair PLC

    263        11,067  

Sandvik AB

    5,023        89,168  

SMC Corp.

    200        73,396  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    500        66,405  

Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    800        27,024  

Volvo AB, Class B

    7,096        113,450  

Wartsila OYJ Abp

    1,761        34,611  

Weir Group PLC

    2,900        76,546  
    

 

 

 
       2,680,638  
    

 

 

 
Marine - 0.0% (H)  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B

    30        37,373  

Keuhne & Nagel International AG

    443        66,743  

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.

    700        16,869  

Nippon Yusen KK

    1,100        21,848  
    

 

 

 
       142,833  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.0%  

Axel Springer SE

    700        50,642  

CBS Corp., Class B

    1,500        84,330  

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A (B)

    863        253,040  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    20,800        682,448  

Dentsu, Inc. (A)

    1,300        61,645  

Discovery, Inc., Class A (A) (B)

    2,000        55,000  

Discovery, Inc., Class C (B)

    2,952        75,276  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (B)

    3,200        107,552  

Eutelsat Communications SA

    1,278        26,513  

Informa PLC

    4,644        51,177  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Media (continued)  

JCDecaux SA

    15        $   502  

Liberty Global PLC, Class A (B)

    2,200        60,588  

Liberty Global PLC, Series C (B)

    2,200        58,542  

Liberty Media Corp. - Liberty SiriusXM, Class A (B)

    600        27,030  

Liberty Media Corp. - Liberty SiriusXM, Class C (B)

    1,200        54,432  

News Corp., Class A

    1,524        23,622  

Omnicom Group, Inc.

    2,300        175,421  

Pearson PLC (A)

    7,530        87,949  

Publicis Groupe SA

    701        48,250  

Shaw Communications, Inc., Class B

    2,300        46,852  

Singapore Press Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    7,000        13,358  

Sirius XM Holdings, Inc. (A)

    6,832        46,253  

Sky PLC

    4,495        86,700  

Telenet Group Holding NV (B)

    200        9,342  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A

    4,100        203,729  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class B

    3,400        167,518  

Vivendi SA

    5,666        138,952  

Walt Disney Co.

    5,600        586,936  

WPP PLC

    5,810        91,476  
    

 

 

 
       3,375,075  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.7%  

Agnico Eagle Mines, Ltd.

    1,300        59,598  

Anglo American PLC (A)

    4,851        108,503  

Antofagasta PLC

    5,815        75,976  

ArcelorMittal

    519        15,219  

Barrick Gold Corp. (A)

    4,200        55,174  

BHP Billiton PLC

    7,679        172,892  

BHP Billiton, Ltd.

    13,601        341,318  

Boliden AB

    1,192        38,674  

First Quantum Minerals, Ltd.

    3,948        58,170  

Fortescue Metals Group, Ltd. (A)

    24,092        78,270  

Franco-Nevada Corp.

    1,100        80,284  

Glencore PLC (B)

    56,702        270,894  

JFE Holdings, Inc.

    2,100        39,756  

Kinross Gold Corp. (B)

    6,433        24,222  

Kobe Steel, Ltd.

    900        8,243  

Newcrest Mining, Ltd.

    3,252        52,465  

Newmont Mining Corp.

    6,400        241,344  

Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corp.

    3,100        60,914  

Norsk Hydro ASA

    5,754        34,470  

Nucor Corp.

    2,400        150,000  

Rio Tinto PLC

    4,842        268,454  

Rio Tinto, Ltd.

    1,626        100,405  

South32, Ltd.

    13,380        35,746  

Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd.

    1,000        38,278  

Teck Resources, Ltd., Class B

    2,100        53,496  

thyssenkrupp AG

    2,686        65,306  

Turquoise Hill Resources, Ltd. (B)

    16,445        46,534  

voestalpine AG

    363        16,723  
    

 

 

 
       2,591,328  
    

 

 

 
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts - 0.0% (H)  

AGNC Investment Corp.

    1,500        27,885  

Annaly Capital Management, Inc.

    600        6,174  
    

 

 

 
       34,059  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Multi-Utilities - 0.5%  

AGL Energy, Ltd.

    3,330        $   55,399  

Ameren Corp.

    1,100        66,935  

Canadian Utilities, Ltd., Class A

    600        15,152  

CenterPoint Energy, Inc.

    1,900        52,649  

Centrica PLC

    21,915        45,596  

CMS Energy Corp.

    3,100        146,568  

Consolidated Edison, Inc.

    1,600        124,768  

Dominion Energy, Inc.

    2,400        163,632  

DTE Energy Co.

    700        72,541  

E.ON SE

    8,854        94,650  

Engie SA

    7,410        113,619  

Innogy SE (G)

    1,100        47,131  

National Grid PLC

    15,210        168,295  

Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.

    2,800        151,592  

RWE AG

    1,736        39,583  

SCANA Corp.

    1,500        57,780  

Sempra Energy

    600        69,666  

Veolia Environnement SA

    2,882        61,692  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    2,600        168,090  
    

 

 

 
       1,715,338  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.2%  

Canadian Tire Corp., Ltd., Class A

    400        52,211  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (B)

    973        82,705  

Dollarama, Inc.

    1,200        46,516  

Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings, Ltd.

    1,200        15,001  

Kohl’s Corp.

    800        58,320  

Macy’s, Inc.

    3,200        119,776  

Marks & Spencer Group PLC

    13,300        51,798  

Nordstrom, Inc.

    700        36,246  

Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd.

    95        33,464  

Target Corp.

    2,300        175,076  
    

 

 

 
       671,113  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.6%  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    741        54,278  

Apache Corp.

    3,400        158,950  

BP PLC

    71,068        542,399  

Canadian Natural Resources, Ltd.

    4,700        169,638  

Chevron Corp.

    7,000        885,010  

ConocoPhillips

    5,300        368,986  

Crescent Point Energy Corp. (A)

    4,600        33,801  

Devon Energy Corp.

    4,400        193,424  

Enagas SA

    700        20,469  

Enbridge, Inc.

    6,100        218,081  

Encana Corp. (A)

    3,100        40,488  

Eni SpA

    10,808        200,759  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    2,200        273,746  

EQT Corp.

    600        33,108  

Equinor ASA

    4,735        125,812  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    17,115        1,415,924  

Galp Energia SGPS SA

    2,135        40,727  

Hess Corp.

    3,000        200,670  

Husky Energy, Inc. (A)

    1,700        26,496  

Imperial Oil, Ltd.

    900        29,917  

Inpex Corp.

    3,200        33,224  

JXTG Holdings, Inc.

    15,650        108,871  

Keyera Corp. (A)

    600        16,695  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.

    8,156        144,117  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Lundin Petroleum AB

    596        $   19,011  

Marathon Oil Corp.

    1,600        33,376  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.

    2,000        140,320  

Neste OYJ

    497        39,003  

Noble Energy, Inc.

    2,600        91,728  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    2,900        242,672  

Oil Search, Ltd.

    8,200        54,009  

OMV AG

    597        33,862  

ONEOK, Inc.

    2,500        174,575  

Origin Energy, Ltd. (B)

    8,100        60,124  

Pembina Pipeline Corp. (A)

    1,900        65,802  

Phillips 66

    2,500        280,775  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    500        94,620  

PrairieSky Royalty, Ltd.

    94        1,855  

Repsol SA

    5,028        98,439  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A

    16,481        571,829  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B

    14,528        520,268  

Santos, Ltd. (B)

    4,052        18,802  

Seven Generations Energy, Ltd., Class A (B)

    1,500        16,533  

Showa Shell Sekiyu KK

    200        2,986  

Suncor Energy, Inc.

    6,100        248,241  

TOTAL SA

    8,876        541,177  

Tourmaline Oil Corp. (A)

    1,724        30,804  

TransCanada Corp. (A)

    4,000        173,065  

Valero Energy Corp.

    1,600        177,328  

Vermilion Energy, Inc.

    500        18,031  

Williams Cos., Inc.

    400        10,844  

Woodside Petroleum, Ltd. (A)

    3,611        94,760  
    

 

 

 
       9,190,429  
    

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products - 0.0% (H)  

Mondi PLC

    200        5,414  

Stora Enso OYJ, Class R

    1,863        36,463  

UPM-Kymmene OYJ

    2,088        74,663  
    

 

 

 
       116,540  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 0.3%  

Beiersdorf AG

    86        9,766  

Coty, Inc., Class A

    2,253        31,767  

Kao Corp.

    2,200        167,909  

L’Oreal SA

    886        218,833  

Shiseido Co., Ltd.

    1,600        127,144  

Unilever NV, CVA

    6,902        385,154  

Unilever PLC

    4,438        245,528  
    

 

 

 
       1,186,101  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 2.2%  

Allergan PLC

    1,368        228,073  

Astellas Pharma, Inc.

    7,300        111,364  

AstraZeneca PLC

    5,530        383,375  

Bayer AG

    3,835        422,548  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    7,300        403,982  

Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    700        36,734  

Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd.

    2,400        91,847  

Eisai Co., Ltd.

    900        63,439  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    3,800        324,254  

GlaxoSmithKline PLC

    18,369        370,862  

Johnson & Johnson

    9,894        1,200,538  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    10,000        607,000  

Novartis AG

    9,228        701,488  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Pharmaceuticals (continued)  

Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B

    7,330        $   340,078  

Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    2,000        46,913  

Orion OYJ, Class B

    352        9,491  

Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd. (A)

    1,800        87,208  

Perrigo Co. PLC

    588        42,871  

Pfizer, Inc.

    22,000        798,160  

Recordati SpA (E)

    100        3,978  

Roche Holding AG

    2,625        584,614  

Sanofi

    4,464        357,876  

Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

    1,400        71,963  

Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings Co., Ltd.

    201        23,547  

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (A)

    3,300        139,434  

UCB SA

    505        39,713  

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (B)

    1,400        32,587  

Zoetis, Inc.

    1,900        161,861  
    

 

 

 
       7,685,798  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 0.2%  

Experian PLC

    3,140        77,680  

Intertek Group PLC

    1,100        82,981  

Randstad NV

    800        47,104  

Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.

    5,100        141,233  

RELX NV

    5,546        118,295  

RELX PLC

    6,093        130,469  

SGS SA

    28        74,701  
    

 

 

 
       672,463  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.3%  

Azrieli Group, Ltd.

    200        9,941  

CapitaLand, Ltd.

    11,000        25,512  

City Developments, Ltd.

    2,362        18,948  

CK Asset Holdings, Ltd.

    12,156        96,528  

Daito Trust Construction Co., Ltd.

    300        48,801  

Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd.

    2,100        71,622  

Deutsche Wohnen SE

    1,600        77,355  

Henderson Land Development Co., Ltd.

    4,273        22,602  

Hongkong Land Holdings, Ltd.

    5,000        35,750  

Hulic Co., Ltd. (A)

    5,300        56,631  

Hysan Development Co., Ltd.

    389        2,172  

Kerry Properties, Ltd.

    1,000        4,786  

LendLease Group

    4,700        68,904  

Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.

    5,200        90,976  

Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd.

    4,200        101,439  

New World Development Co., Ltd.

    22,000        30,957  

Sino Land Co., Ltd.

    15,200        24,721  

Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd.

    1,900        70,172  

Sun Hung Kai Properties, Ltd.

    7,000        105,639  

Swire Pacific, Ltd., Class A

    2,500        26,480  

Vonovia SE

    2,080        99,007  

Wharf Holdings, Ltd.

    6,000        19,272  

Wharf Real Estate Investment Co., Ltd.

    6,000        42,712  
    

 

 

 
       1,150,927  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.5%  

Canadian National Railway Co.

    2,900        237,202  

Canadian Pacific Railway, Ltd.

    700        128,281  

Central Japan Railway Co.

    618        128,160  

CSX Corp.

    4,400        280,632  

DSV A/S

    915        73,946  

East Japan Railway Co.

    1,400        134,227  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Road & Rail (continued)  

Hankyu Hanshin Holdings, Inc.

    1,100        $   44,262  

Kansas City Southern

    500        52,980  

Keikyu Corp.

    1,500        24,604  

Keisei Electric Railway Co., Ltd.

    800        27,494  

Kintetsu Group Holdings Co., Ltd.

    700        28,578  

MTR Corp., Ltd.

    4,000        22,127  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    800        120,696  

Odakyu Electric Railway Co., Ltd.

    1,000        21,479  

Tobu Railway Co., Ltd.

    800        24,495  

Tokyu Corp.

    1,500        25,850  

Union Pacific Corp.

    3,400        481,712  

West Japan Railway Co.

    720        53,092  
    

 

 

 
       1,909,817  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 1.3%  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    510        48,919  

Applied Materials, Inc.

    5,000        230,950  

ASM Pacific Technology, Ltd.

    1,178        14,894  

ASML Holding NV

    1,328        263,177  

Broadcom, Inc.

    1,750        424,620  

Infineon Technologies AG

    4,149        105,771  

Intel Corp.

    17,300        859,983  

KLA-Tencor Corp.

    700        71,771  

Marvell Technology Group, Ltd.

    2,500        53,600  

Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.

    1,300        76,258  

Micron Technology, Inc. (B)

    4,400        230,736  

NVIDIA Corp.

    2,500        592,250  

NXP Semiconductors NV (B)

    1,500        163,905  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

    7,300        409,676  

Rohm Co., Ltd.

    400        33,600  

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

    1,300        125,645  

STMicroelectronics NV

    3,600        80,340  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    4,200        463,050  

Tokyo Electron, Ltd.

    700        120,255  

Xilinx, Inc.

    1,100        71,786  
    

 

 

 
       4,441,186  
    

 

 

 
Software - 1.9%  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    3,600        274,752  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (B)

    2,100        512,001  

Blackberry, Ltd. (B)

    1,700        16,397  

CA, Inc.

    1,500        53,475  

Citrix Systems, Inc. (B)

    1,300        136,292  

Constellation Software, Inc.

    100        77,553  

Dassault Systemes SE

    500        70,068  

Dell Technologies, Inc., Class V (B)

    824        69,694  

Electronic Arts, Inc. (B)

    1,100        155,122  

Intuit, Inc.

    1,000        204,305  

LINE Corp. (A) (B)

    800        33,347  

Microsoft Corp.

    27,000        2,662,470  

Nexon Co., Ltd. (B)

    2,000        29,066  

Nice, Ltd. (B)

    271        28,047  

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

    400        130,786  

Open Text Corp. (A)

    500        17,598  

Oracle Corp.

    700        57,219  

Oracle Corp.

    14,433        635,918  

Red Hat, Inc. (B)

    600        80,622  

Sage Group PLC

    7,890        65,455  

salesforce.com, Inc. (B)

    3,600        491,040  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Software (continued)  

SAP SE

    3,635        $   420,038  

Symantec Corp.

    6,900        142,485  

Trend Micro, Inc.

    400        22,833  

VMware, Inc., Class A (B)

    900        132,273  

Workday, Inc., Class A (B)

    900        109,008  
    

 

 

 
       6,627,864  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 0.7%  

ABC-Mart, Inc.

    400        21,894  

Fast Retailing Co., Ltd.

    200        91,966  

Gap, Inc.

    4,000        129,560  

Hennes & Mauritz AB, B Shares (A)

    3,974        59,232  

Home Depot, Inc.

    5,000        975,500  

Industria de Diseno Textil SA

    4,560        155,815  

Kingfisher PLC

    10,833        42,462  

L Brands, Inc.

    400        14,752  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    4,500        430,065  

Nitori Holdings Co., Ltd.

    450        70,234  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (B)

    400        109,428  

Tiffany & Co.

    500        65,800  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    2,700        256,986  
    

 

 

 
       2,423,694  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 1.3%  

Apple, Inc.

    18,958        3,509,315  

Brother Industries, Ltd.

    2,200        43,477  

Canon, Inc. (A)

    3,700        121,345  

FUJIFILM Holdings Corp.

    1,700        66,425  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

    7,200        105,192  

HP, Inc.

    7,200        163,368  

Konica Minolta, Inc.

    1,500        13,941  

NEC Corp.

    700        19,221  

NetApp, Inc.

    3,400        267,002  

Seagate Technology PLC

    2,800        158,116  

Western Digital Corp.

    1,538        119,057  

Xerox Corp.

    1,200        28,800  
    

 

 

 
       4,615,259  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 0.6%  

adidas AG

    924        201,728  

Burberry Group PLC

    3,000        85,520  

Cie Financiere Richemont SA

    1,908        162,073  

Gildan Activewear, Inc.

    100        2,817  

Hermes International

    100        61,169  

Kering SA

    340        192,014  

Li & Fung, Ltd.

    20,000        7,342  

Lululemon Athletica, Inc. (B)

    234        29,215  

Luxottica Group SpA

    871        56,208  

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

    1,061        353,373  

Michael Kors Holdings, Ltd. (B)

    830        55,278  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    5,200        414,336  

Pandora A/S

    500        34,937  

Puma SE

    28        16,382  

Ralph Lauren Corp.

    700        88,004  

Swatch Group AG

    446        104,020  

Tapestry, Inc.

    2,400        112,104  
    

 

 

 
       1,976,520  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.5%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    8,700        494,073  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Tobacco (continued)  

British American Tobacco PLC

    9,352        $   472,710  

Imperial Brands PLC

    3,581        133,368  

Japan Tobacco, Inc. (A)

    4,678        130,772  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    7,200        581,328  

Swedish Match AB

    700        34,677  
    

 

 

 
       1,846,928  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.2%  

Ashtead Group PLC

    2,800        83,994  

Bunzl PLC

    2,400        72,692  

Fastenal Co.

    2,700        129,951  

Ferguson PLC

    28        2,272  

Finning International, Inc.

    500        12,342  

ITOCHU Corp.

    6,000        108,793  

Marubeni Corp.

    6,400        48,852  

Mitsubishi Corp.

    5,600        155,686  

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.

    7,400        123,484  

Sumitomo Corp.

    5,500        90,412  
    

 

 

 
       828,478  
    

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure - 0.1%  

Aena SME SA (G)

    300        54,478  

Aeroports de Paris

    224        50,670  

Atlantia SpA

    2,254        66,648  

Auckland International Airport, Ltd.

    4,656        21,381  

Kamigumi Co., Ltd.

    1,000        20,801  

SATS, Ltd.

    4,000        14,679  

Sydney Airport (A)

    4,436        23,505  

Transurban Group

    12,477        110,526  
    

 

 

 
       362,688  
    

 

 

 
Water Utilities - 0.0% (H)  

American Water Works Co., Inc.

    1,100        93,918  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.3%  

KDDI Corp.

    6,754        184,902  

Millicom International Cellular SA, SDR

    429        25,338  

NTT DOCOMO, Inc.

    4,500        114,720  

Rogers Communications, Inc., Class B

    1,700        80,742  

SoftBank Group Corp.

    3,000        216,041  

Sprint Corp. (A) (B)

    15,500        84,320  

Tele2 AB, Class B

    210        2,469  

Vodafone Group PLC

    98,842        239,787  
    

 

 

 
       948,319  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $96,149,875)

 

     148,233,105  
    

 

 

 
PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.1%  
Automobiles - 0.1%  

Porsche Automobil Holding SE,
3.13% (I)

    98        6,244  

Volkswagen AG,
2.71% (I)

    699        116,093  
    

 

 

 
       122,337  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.0% (H)  

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA,
1.65% (I)

    744        95,138  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stocks
(Cost $182,156)

 

     217,475  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 2.1%  
International Equity Fund - 0.1%  

iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF

    7,824        $   410,838  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Fund - 2.0%  

iShares JP Morgan USD Emerging Markets Bond ETF

    66,180        7,066,039  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $7,621,743)

 

     7,476,877  
    

 

 

 
RIGHTS - 0.0% (H)  
Banks - 0.0% (H)  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA, (B) (D) (E)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 07/17/2018

    58,880        0  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.0% (H)  

Repsol SA, (A) (B)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 07/06/2018

    5,028        2,854  
    

 

 

 

Total Rights
(Cost $2,833)

 

     2,854  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 0.3%  

Ally Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A4,
1.60%, 01/15/2021

    $  700,000        692,961  

Synchrony Credit Card Master Note Trust
Series 2016-1, Class A,
2.04%, 03/15/2022

    280,000        279,131  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $979,774)

 

     972,092  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 13.7%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.2%  

Lockheed Martin Corp.
4.07%, 12/15/2042

    185,000        177,991  

Raytheon Co.
2.50%, 12/15/2022

    170,000        164,961  

United Technologies Corp.
4.50%, 06/01/2042

    220,000        217,406  
    

 

 

 
       560,358  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.1%  

United Parcel Service, Inc.
2.45%, 10/01/2022

    170,000        164,725  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.1%  

Ford Motor Co.
4.75%, 01/15/2043

    416,000        359,554  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 2.2%  

Bank of America Corp.

    

4.13%, 01/22/2024, MTN

    825,000        838,579  

Fixed until 01/20/2047, 4.44% (J), 01/20/2048, MTN

    197,000        192,330  

5.63%, 07/01/2020, MTN

    205,000        214,554  

Barclays Bank PLC
5.14%, 10/14/2020

    110,000        112,645  

Barclays PLC
5.25%, 08/17/2045

    200,000        195,209  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

BNP Paribas SA
5.00%, 01/15/2021

    $   85,000        $  88,391  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

3.50%, 05/15/2023

    385,000        376,495  

3.75%, 06/16/2024

    490,000        484,267  

3.88%, 10/25/2023

    848,000        848,070  

6.13%, 08/25/2036

    172,000        194,830  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia
4.32%, 01/10/2048 (G)

    200,000        178,917  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
2.25%, 01/14/2020, MTN

    250,000        246,902  

HSBC Bank USA NA
4.88%, 08/24/2020

    250,000        257,664  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    

2.95%, 05/25/2021

    510,000        502,110  

Fixed until 06/19/2028, 4.58% (J), 06/19/2029

    500,000        505,017  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    

3.38%, 05/01/2023

    390,000        380,914  

3.63%, 05/13/2024

    480,000        476,794  

4.40%, 07/22/2020

    540,000        553,146  

4.63%, 05/10/2021

    53,000        54,823  

Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufbau
4.50%, 07/16/2018

    310,000        310,263  

Mellon Capital IV
3-Month LIBOR + 0.57%, 4.00% (J), 07/30/2018 (A) (K)

    115,000        103,098  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

3.45%, 02/13/2023

    175,000        171,506  

4.10%, 06/03/2026, MTN

    393,000        385,101  

Westpac Banking Corp.
4.88%, 11/19/2019

    50,000        51,265  
    

 

 

 
       7,722,890  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.6%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.

    

3.65%, 02/01/2026

    575,000        562,892  

3.70%, 02/01/2024

    470,000        469,355  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.

    

4.38%, 02/15/2021

    110,000        113,462  

8.20%, 01/15/2039

    126,000        180,133  

Coca-Cola Co.
3.30%, 09/01/2021

    140,000        141,173  

Diageo Capital PLC
4.83%, 07/15/2020

    445,000        460,146  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    

3.00%, 08/25/2021

    180,000        180,376  

4.25%, 10/22/2044

    106,000        108,062  
    

 

 

 
       2,215,599  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.3%  

AbbVie, Inc.
4.40%, 11/06/2042

    220,000        208,971  

Amgen, Inc.

    

4.66%, 06/15/2051

    168,000        166,117  

5.70%, 02/01/2019

    85,000        86,395  

Biogen, Inc.
5.20%, 09/15/2045

    80,000        84,898  

Celgene Corp.
3.88%, 08/15/2025

    490,000        476,850  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Biotechnology (continued)  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.
4.50%, 02/01/2045

    $   82,000        $   81,962  
    

 

 

 
       1,105,193  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 0.8%  

BlackRock, Inc.
5.00%, 12/10/2019

    140,000        144,414  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3.75%, 03/26/2025

    520,000        500,120  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3.63%, 01/22/2023

    370,000        367,568  

4.00%, 03/03/2024

    842,000        842,589  

6.00%, 06/15/2020, MTN

    50,000        52,584  

6.13%, 02/15/2033

    95,000        108,632  

Morgan Stanley

    

4.38%, 01/22/2047

    194,000        185,264  

4.88%, 11/01/2022

    345,000        357,838  

5.50%, 07/24/2020, MTN

    200,000        208,928  
    

 

 

 
       2,767,937  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.5%  

Dow Chemical Co.

    

4.25%, 11/15/2020

    50,000        51,073  

4.38%, 11/15/2042

    510,000        480,388  

8.55%, 05/15/2019

    80,000        83,846  

E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.
2.80%, 02/15/2023

    375,000        363,642  

Ecolab, Inc.
5.50%, 12/08/2041

    130,000        152,882  

LYB International Finance II BV
3.50%, 03/02/2027

    517,000        484,821  

Mosaic Co.
5.63%, 11/15/2043

    124,000        124,907  

Praxair, Inc.
3.55%, 11/07/2042

    160,000        149,266  
    

 

 

 
       1,890,825  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.0% (H)  

Cintas Corp. No. 2
4.30%, 06/01/2021

    145,000        148,926  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.1%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.
5.90%, 02/15/2039

    160,000        197,954  

Motorola Solutions, Inc.
7.50%, 05/15/2025

    4,000        4,553  
    

 

 

 
       202,507  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.1%  

American Express Co.
8.13%, 05/20/2019

    75,000        78,473  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    

3.50%, 06/15/2023

    93,000        90,849  

4.75%, 07/15/2021

    80,000        82,682  
    

 

 

 
       252,004  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.1%  

International Paper Co.
3.00%, 02/15/2027

    532,000        481,571  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.2%  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.
3.75%, 08/15/2021 (A)

    200,000        205,513  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Diversified Financial Services (continued)  

GE Capital International Funding Co. Unlimited Co.
4.42%, 11/15/2035

    $   488,000        $   472,764  

National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corp.
3.05%, 02/15/2022

    155,000        153,932  
    

 

 

 
       832,209  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.8%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3.40%, 05/15/2025

    509,000        477,309  

4.55%, 03/09/2049

    97,000        83,869  

5.35%, 09/01/2040

    10,000        9,760  

British Telecommunications PLC
9.63%, 12/15/2030

    102,000        145,726  

Deutsche Telekom International Finance BV

    

4.88%, 03/06/2042 (G)

    470,000        458,673  

6.00%, 07/08/2019

    75,000        77,265  

Telefonica Emisiones SAU
5.13%, 04/27/2020

    75,000        77,372  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

3.50%, 11/01/2024

    665,000        643,208  

4.60%, 04/01/2021

    220,000        227,419  

4.86%, 08/21/2046

    294,000        280,938  

5.15%, 09/15/2023

    260,000        276,511  
    

 

 

 
       2,758,050  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.9%  

AEP Texas, Inc.
6.65%, 02/15/2033

    85,000        107,951  

Ameren Illinois Co.
9.75%, 11/15/2018

    103,000        105,640  

Berkshire Hathaway Energy Co.
6.13%, 04/01/2036

    371,000        457,553  

Duke Energy Carolinas LLC
4.25%, 12/15/2041

    455,000        463,640  

Entergy Texas, Inc.
7.13%, 02/01/2019

    100,000        102,303  

Exelon Corp.
5.15%, 12/01/2020

    90,000        93,018  

Florida Power & Light Co.
4.13%, 02/01/2042

    115,000        116,165  

Oncor Electric Delivery Co. LLC
6.80%, 09/01/2018

    100,000        100,628  

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
3.50%, 06/15/2025

    475,000        443,128  

Progress Energy, Inc.
4.40%, 01/15/2021

    165,000        168,547  

Southern California Edison Co.

    

4.00%, 04/01/2047

    239,000        223,193  

5.55%, 01/15/2036

    400,000        449,654  

TECO Finance, Inc.
5.15%, 03/15/2020

    75,000        77,051  

Wisconsin Electric Power Co.
2.95%, 09/15/2021

    95,000        94,427  
    

 

 

 
       3,002,898  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.0% (H)  

Corning, Inc.
4.75%, 03/15/2042

    155,000        156,441  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 0.1%  

American Tower Corp.
5.05%, 09/01/2020

    $   90,000        $   93,018  

Welltower, Inc.
4.95%, 01/15/2021

    175,000        180,076  
    

 

 

 
       273,094  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.1%  

Ahold Finance USA LLC
6.88%, 05/01/2029

    55,000        64,537  

Costco Wholesale Corp.
1.70%, 12/15/2019

    165,000        162,427  
    

 

 

 
       226,964  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.3%  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.

    

3.00%, 06/01/2026

    534,000        480,880  

5.38%, 02/10/2020

    78,000        80,666  

Tyson Foods, Inc.
3.95%, 08/15/2024

    470,000        469,056  
    

 

 

 
       1,030,602  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.0% (H)  

CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp.
4.10%, 09/01/2047

    108,000        102,850  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.0% (H)  

Medtronic, Inc.
4.50%, 03/15/2042

    135,000        137,878  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.1%  

Anthem, Inc.
4.55%, 03/01/2048

    173,000        164,800  

Cigna Corp.
4.50%, 03/15/2021

    75,000        76,586  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.
4.25%, 04/15/2047

    212,000        211,047  
    

 

 

 
       452,433  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.0% (H)  

McDonald’s Corp.
5.00%, 02/01/2019, MTN

    85,000        86,127  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.1%  

Newell Brands, Inc.
3.90%, 11/01/2025

    490,000        467,186  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.0% (H)  

Kimberly-Clark Corp.
3.88%, 03/01/2021

    115,000        117,238  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.0% (H)  

Exelon Generation Co. LLC
4.00%, 10/01/2020

    145,000        146,986  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.9%  

American International Group, Inc.

    

6.25%, 05/01/2036

    181,000        206,318  

6.40%, 12/15/2020

    70,000        75,028  

Aon Corp.
5.00%, 09/30/2020

    75,000        77,607  

Chubb INA Holdings, Inc.
6.70%, 05/15/2036

    355,000        457,815  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
5.50%, 03/30/2020

    430,000        446,664  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    

4.35%, 01/30/2047

    $   204,000        $   202,923  

4.80%, 07/15/2021

    55,000        57,187  

MetLife, Inc.
6.40%, 12/15/2066

    441,000        467,460  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    

3.50%, 05/15/2024, MTN

    399,000        395,587  

5.38%, 06/21/2020, MTN

    90,000        93,658  

Fixed until 06/15/2023, 5.63% (J), 06/15/2043

    475,000        489,844  

XLIT, Ltd.
5.75%, 10/01/2021

    80,000        85,359  
    

 

 

 
       3,055,450  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.2%  

Amazon.com, Inc.
3.80%, 12/05/2024

    558,000        569,322  

Expedia Group, Inc.
3.80%, 02/15/2028

    288,000        263,736  
    

 

 

 
       833,058  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.2%  

DXC Technology Co.
7.45%, 10/15/2029

    75,000        90,944  

International Business Machines Corp.

    

3.63%, 02/12/2024

    470,000        474,469  

4.00%, 06/20/2042

    92,000        89,721  

5.60%, 11/30/2039

    5,000        5,924  
    

 

 

 
       661,058  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 0.0% (H)  

Caterpillar, Inc.
7.38%, 03/01/2097

    55,000        74,194  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.2%  

21st Century Fox America, Inc.

    

5.65%, 08/15/2020

    85,000        89,187  

6.15%, 02/15/2041

    405,000        483,964  

6.55%, 03/15/2033

    75,000        89,540  

CBS Corp.
3.50%, 01/15/2025

    1,005,000        961,174  

Comcast Cable Communications Holdings, Inc.
9.46%, 11/15/2022

    225,000        276,598  

Comcast Corp.
4.75%, 03/01/2044

    470,000        462,736  

NBCUniversal Media LLC
5.15%, 04/30/2020

    50,000        51,668  

RELX Capital, Inc.
8.63%, 01/15/2019

    39,000        40,159  

Time Warner Cable LLC
5.00%, 02/01/2020

    145,000        148,027  

Viacom, Inc.
3.88%, 04/01/2024 (A)

    315,000        304,762  

Walt Disney Co.
5.50%, 03/15/2019, MTN

    85,000        86,704  

Warner Media LLC

    

3.55%, 06/01/2024

    500,000        482,122  

3.80%, 02/15/2027

    513,000        484,464  

4.70%, 01/15/2021

    115,000        118,361  

WPP Finance
4.75%, 11/21/2021

    16,000        16,454  
    

 

 

 
       4,095,920  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Metals & Mining - 0.1%  

Barrick North America Finance LLC
5.70%, 05/30/2041

    $   150,000        $   166,396  

Newmont Mining Corp.
4.88%, 03/15/2042

    150,000        149,832  

Rio Tinto Finance USA PLC
4.13%, 08/21/2042

    155,000        152,797  
    

 

 

 
       469,025  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.3%  

Consolidated Edison Co. of New York, Inc.
5.30%, 03/01/2035

    90,000        100,705  

Dominion Energy, Inc.
3.90%, 10/01/2025

    475,000        469,211  

Sempra Energy
4.05%, 12/01/2023

    543,000        549,869  
    

 

 

 
       1,119,785  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 1.3%  

BP Capital Markets PLC
2.52%, 01/15/2020

    509,000        505,800  

ConocoPhillips
6.50%, 02/01/2039

    303,000        386,968  

ConocoPhillips Holding Co.
6.95%, 04/15/2029

    75,000        92,427  

Devon Energy Corp.

    

4.75%, 05/15/2042

    140,000        136,677  

5.00%, 06/15/2045

    187,000        190,232  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP

    

6.13%, 12/15/2045

    378,000        377,785  

6.70%, 07/01/2018

    90,000        90,000  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC

    

3.70%, 02/15/2026

    480,000        469,022  

5.20%, 09/01/2020

    50,000        52,104  

Hess Corp.
6.00%, 01/15/2040

    50,000        51,514  

Husky Energy, Inc.
7.25%, 12/15/2019

    50,000        52,764  

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, LP
5.30%, 09/15/2020

    125,000        129,651  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.
5.13%, 03/01/2021

    33,000        34,332  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.
2.70%, 02/15/2023

    150,000        145,732  

Plains All American Pipeline, LP / PAA Finance Corp.
3.60%, 11/01/2024

    410,000        388,289  

Shell International Finance BV

    

4.38%, 03/25/2020

    55,000        56,430  

6.38%, 12/15/2038

    298,000        385,561  

Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co. LLC
7.00%, 10/15/2028 (A)

    425,000        499,031  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.

    

3.80%, 10/01/2020

    130,000        131,652  

6.50%, 08/15/2018 (A)

    50,000        50,236  

9.88%, 01/01/2021

    168,000        193,756  

Valero Energy Corp.
6.13%, 02/01/2020

    90,000        94,008  

Williams Partners, LP
5.25%, 03/15/2020

    90,000        92,780  
    

 

 

 
       4,606,751  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Pharmaceuticals - 0.2%  

AstraZeneca PLC
6.45%, 09/15/2037

    $   100,000        $   123,768  

GlaxoSmithKline Capital PLC
2.85%, 05/08/2022

    220,000        216,277  

Johnson & Johnson
3.55%, 05/15/2021

    200,000        203,559  

Merck & Co., Inc.
3.60%, 09/15/2042

    80,000        74,720  

Mylan, Inc.
5.40%, 11/29/2043

    66,000        65,266  
    

 

 

 
       683,590  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.1%  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC
4.40%, 03/15/2042

    175,000        177,282  

Union Pacific Corp.
3.80%, 10/01/2051

    140,000        123,350  
    

 

 

 
       300,632  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.1%  

Applied Materials, Inc.
5.85%, 06/15/2041

    200,000        242,370  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.3%  

Microsoft Corp.

    

3.70%, 08/08/2046

    509,000        494,996  

4.00%, 02/08/2021 (A)

    200,000        206,182  

Oracle Corp.
3.25%, 05/15/2030

    505,000        473,055  
    

 

 

 
       1,174,233  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 0.2%  

Home Depot, Inc.
1.80%, 06/05/2020

    517,000        507,701  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.
3.80%, 11/15/2021

    140,000        142,930  
    

 

 

 
       650,631  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.4%  

Apple, Inc.

    

4.25%, 02/09/2047

    230,000        233,277  

4.65%, 02/23/2046

    451,000        485,862  

Xerox Corp.

    

3.63%, 03/15/2023

    536,000        514,289  

4.50%, 05/15/2021

    80,000        81,045  
    

 

 

 
       1,314,473  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.4%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    

2.85%, 08/09/2022

    505,000        493,074  

4.50%, 05/02/2043

    79,000        75,769  

9.25%, 08/06/2019

    118,000        126,046  

Philip Morris International, Inc.
6.38%, 05/16/2038

    105,000        126,901  

Reynolds American, Inc.
5.85%, 08/15/2045

    440,000        480,346  
    

 

 

 
       1,302,136  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.1%  

Vodafone Group PLC
4.38%, 03/16/2021

    230,000        236,102  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $49,967,166)

 

     48,482,453  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 1.8%  
Hungary - 0.1%  

Hungary Government International Bond
7.63%, 03/29/2041

    $   200,000        $   272,949  
    

 

 

 
Iraq - 0.4%  

Iraq Government AID Bond
2.15%, 01/18/2022

    1,272,000        1,246,545  
    

 

 

 
Israel - 0.1%  

Israel Government International Bond
5.13%, 03/26/2019

    310,000        314,464  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.2%  

Mexico Government International Bond
4.00%, 10/02/2023 (A)

    850,000        852,550  
    

 

 

 
Poland - 0.1%  

Republic of Poland Government International Bond
3.25%, 04/06/2026

    405,000        390,825  
    

 

 

 
Supranational - 0.4%  

European Investment Bank

    

2.88%, 09/15/2020

    220,000        220,685  

4.88%, 02/15/2036

    285,000        351,970  

Inter-American Development Bank
3.88%, 02/14/2020, MTN

    635,000        647,644  

International Bank for Reconstruction & Development
4.75%, 02/15/2035, MTN

    245,000        299,034  
    

 

 

 
       1,519,333  
    

 

 

 
Ukraine - 0.5%  

Ukraine Government AID Bonds
1.47%, 09/29/2021

    1,900,000        1,823,968  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $6,547,255)

 

     6,420,634  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 0.8%  

CCUBS Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2017-C1, Class A4,
3.54%, 11/15/2050

    800,000        783,686  

COMM Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2015-CR25, Class A4,

    

3.76%, 08/10/2048

    550,000        554,331  

Series 2015-DC1, Class A5,

    

3.35%, 02/10/2048

    575,000        568,398  

CSAIL Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2015-C4, Class A4,
3.81%, 11/15/2048

    600,000        604,822  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2015-SGP, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.70%, 3.77% (J), 07/15/2036 (G)

    237,459        238,278  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $2,879,545)

 

     2,749,515  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.2%  
California - 0.1%  

Los Angeles Department of Water & Power Power System Revenue, Revenue Bonds,
6.57%, 07/01/2045

    105,000        148,309  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
California (continued)  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited,
7.60%, 11/01/2040

    $   115,000        $   172,957  
    

 

 

 
       321,266  
    

 

 

 
New Jersey - 0.1%  

New Jersey Turnpike Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series F,
7.41%, 01/01/2040

    109,000        158,522  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.0% (H)  

New York City Water & Sewer System, Revenue Bonds,
5.44%, 06/15/2043

    110,000        134,991  
    

 

 

 
Texas - 0.0% (H)  

Dallas Area Rapid Transit, Revenue Bonds,
Series B,
6.00%, 12/01/2044

    110,000        142,674  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $703,910)

 

     757,453  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 16.6%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

2.38%, 01/13/2022

    745,000        735,221  

2.75%, 06/19/2023

    1,906,000        1,898,805  

3.00%, TBA (L)

    1,725,000        1,712,797  

3.00%, 07/01/2045 - 02/01/2047

    3,667,058        3,553,641  

3.50%, 10/01/2047 - 12/01/2047

    4,325,997        4,306,193  

4.00%, 11/01/2025 - 02/01/2046

    1,532,981        1,575,977  

4.00%, TBA (L)

    950,000        968,307  

4.50%, 05/01/2023

    16,705        17,264  

5.00%, 12/01/2038 - 04/01/2040

    563,026        600,843  

5.50%, 04/01/2038 - 10/01/2038

    223,679        241,989  

6.00%, 11/01/2037

    19,049        20,982  

6.75%, 03/15/2031

    245,000        334,504  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

1.88%, 09/24/2026

    1,408,000        1,285,665  

2.50%, 11/01/2031 - 01/01/2032

    3,111,308        3,025,383  

2.63%, 09/06/2024

    1,070,000        1,052,179  

3.00%, 05/01/2027 - 12/01/2047

    6,526,374        6,378,236  

3.50%, 04/01/2047 - 03/01/2048

    6,375,474        6,353,784  

4.00%, 03/01/2024 - 10/01/2043

    986,667        1,012,982  

4.00%, TBA (L)

    4,529,000        4,617,324  

4.50%, TBA (L)

    2,003,000        2,085,641  

5.00%, 03/01/2023 - 08/01/2040

    416,694        445,953  

5.50%, 12/01/2023 - 12/01/2039

    360,702        387,123  

6.00%, 03/01/2038 - 02/01/2040

    251,083        275,775  

6.63%, 11/15/2030

    414,000        555,307  

7.25%, 05/15/2030

    445,000        621,685  

Government National Mortgage Association

    

3.00%, 04/20/2046 - 09/20/2047

    4,381,270        4,300,782  

3.50%, 02/20/2048

    6,489,844        6,520,704  

4.00%, 12/15/2040 - 11/20/2045

    1,515,437        1,565,036  

4.50%, 06/15/2039 - 07/20/2045

    1,344,247        1,415,627  

5.00%, 08/15/2039 - 09/20/2041

    367,244        392,024  

5.50%, 12/20/2038 - 04/15/2040

    165,525        178,021  

6.00%, 06/15/2037

    21,329        23,323  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $59,187,230)

 

     58,459,077  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 22.6%  
U.S. Treasury - 22.6%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.25%, 08/15/2046

    $   1,209,300        $   1,041,510  

2.50%, 02/15/2046

    869,000        790,077  

2.75%, 11/15/2047

    514,000        490,468  

2.88%, 08/15/2045 - 11/15/2046

    1,265,000        1,239,276  

3.00%, 02/15/2047 - 05/15/2047

    488,500        489,983  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (A)

    392,000        393,317  

3.13%, 11/15/2041

    680,000        698,780  

3.63%, 08/15/2043

    2,428,300        2,706,796  

3.75%, 08/15/2041 - 11/15/2043

    1,243,000        1,408,694  

4.38%, 05/15/2040

    1,205,400        1,483,207  

4.50%, 02/15/2036

    851,400        1,041,036  

5.50%, 08/15/2028

    958,200        1,179,522  

6.00%, 02/15/2026

    290,000        353,154  

6.13%, 11/15/2027

    194,000        246,031  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

0.75%, 07/15/2019

    4,950,000        4,868,016  

0.88%, 04/15/2019

    2,311,000        2,285,272  

1.13%, 02/28/2021 - 09/30/2021

    1,486,000        1,425,758  

1.25%, 01/31/2020 - 10/31/2021

    3,780,600        3,663,448  

1.38%, 06/30/2023

    1,319,000        1,235,377  

1.50%, 05/31/2019 - 08/15/2026

    8,089,300        7,933,500  

1.63%, 06/30/2019 - 11/15/2022

    6,942,000        6,839,425  

1.75%, 03/31/2022 - 05/15/2023

    3,273,200        3,150,140  

1.88%, 11/30/2021 - 10/31/2022

    4,365,000        4,231,334  

2.00%, 07/31/2022 - 02/15/2025

    2,180,000        2,094,795  

2.13%, 11/30/2023 - 05/15/2025

    2,138,900        2,055,311  

2.25%, 11/15/2024 - 08/15/2027

    1,762,000        1,697,485  

2.38%, 08/15/2024 - 05/15/2027

    3,578,300        3,480,936  

2.50%, 03/31/2023

    418,800        414,612  

2.63%, 08/15/2020 - 11/15/2020

    4,739,000        4,743,916  

2.75%, 02/15/2019 - 02/15/2028

    6,787,300        6,769,569  

3.50%, 05/15/2020

    1,591,500        1,619,476  

3.63%, 02/15/2021

    7,638,000        7,832,829  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $81,061,844)

 

     79,903,050  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 0.4%  

U.S. Treasury Bill
1.90% (I), 08/16/2018

    1,527,000        1,523,277  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $1,523,277)

 

     1,523,277  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.4%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (I)

    5,020,679        5,020,679  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $5,020,679)

 

     5,020,679  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (I), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $4,675,591 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $4,771,335.

    $  4,675,241        $  4,675,241  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $4,675,241)

 

     4,675,241  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $316,502,528)

 

     364,893,782  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (3.3)%

 

     (11,808,822
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  353,084,960  
    

 

 

 
 

 

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS:  
Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (M)  
Reference Obligation    Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
     Maturity
Date
   

Notional
Amount (N)

     Value (O)      Premiums
Paid
(Received)
     Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

     1.00     Quarterly        06/20/2023       USD       9,390,000      $   143,183      $   169,998      $   (26,815

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS:  
Total Return Swap Agreements (P)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty   Rate     Pay/
Receive
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Shares or Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

S&P 500® Total Return Index Futures

  CITI     2.08     Pay       Quarterly       07/16/2018       USD       28,446,188       5,201     $   617,696     $   —     $   617,696  

 

      Value  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Assets)

   $   617,696  

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

2-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Long       34       09/28/2018     $ 7,198,479     $ 7,202,156     $ 3,677     $  

10-Year Japan Government Bond Mini

     Long       40       09/11/2018       5,450,065       5,449,668             (184

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Long       92       09/19/2018       11,022,275       11,057,250       34,975        

EURO STOXX 50® Index

     Long       6       09/21/2018       243,067       237,601             (5,466

FTSE 100 Index

     Long       31       09/21/2018       3,137,142       3,109,946             (27,196

Hang Seng Index

     Short       (12     07/30/2018         (2,197,239       (2,196,849     390        

MSCI Emerging Markets Index

     Long       9       09/21/2018       506,976       478,485             (28,491

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Long       4       09/21/2018       544,894       544,320             (574

S&P/ASX 200 Index

     Short       (37     09/20/2018       (4,168,811     (4,208,591           (39,780

S&P/TSX 60 Index

     Short       (36     09/20/2018       (5,213,517     (5,275,746           (62,229

TOPIX Index

     Long       56       09/13/2018       9,022,111       8,752,924             (269,187

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long       26       09/19/2018       3,988,960       4,148,625       159,665        
            

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total              $   198,707     $   (433,107
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS:  
Counterparty      Settlement
Date
       Currency
Purchased
       Currency
Sold
    Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BCLY

       09/14/2018        USD      2,425,292          CHF        2,377,785     $ 8,467      $  

BCLY

       09/14/2018        USD      674,517          EUR        575,620              (1,536

BCLY

       09/14/2018        USD      4,686,516          GBP        3,502,988       47,815         

BNP

       09/14/2018        CAD      737,523          USD        558,569       3,158         

CITI

       09/14/2018        USD      1,208,483          CAD        1,566,061       15,708         

CSI

       09/14/2018        USD      1,558,402          EUR        1,341,000              (16,574

CSI

       09/14/2018        GBP      900,000          USD        1,222,596              (30,805

CSI

       09/14/2018        SEK      8,819,728          USD        1,025,394              (34,979

JPM

       09/14/2018        USD      3,908,215          EUR        3,307,830       28,701        (5,461

JPM

       09/14/2018        USD      1,459,550          JPY        159,954,300       7,179         

MSCS

       09/14/2018        USD      555,881          AUD        749,393       1,163         

SCB

       09/14/2018        USD      1,484,906          AUD        1,967,516       28,504         

SSB

       09/14/2018        USD      347,836          AUD        458,204       8,663         

UBS

       09/14/2018        NOK      20,338,916          USD        2,532,996              (28,145

UBS

       09/14/2018        CAD      2,058,000          USD        1,553,531       13,924         
                      

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total                  $   163,282      $   (117,500
                      

 

 

    

 

 

 

INVESTMENTS BY COUNTRY:

 

 

Country   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

United States

    76.8      $   280,300,353  

Japan

    3.5          12,726,623  

United Kingdom

    3.3          11,971,008  

France

    1.6          5,653,362  

Canada

    1.5          5,596,590  

Germany

    1.5          5,445,495  

Switzerland

    1.3          4,860,569  

Netherlands

    1.2          4,251,983  

Australia

    1.1          3,964,547  

Hong Kong

    0.5          1,829,230  

Ukraine

    0.5          1,823,968  

Ireland

    0.5          1,722,213  

Spain

    0.5          1,675,572  

Supranational

    0.5          1,632,854  

Sweden

    0.4          1,379,516  

Iraq

    0.3          1,246,545  

Italy

    0.3          1,068,464  

Denmark

    0.2          873,903  

Mexico

    0.2          852,550  

Singapore

    0.2          654,208  

Belgium

    0.2          574,931  

Finland

    0.2          555,688  

Guernsey, Channel Islands

    0.1          500,120  

Israel

    0.1          456,699  

Norway

    0.1          399,292  

Poland

    0.1          390,825  

Hungary

    0.1          272,949  

Bermuda

    0.1          264,401  

Austria

    0.0 (H)          129,054  

New Zealand

    0.0 (H)          119,606  

Luxembourg

    0.0 (H)          108,789  

Macau

    0.0 (H)          106,150  

Portugal

    0.0 (H)          97,507  

Cayman Islands

    0.0 (H)          85,359  

Chile

    0.0 (H)          75,976  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY COUNTRY (continued):

 

 

Country   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Republic of South Africa

    0.0 %(H)       $ 5,414  

Jersey, Channel Islands

    0.0 (H)          2,272  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investments, at Value

    96.9          353,674,585  

Short-Term Investments

    3.1          11,219,197  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments

    100.0      $   364,893,782  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (Q)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs (R)
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 95,577,568     $ 52,655,537     $ 0     $ 148,233,105  

Preferred Stocks

          217,475             217,475  

Exchange-Traded Funds

    7,476,877                   7,476,877  

Rights

          2,854             2,854  

Asset-Backed Securities

          972,092             972,092  

Corporate Debt Securities

          48,482,453             48,482,453  

Foreign Government Obligations

          6,420,634             6,420,634  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          2,749,515             2,749,515  

Municipal Government Obligations

          757,453             757,453  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          58,459,077             58,459,077  

U.S. Government Obligations

          79,903,050             79,903,050  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation

          1,523,277             1,523,277  

Securities Lending Collateral

    5,020,679                   5,020,679  

Repurchase Agreement

          4,675,241             4,675,241  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 108,075,124     $ 256,818,658     $ 0     $ 364,893,782  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Centrally Cleared Credit Default Swap Agreements

  $     $ 143,183     $     $ 143,183  

Over-the-Counter Total Return Swap Agreements

          617,696             617,696  

Futures Contracts (S)

    198,707                   198,707  

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (S)

          163,282             163,282  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 198,707     $ 924,161     $     $ 1,122,868  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (S)

  $ (433,107   $     $     $ (433,107

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (S)

          (117,500           (117,500
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (433,107   $ (117,500   $     $ (550,607
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $4,841,800. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Non-income producing securities.
(C)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the value of the security is $0, representing less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    Securities deemed worthless.
(E)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $3,978 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(F)    Security is Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
(G)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $1,271,545, representing 0.4% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(H)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(I)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(J)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(K)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(L)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(M)    If the Portfolio is a seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Portfolio will either (a) pay to the buyer of protection an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation or (b) pay a net settlement amount in the form of cash or securities equal to the notional amount of the swap agreement less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation.
(N)    The maximum potential amount the Portfolio could be required to pay as a seller of credit protection or receive as a buyer of credit protection if a credit event occurs as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement.
(O)    The quoted market prices and resulting values for credit default swap agreements on asset-backed securities and credit indices serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of an expected liability (or profit) for the credit derivative had the notional amount of the swap agreement been closed/sold as of the period ended. Increasing market values, in absolute terms when compared to the notional amount of the swap agreement, represent a deterioration of the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement.
(P)    At the termination date, a net cash flow is exchanged where the total return is equivalent to the return of the reference entity less a financing rate, if any. As a receiver, the Portfolio would receive payments based on any positive total return and would owe payments in the event of a negative total return. As the payer, the Portfolio would owe payments on any net positive total return and would receive payment in the event of a negative total return.
(Q)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(R)    Level 3 securities were not considered significant to the Portfolio.
(S)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

AUD    Australian Dollar
CAD    Canadian Dollar
CHF    Swiss Franc
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
JPY    Japanese Yen
NOK    Norwegian Krone
SEK    Swedish Krona
USD    United States Dollar

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

BCLY    Barclays Bank PLC
BNP    BNP Paribas
CITI    Citibank N.A.
CSI    Credit Suisse International
JPM    JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
MSCS    Morgan Stanley Capital Services Inc.
SCB    Standard Chartered Bank
SSB    State Street Bank & Trust Co.
UBS    UBS AG

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt
ASX    Australian Securities Exchange
CDI    CHESS Depositary Interests
CVA    Commanditaire Vennootschap op Aandelen (Dutch Certificate)
FTSE    Financial Times Stock Exchange
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
SDR    Swedish Depositary Receipt
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TBA    To Be Announced
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index
TSX    Toronto Stock Exchange

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    23


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $311,827,287)
(including securities loaned of $4,841,800)

  $   360,218,541  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $4,675,241)

    4,675,241  

Cash

    8,745  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    179,547  

Futures contracts

    1,284,699  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $316,638)

    316,551  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    16,125  

Investments sold

    1,996,853  

Interest

    1,312,680  

Dividends

    200,808  

Tax reclaims

    127,476  

Net income from securities lending

    2,653  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    13,812  

Variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swap agreements

    4,431  

Prepaid expenses

    1,189  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    617,696  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    163,282  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    371,140,329  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

OTC derivatives (A)

    590,000  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    74,978  

Investments purchased

    2,526,000  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    9,341,917  

Investment management fees

    216,466  

Distribution and service fees

    65,464  

Transfer agent costs

    816  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,402  

Audit and tax fees

    15,175  

Custody fees

    20,865  

Legal fees

    4,826  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    54,554  

Other

    4,727  

Collateral for securities on loan

    5,020,679  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    117,500  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    18,055,369  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 353,084,960  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 353,398  

Additional paid-in capital

    291,396,659  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    8,383,407  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    4,174,175  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    48,391,254  

Swap agreements

    590,881  

Futures contracts

    (234,400

Forward foreign currency contracts

    45,782  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (16,196
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 353,084,960  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 26,283,143  

Service Class

    326,801,817  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    2,611,197  

Service Class

    32,728,554  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10.07  

Service Class

    9.99  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 2,384,371  

Interest income

    2,614,166  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    22,759  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (138,832
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    4,882,464  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,375,561  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    416,434  

Transfer agent costs

    2,643  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    5,730  

Audit and tax fees

    22,589  

Custody fees

    84,852  

Legal fees

    11,453  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    24,987  

Other

    9,419  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    1,953,668  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,928,796  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    6,478,075  

Swap agreements

    (833,762

Futures contracts

    (1,613,981

Forward foreign currency contracts

    105,552  

Foreign currency transactions

    (26,874
 

 

 

 
Net realized gain (loss)     4,109,010  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

      (13,681,274

Swap agreements

    602,935  

Futures contracts

    (240,952

Forward foreign currency contracts

    383,770  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (30,497
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (12,966,018
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (8,857,008
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (5,928,212
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,928,796     $ 4,692,115  

Net realized gain (loss)

    4,109,010       7,869,330  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (12,966,018     22,210,481  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (5,928,212     34,771,926  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (500,624

Service Class

          (5,276,894
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (5,777,518
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    768,561       1,300,386  

Service Class

    1,677,569       3,842,249  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,446,130       5,142,635  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          500,624  

Service Class

          5,276,894  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          5,777,518  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (2,296,367     (5,863,220

Service Class

    (18,448,604     (51,790,448
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (20,744,971     (57,653,668
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (18,298,841     (46,733,515
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (24,227,053     (17,739,107
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    377,312,013       395,051,120  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   353,084,960     $   377,312,013  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 8,383,407     $ 5,454,611  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    75,925       132,240  

Service Class

    166,488       388,344  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    242,413       520,584  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          50,722  

Service Class

          537,362  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          588,084  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (226,041     (595,997

Service Class

    (1,834,829     (5,301,117
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,060,870     (5,897,114
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (150,116     (413,035

Service Class

    (1,668,341     (4,375,411
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,818,457     (4,788,446
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.22     $ 9.48     $ 9.41     $ 9.54     $ 9.13     $ 8.62  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.09       0.14       0.13 (C)       0.10       0.11       0.08  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.24     0.78       0.08       (0.11     0.40       0.53  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.15     0.92       0.21       (0.01     0.51       0.61  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.18     (0.14     (0.12     (0.10     (0.10
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.07     $ 10.22     $ 9.48     $ 9.41     $ 9.54     $ 9.13  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.47 )%(E)      9.74     2.22     (0.08 )%      5.56     7.18
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   26,283     $   28,215     $   30,086     $   33,068     $   39,218     $   36,414  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.85 %(G)      0.86     0.85     0.85     0.86     0.86

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.85 %(G)      0.86     0.83 %(C)      0.85     0.86     0.86

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.86 %(G)      1.46     1.34 %(C)      1.08     1.21     0.91

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    25 %(E)      28     40     40     28     31

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.15     $ 9.41     $ 9.34     $ 9.48     $ 9.07     $ 8.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.08       0.12       0.10 (C)       0.08       0.09       0.06  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.24     0.77       0.09       (0.12     0.40       0.53  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.16     0.89       0.19       (0.04     0.49       0.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.15     (0.12     (0.10     (0.08     (0.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.99     $ 10.15     $ 9.41     $ 9.34     $ 9.48     $ 9.07  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.58 )%(E)      9.52     1.99     (0.42 )%      5.36     6.89
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   326,802     $   349,097     $   364,965     $   370,418     $   362,772     $   341,350  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.10 %(G)      1.11     1.10     1.10     1.11     1.11

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.10 %(G)      1.11     1.08 %(C)      1.10     1.11     1.11

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.61 %(G)      1.21     1.08 %(C)      0.83     0.96     0.66

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    25 %(E)      28     40     40     28     31

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    26


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    28


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    29


Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 2,889,959     $     $     $     $ 2,889,959  

Rights

    2,676                         2,676  

Corporate Debt Securities

    1,001,452                         1,001,452  

Foreign Government Obligations

    720,999                         720,999  

U.S. Government Obligations

    405,593                         405,593  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 5,020,679     $     $     $     $ 5,020,679  

Total Borrowings

  $   5,020,679     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   5,020,679  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Interest rate swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. The writer of the swaption becomes the counterparty to the swap if the buyer exercises. The interest rate swaption agreement will specify whether the buyer of the swaption will be a fixed-rate receiver or a fixed-rate payer upon exercise.

Swap agreements: Swap agreements are bilaterally negotiated agreements between the Portfolio and a counterparty to exchange or swap investments, cash flows, assets, foreign currencies, or market-linked returns at specified, future intervals. Swap agreements can be executed in a bilateral privately negotiated arrangement with a dealer in an OTC transaction or executed on a regular market. Certain swaps regardless of the venue of execution are required to be cleared through a clearinghouse (“centrally cleared swap agreements”). Centrally cleared swap agreements listed or traded on a multilateral platform, are valued at the daily settlement price determined by the corresponding exchange. For centrally cleared credit default swap agreements the clearing exchange requires all members to provide applicable levels across complete term levels. Centrally cleared interest rate swap agreements are valued using a pricing model that references the underlying rates including but not limited to the overnight index swap rate and London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) forward rate to calculate the daily settlement price. The Portfolio may enter into credit default, cross-currency, interest rate, total return, and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit, currency, interest rate, and commodity risks. In connection with these agreements, securities or cash may be identified as collateral or margin in accordance with the terms of the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Swap agreements are marked-to-market daily based upon values from third party vendors, which may include a registered exchange, or quotations from market makers to the extent available and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

For OTC swap agreements, payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are reflected as such within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represent payments made or received upon entering into the swap agreements to compensate for differences between the stated terms of the swap agreement and prevailing market conditions (credit spreads, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and other relevant factors). These upfront payments are recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations upon termination or maturity of the swap. A liquidation payment received or made at the termination of the swap is recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations. Net periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are included as part of Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations.

Credit default swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio enters into credit default swap agreements to manage its exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market to reduce its risk exposure to defaults of corporate and sovereign issuers, or to create exposure to corporate or sovereign issuers to which it is not otherwise exposed. Credit default swap agreements involve the exchange of a fixed rate premium for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security in the event of a defined credit event, such as payment default or bankruptcy (buy protection).

Under a credit default swap agreement, one party acts as a guarantor by receiving the fixed periodic payment in exchange for the commitment to purchase the underlying security at par if the defined credit event occurs (sell protection). The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the notional amount of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

The Portfolio sells credit default swap agreements, which exposes it to risk of loss from credit risk related events specified in the contracts. Although contract-specific, credit events are generally defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, restructuring, obligation

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

acceleration, obligation default, or repudiation/moratorium. If a defined credit event had occurred during the period, the swap agreements’ credit-risk-related contingent features would have been triggered, and the Portfolio would have been required to pay the notional amounts for the credit default swap agreements with a sell protection less the value of the contracts’ related reference obligations.

Interest rate swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Because the Portfolio holds fixed rate bonds, the value of these bonds may decrease if interest rates rise. To help hedge against this risk, the Portfolio enters into interest rate swap agreements. Under an interest rate swap agreement, two parties will exchange cash flows based on a notional principal amount. A Portfolio with interest rate agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate, on a notional principal amount. The risks of interest rate swap agreements include changes in market conditions which will affect the value of the contract or the cash flows, and the possible inability of the counterparty to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk is the discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from/paid to the counterparties over the contracts’ remaining lives, to the extent that amount is positive. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

Total return swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to commodity risk, equity risk, and other risks related to the underlying investments of the swap agreement in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The value of the commodity-linked investments held by a Portfolio can be affected by a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, overall market movements and other factors affecting the value of particular industries or commodities, such as weather, disease, embargoes, acts of war or terrorism, or political and regulatory developments. Commodity-linked derivatives are available from a relatively small number of issuers, subjecting the Portfolio’s investments in commodity-linked derivatives to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the commodity-linked derivative will not fulfill its contractual obligations. Total return swap agreements on commodities involve commitments whereby cash flows are exchanged based on the price of a commodity in exchange for either a fixed or floating price or rate. One party would receive payments based on the market value of the commodity involved and pay a fixed amount. Total return swap agreements on indices involve commitments to pay interest in exchange for a market-linked return. One counterparty pays out the total return of a specific reference entity, which may be an equity, index, or bond, and in return receives a regular stream of payments.

Open centrally cleared swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Centrally cleared swap agreements are marked-to-market daily and an appropriate payable or receivable for the variation margin is recorded, if applicable, and is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on centrally cleared swap agreements within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Open OTC swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. The value, as applicable, is shown in OTC swap agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (A) (B)

  $     $     $     $ 143,183     $     $ 143,183  

OTC swap agreements, at value

                617,696                   617,696  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (C)

    198,317             390                   198,707  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          163,282                         163,282  

Total

  $   198,317     $   163,282     $   618,086     $   143,183     $   —     $   1,122,868  
                                                 

Liability Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (C)

  $ (184   $     $ (432,923   $     $     $ (433,107

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          (117,500                       (117,500

Total

  $   (184   $   (117,500   $   (432,923   $   —     $   —     $   (550,607
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Value of centrally cleared swap agreements as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(C)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $ 7,166     $     $     $     $     $ 7,166  

Swap agreements

    (824,812           17,303       (26,253           (833,762

Futures contracts

    (1,277,117           (336,864                 (1,613,981

Forward foreign currency contracts (B)

          105,552                         105,552  

Total

  $ (2,094,763   $ 105,552     $   (319,561   $ (26,253   $     $   (2,335,025)  
                                                 

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (C)

  $ 55,581     $     $     $     $     $ 55,581  

Swap agreements

    1,185             590,439       11,311             602,935  

Futures contracts

    289,959             (530,911                 (240,952

Forward foreign currency contracts (D)

          383,770                         383,770  

Total

  $ 346,725     $ 383,770     $ 59,528     $ 11,311     $     $ 801,334  
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.
(C)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(D)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options
and Swaptions
at value
  Swap
Agreements
at Notional
Amount
  Futures Contracts at
Notional Amount
  Forward Foreign
Currency Contracts at
Contract Amount
Calls   Puts        Long   Short   Purchased   Sold
$  —   $  609   $  29,562,672   96,282,221   (9,992)   $  10,011,603   $  26,893,931

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

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Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
    Net Amount            Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
    Net Amount  
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
 
    Assets           Liabilities  

Barclays Bank PLC

  $ 56,282     $ (1,536   $     $ 54,746       $ 1,536     $ (1,536   $     $  

BNP Paribas

    3,158                   3,158                            

Citibank N.A.

    633,404             (590,000     43,404                            

Credit Suisse International

                              82,358                   82,358  

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

    35,880       (5,461           30,419         5,461       (5,461            

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

    1,163                   1,163                            

Standard Chartered Bank

    28,504                   28,504                            

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

    8,663                   8,663                            

UBS AG

    13,924       (13,924                   28,145       (13,924           14,221  

Other Derivatives (C)

    341,890                   341,890         433,320                   433,320  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   1,122,868     $   (20,921   $   (590,000   $   511,947       $   550,820     $   (20,921   $   —     $   529,899  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.
(C)   Other Derivatives, which includes future contracts, exchange-traded options and exchange-traded swap agreements, are not subject to a master netting arrangement or another similar arrangement. The amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.

7. RISK FACTORS

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Emerging market risk: Investments in the securities of issuers located in or principally doing business in emerging markets are subject to heightened foreign investments risks. Emerging market countries tend to have economic, political and legal systems that are less fully developed and are less stable than those of more developed countries. Emerging market securities are often particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect speculative expectations. Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in extreme price volatility.

Foreign investment risk: Investing in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involves additional risk. Foreign countries in which the Fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile than U.S. markets. The value of the Fund’s investments may decline because of factors affecting a particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, political or financial instability or other adverse economic or political developments. Lack of information and weaker accounting standards also may affect the value of these securities.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA,

 

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Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.78

Over $250 million

     0.73  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.95    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.20      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

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Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  22,098,617   $  65,637,584     $  32,845,261   $  55,659,272

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  316,502,528   $  59,317,356   $  (10,523,839)   $  48,793,517

 

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Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

11. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

 

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

12. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica AB Dynamic Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and AllianceBernstein L.P. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 5-year periods and below the median for the past 3- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Trustees discussed the reasons for the underperformance with TAM and TAM agreed to continue to closely monitor and report to the Board on the performance of the Portfolio. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on August 16, 2010 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the median for its peer group and above the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    44


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January  1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,007.20     $   3.19     $   1,021.60     $   3.21       0.64

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,000.50       7.64       1,017.20       7.70       1.54  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     0.25  

Duration †

     0.12  
Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Short-Term U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     41.2

Repurchase Agreements

     23.2  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     19.7  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     16.0  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

 

§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 19.7%  

Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corp.

    

1-Month LIBOR - 0.09%, 1.89% (A), 11/01/2018

    $  17,500,000        $  17,500,000  

1-Month LIBOR - 0.07%, 1.93% (A), 07/05/2019, MTN

    5,500,000        5,500,000  

Federal Farm Credit Banks

    

3-Month LIBOR - 0.26%, 2.08% (A), 09/28/2018

    7,000,000        7,000,163  

3-Month LIBOR - 0.23%, 2.08% (A), 04/03/2019

    9,000,000        8,999,469  

Federal Home Loan Banks

    

1-Month LIBOR - 0.14%, 1.95% (A), 10/19/2018

    11,500,000        11,500,000  

1-Month LIBOR - 0.09%, 1.97% (A), 01/14/2019

    7,400,000        7,400,000  

3-Month LIBOR - 0.26%, 2.07% (A), 12/20/2019

    11,500,000        11,500,000  

3-Month LIBOR - 0.24%, 2.10% (A), 09/23/2019

    7,750,000        7,750,000  

3-Month LIBOR - 0.20%, 2.16% (A), 01/18/2019

    8,500,000        8,501,114  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

0.88%, 10/12/2018

    4,531,000        4,517,921  

3-Month LIBOR - 0.28%, 2.07% (A), 08/10/2018, MTN

    16,000,000        16,000,000  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $106,168,667)

 

     106,168,667  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 41.2%  

Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corp.

    

1-Month LIBOR - 0.10%, 1.90% (A), 01/02/2019

    5,500,000        5,500,000  

1-Month LIBOR - 0.10%, 1.96% (A), 09/14/2018

    6,000,000        6,000,000  

1-Month LIBOR - 0.06%, 2.03% (A), 07/25/2019

    11,500,000        11,500,000  

3-Month LIBOR - 0.18%, 2.18% (A), 10/30/2018

    13,000,000        13,000,000  

Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corp. Discount Notes
1.68% (B), 08/03/2018

    7,500,000        7,488,348  

Federal Farm Credit Bank Discount Notes

    

1.49% (B), 08/09/2018

    7,500,000        7,487,917  

2.13% (B), 12/04/2018

    2,900,000        2,873,694  

Federal Farm Credit Discount Notes
2.24% (B), 01/23/2019

    8,000,000        7,899,720  

Federal Home Loan Bank Discount Notes

    

1.60% (B), 07/13/2018

    9,000,000        8,994,913  

1.88% (B), 08/07/2018

    10,000,000        9,980,472  

1.89% (B), 07/20/2018 - 07/24/2018

    26,900,000        26,868,876  

1.90% (B), 07/18/2018 - 08/13/2018

    45,500,000        45,432,845  

1.91% (B), 08/08/2018

    10,000,000        9,979,688  

1.92% (B), 07/25/2018

    3,300,000        3,295,669  

1.93% (B), 08/03/2018

    1,250,000        1,247,757  

1.94% (B), 08/23/2018 - 08/29/2018

    24,000,000        23,926,340  

1.95% (B), 08/17/2018 - 09/06/2018

      14,700,000          14,649,503  
     Principal      Value  
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Bank Discount Notes (continued)

    

1.96% (B), 09/19/2018

    $   16,500,000        $   16,428,534  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Agency Obligations (Cost $222,554,276)

 

     222,554,276  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 16.0%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.75% (B), 08/09/2018

    7,500,000        7,485,704  

1.84% (B), 08/02/2018 - 08/23/2018

    18,650,000        18,609,529  

1.94% (B), 09/13/2018

    7,900,000        7,868,737  

1.98% (B), 10/11/2018

    8,000,000        7,955,699  

1.99% (B), 10/04/2018 - 10/18/2018

    19,250,000        19,142,687  

2.04% (B), 10/25/2018

    7,000,000        6,954,705  

2.12% (B), 11/23/2018 - 12/20/2018

    18,250,000        18,084,201  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $86,101,262)

 

     86,101,262  
    

 

 

 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 23.2%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $112,467 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.13%, due 09/30/2021, and with a value of $119,447.

    112,459        112,459  

Goldman Sachs & Co., 2.00% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $24,304,050 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.10% - 2.13%, due 12/06/2018 - 08/15/2021, and with a total value of $24,786,077.

    24,300,000        24,300,000  

Jefferies LLC, 2.00% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $50,508,417 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 0.00% - 2.63%, due 09/15/2018 - 03/31/2025, and with a total value of $51,510,004.

    50,500,000        50,500,000  

Nomura Securities International, Inc., 2.10% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $50,508,838 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 1.38% - 2.75%, due 12/06/2018 - 05/31/2023, and with a total value of $51,510,028.

    50,500,000        50,500,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $125,412,459)

 

     125,412,459  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $540,236,664)

 

     540,236,664  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (396,426
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  539,840,238  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

  $     $ 106,168,667     $     $ 106,168,667  

Short-Term U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          222,554,276             222,554,276  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          86,101,262             86,101,262  

Repurchase Agreements

          125,412,459             125,412,459  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $     $ 540,236,664     $     $ 540,236,664  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Investments, at value (cost $414,824,205)

   $ 414,824,205  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $125,412,459)

     125,412,459  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

     194,915  

Interest

     271,563  

Prepaid expenses

     1,465  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     540,704,607  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     97,677  

Money market waiver due to advisor

     218,031  

Investment management fees

     397,991  

Distribution and service fees

     71,337  

Transfer agent costs

     1,084  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     1,739  

Audit and tax fees

     12,167  

Custody fees

     16,023  

Legal fees

     7,638  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     29,059  

Other

     11,623  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     864,369  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 539,840,238  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 5,398,413  

Additional paid-in capital

     534,441,807  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     18  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   539,840,238  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 189,252,625  

Service Class

     350,587,613  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     189,254,129  

Service Class

     350,587,173  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 1.00  

Service Class

     1.00  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Interest income

   $   4,288,902  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     4,288,902  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     732,996  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     428,870  

Transfer agent costs

     3,599  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     8,161  

Audit and tax fees

     11,581  

Custody fees

     69,557  

Legal fees

     16,671  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     14,725  

Other

     12,239  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1,298,399  
  

 

 

 

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees:

  

Initial Class

     276,000  

Service Class

     1,647,489  
  

 

 

 

Net expenses

     3,221,888  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     1,067,014  
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ 1,067,014  
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

    

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 1,067,014     $ 443,553  

Net realized gain (loss)

           19  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

     1,067,014       443,572  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

    

Net investment income:

    

Initial Class

     (1,317,442     (9,986

Service Class

     (164,367     (18,773
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

     (1,481,809     (28,759
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

    

Proceeds from shares sold:

    

Initial Class

     43,728,171       36,153,805  

Service Class

     111,756,094       114,456,140  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     155,484,265       150,609,945  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

    

Initial Class

     1,317,442       9,998  

Service Class

     164,367       18,801  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,481,809       28,799  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

    

Initial Class

     (33,595,245     (74,977,570

Service Class

     (90,189,722     (220,595,593
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (123,784,967     (295,573,163
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

     33,181,107       (144,934,419
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     32,766,312       (144,519,606
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

    

Beginning of period/year

     507,073,926       651,593,532  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

   $ 539,840,238     $ 507,073,926  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

   $ 18     $ 414,813  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

    

Shares issued:

    

Initial Class

     43,728,171       36,153,805  

Service Class

     111,756,094       114,456,140  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     155,484,265       150,609,945  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

    

Initial Class

     1,317,442       9,998  

Service Class

     164,367       18,801  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,481,809       28,799  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

    

Initial Class

     (33,595,245     (74,977,570

Service Class

     (90,189,722     (220,595,593
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (123,784,967     (295,573,163
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

    

Initial Class

     11,450,368       (38,813,767

Service Class

     21,730,739       (106,120,652
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     33,181,107       (144,934,419
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Initial Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

     0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)(C)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

           0.00 (B)                            
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

     (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B)       (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B)       (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     0.72 %(E)      0.01      0.01     0.01      0.01     0.00 %(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   189,253     $   178,217      $   216,616     $   232,137      $   239,293     $   256,856  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.33 %(G)      0.33      0.36     0.42      0.42     0.42

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture (H)

     0.64 %(G)      0.73      0.45 %(C)      0.29      0.23     0.26

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

     1.00 %(G)      0.22      0.01 %(C)      0.01      0.00 %(F)      0.01

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. or any of its affiliates may waive fees or reimburse expenses in order to avoid a negative yield. See the Fees and Other Affiliated Transactions section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

              

Net investment income (loss) (A)

     0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)(C)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

           0.00 (B)                            
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)        0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

              

Net investment income

     (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B)       (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B)       (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00      $ 1.00     $ 1.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     0.05 %(E)      0.01      0.01     0.01      0.01     0.00 %(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

              

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   350,587     $   328,857      $   434,978     $   451,031      $   427,205     $   376,622  

Expenses to average net assets

              

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.58 %(G)      0.58      0.61     0.67      0.67     0.67

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture (H)

     1.54 %(G)      0.94      0.46 %(C)      0.29      0.23     0.25

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

     0.10 %(G)      0.01      0.01 %(C)      0.01      0.00 %(F)      0.01

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. or any of its affiliates may waive fees or reimburse expenses in order to avoid a negative yield. See the Fees and Other Affiliated Transactions section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio values all security positions using amortized cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. RISK FACTORS

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Government money market fund risk: The Portfolio operates as a “government” money market portfolio under new federal regulations. The Portfolio continues to use the special pricing and valuation conventions that currently facilitate a stable share price of $1.00, although there is no guarantee that the Portfolio will be able to maintain a $1.00 share price. The Portfolio does not currently intend to avail itself of the ability to impose “liquidity fees” and/or “gates” on fund redemptions, as permitted under the new regulations. However, the Board reserves the right, with notice to shareholders, to change this policy, thereby permitting the fund to impose such fees and gates in the future.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1 billion

     0.28

Over $1 billion up to $3 billion

     0.27  

Over $3 billion

     0.26  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.48      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.73        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM due to the operating expense limitation.

TAM, on a voluntary basis and in addition to the contractual waivers in effect from time to time, has agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse expenses of one or more classes of the Portfolio to such level(s) as the Trust’s officers have determined, or may reasonably determine from time to time, in order to prevent a negative yield. Any such waiver or expense reimbursement may be discontinued by TAM at any time. TAM is entitled to recapture any amounts so waived or reimbursed upon the Portfolio, or any classes thereof, attaining such yield as the Trust’s officers reasonably determine.

Once the Portfolio, or any classes thereof, has maintained a daily positive yield for a reasonable amount of time, as determined by TAM, TAM is entitled to reimbursement by the Portfolio, or any classes thereof, of the fees waived and/or expenses reimbursed by TAM or any of its affiliates to the Portfolio, or any classes thereof, during any of the previous thirty-six months. Waived and/or reimbursed expenses related to the maintenance of yield are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

For the years and period ended December 31, 2015, December 31, 2016, December 31, 2017 and June 30, 2018, the amounts waived by TAM due to the maintenance of the yield are as follows:

 

     Amounts Waived         
Class    2015      2016      2017      2018      Total  

Initial Class

   $   114,623      $   10,571      $   —      $   —      $   125,194  

Service Class

     784,747        69,769                      854,516  

As of June 30, 2018, there are no balances available for recapture by TAM due to the maintenance of the yield.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  540,236,664

  $  —   $  —   $  —

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

 

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables — Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Aegon USA Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Trustees discussed the reasons for the underperformance with TAM and TAM agreed to continue to closely monitor and report to the Board on the performance of the Portfolio. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on March 22, 2011. The Trustees noted that the Portfolio transitioned from a “prime” money market portfolio to a “government” money market portfolio on May 1, 2016.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that information about the Sub-Adviser’s revenues and expenses was incorporated into the profitability analysis for TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio. As a result, the Board principally considered profitability information for TAM and its affiliates and the Sub-Adviser in the aggregate.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,001.30     $   3.18     $   1,021.60     $   3.21       0.64

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,000.00       4.41       1,020.40       4.46       0.89  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     6.01  

Duration †

     3.72  
Credit Quality ‡    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

AAA

     1.4

BBB

     5.6  

BB

     36.1  

B

     44.2  

CCC and Below

     8.6  

Not Rated

     13.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (9.0

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

Credit quality represents a percentage of net assets at the end of the reporting period. Ratings BBB or higher are considered investment grade. Not rated securities do not necessarily indicate low credit quality, and may or may not be equivalent of investment grade. The table reflects Standard and Poor’s (“S&P”) ratings; percentages may include investments not rated by S&P but rated by Moody’s, or if unrated by Moody’s, by Fitch ratings, and then included in the closest equivalent S&P rating. Credit ratings are subject to change. The Portfolio itself has not been rated by an independent agency.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 93.7%  
Aerospace & Defense - 1.3%  

Bombardier, Inc.

    

6.00%, 10/15/2022 (A)

    $  117,000        $  116,526  

6.13%, 01/15/2023 (A)

    1,005,000        1,007,512  

7.50%, 03/15/2025 (A)

    309,000        321,746  

7.75%, 03/15/2020 (A)

    55,000        58,025  

DAE Funding LLC

    

4.50%, 08/01/2022 (A)

    227,000        220,190  

5.00%, 08/01/2024 (A)

    367,000        352,504  

Triumph Group, Inc.

    

5.25%, 06/01/2022

    935,000        899,938  

7.75%, 08/15/2025

    491,000        486,090  
    

 

 

 
       3,462,531  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 2.1%  

American Airlines Group, Inc.

    

4.63%, 03/01/2020 (A)

    710,000        706,450  

5.50%, 10/01/2019 (A)

    804,000        812,040  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

5.60%, 01/15/2022 (A)

    565,848        577,519  

5.63%, 07/15/2022 (A)

    379,128        385,762  

6.13%, 07/15/2018 (A)

    676,000        676,811  

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

5.50%, 04/29/2022

    247,909        252,694  

6.90%, 10/19/2023

    627,486        650,138  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust
4.63%, 03/03/2024

    227,147        227,534  

United Continental Holdings, Inc.
4.25%, 10/01/2022

    407,000        392,755  

US Airways Pass-Through Trust

    

5.38%, 05/15/2023

    432,351        441,993  

6.75%, 12/03/2022

    479,170        505,429  
    

 

 

 
       5,629,125  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.2%  

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.
5.00%, 05/31/2026

    561,000        521,730  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 2.3%  

Barclays PLC
Fixed until 09/15/2019,
6.63% (B), 09/15/2019 (C) (D)

    687,000        687,493  

BNP Paribas SA

    

Fixed until 03/14/2022,
6.75% (B), 03/14/2022 (A) (C)

    680,000        674,900  

Fixed until 03/30/2021,
7.63% (B), 03/30/2021 (A) (C) (D)

    475,000        495,781  

CIT Group, Inc.
5.00%, 08/15/2022

    765,000        773,606  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA
5.71%, 01/15/2026 (A)

    925,000        845,785  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC
Fixed until 06/27/2024,
7.50% (B), 06/27/2024 (C)

    1,075,000        1,091,662  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC
Fixed until 08/15/2021,
8.63% (B), 08/15/2021 (C)

    690,000        733,298  

Societe Generale SA
Fixed until 09/13/2021,
7.38% (B), 09/13/2021 (A) (C) (D)

    920,000        936,100  
    

 

 

 
       6,238,625  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Beverages - 0.3%  

Cott Holdings, Inc.
5.50%, 04/01/2025 (A)

    $   872,000        $   848,020  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 2.1%  

Associated Materials LLC / AMH New Finance, Inc.
9.00%, 01/01/2024 (A)

    2,751,000        2,881,673  

Builders FirstSource, Inc.
5.63%, 09/01/2024 (A)

    1,284,000        1,248,690  

Griffon Corp.
5.25%, 03/01/2022

    1,719,000        1,672,415  
    

 

 

 
       5,802,778  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 0.8%  

Credit Suisse Group AG

    

Fixed until 12/18/2024,
6.25% (B), 12/18/2024 (A) (C)

    166,000        162,283  

Fixed until 12/11/2023,
7.50% (B), 12/11/2023 (A) (C)

    1,807,000        1,865,728  

Goldman Sachs Capital II
3-Month LIBOR + 0.77%,
4.00%, 07/30/2018 (B) (C)

    169,000        142,061  
    

 

 

 
       2,170,072  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 2.1%  

Eagle Intermediate Global Holding BV / Ruyi US Finance LLC
7.50%, 05/01/2025 (A)

    839,000        837,951  

Hexion, Inc.

    

6.63%, 04/15/2020

    1,603,000        1,501,049  

7.88%, 02/15/2023

    682,000        545,600  

10.00%, 04/15/2020 (D)

    458,000        453,420  

NOVA Chemicals Corp.

    

4.88%, 06/01/2024 (A)

    403,000        382,850  

5.25%, 06/01/2027 (A)

    1,449,000        1,350,287  

OCI NV
6.63%, 04/15/2023 (A)

    540,000        548,478  
    

 

 

 
       5,619,635  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 1.0%  

Aramark Services, Inc.
5.00%, 02/01/2028 (A)

    262,000        250,210  

Avis Budget Car Rental LLC / Avis Budget Finance, Inc.

    

5.50%, 04/01/2023 (D)

    972,000        947,700  

6.38%, 04/01/2024 (A) (D)

    312,000        305,760  

Garda World Security Corp.
8.75%, 05/15/2025 (A)

    1,080,000        1,104,300  
    

 

 

 
       2,607,970  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.7%  

CommScope Technologies LLC
6.00%, 06/15/2025 (A)

    1,317,000        1,344,986  

Nokia OYJ
3.38%, 06/12/2022

    677,000        655,390  
    

 

 

 
       2,000,376  
    

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering - 3.0%  

Abengoa Abenewco 2 SAU
PIK Rate 1.25%, Cash Rate 0.25%, 03/31/2023 (A) (E)

    296,447        20,751  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Construction & Engineering (continued)  

Ashton Woods USA LLC / Ashton Woods Finance Co.

    

6.75%, 08/01/2025 (A)

    $   993,000        $   943,350  

6.88%, 02/15/2021 (A)

    1,473,000        1,480,365  

Brookfield Residential Properties, Inc.

    

6.38%, 05/15/2025 (A)

    880,000        880,000  

6.50%, 12/15/2020 (A)

    256,000        259,200  

Brookfield Residential Properties, Inc. / Brookfield Residential US Corp.
6.13%, 07/01/2022 (A)

    75,000        75,281  

Century Communities, Inc.
5.88%, 07/15/2025

    879,000        830,655  

Pisces Midco, Inc.
8.00%, 04/15/2026 (A)

    1,624,000        1,561,963  

Weekley Homes LLC / Weekley Finance Corp.
6.00%, 02/01/2023

    463,000        450,846  

William Lyon Homes, Inc.

    

5.88%, 01/31/2025

    511,000        483,534  

6.00%, 09/01/2023 (A)

    365,000        360,332  

7.00%, 08/15/2022

    940,000        957,625  
    

 

 

 
       8,303,902  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 2.5%  

Ally Financial, Inc.

    

5.75%, 11/20/2025 (D)

    481,000        490,019  

7.50%, 09/15/2020

    641,000        685,870  

8.00%, 03/15/2020

    294,000        314,213  

Altice Financing SA

    

6.63%, 02/15/2023 (A)

    516,000        508,518  

7.50%, 05/15/2026 (A) (D)

    807,000        780,530  

Altice US Finance I Corp.
5.38%, 07/15/2023 (A)

    340,000        338,300  

Navient Corp.

    

4.88%, 06/17/2019, MTN

    413,000        415,065  

5.00%, 10/26/2020

    489,000        487,778  

5.88%, 10/25/2024

    428,000        413,555  

6.50%, 06/15/2022

    325,000        332,719  

6.63%, 07/26/2021

    279,000        286,589  

6.75%, 06/15/2026

    407,000        397,720  

Springleaf Finance Corp.

    

5.25%, 12/15/2019

    645,000        653,062  

6.00%, 06/01/2020

    577,000        592,146  
    

 

 

 
       6,696,084  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 2.5%  

ARD Finance SA
PIK Rate 7.88%, Cash Rate
7.13%, 09/15/2023 (E)

    660,000        661,650  

Ardagh Packaging Finance PLC / Ardagh Holdings USA, Inc.

    

6.00%, 02/15/2025 (A)

    810,000        788,737  

7.25%, 05/15/2024 (A)

    950,000        988,000  

BWAY Holding Co.

    

5.50%, 04/15/2024 (A)

    888,000        865,800  

7.25%, 04/15/2025 (A)

    217,000        211,575  

Crown Americas LLC / Crown Americas Capital Corp. VI
4.75%, 02/01/2026 (A) (D)

    263,000        249,850  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Containers & Packaging (continued)  

Flex Acquisition Co., Inc.

    

6.88%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    $   522,000        $   502,425  

7.88%, 07/15/2026 (A)

    313,000        311,779  

OI European Group BV
4.00%, 03/15/2023 (A)

    381,000        355,283  

Owens-Brockway Glass Container, Inc.

    

5.88%, 08/15/2023 (A)

    693,000        700,796  

6.38%, 08/15/2025 (A) (D)

    178,000        182,450  

Reynolds Group Issuer, Inc. / Reynolds Group Issuer LLC

    

5.13%, 07/15/2023 (A)

    341,000        336,738  

5.75%, 10/15/2020

    439,975        441,625  

6.88%, 02/15/2021

    177,774        179,996  

7.00%, 07/15/2024 (A)

    177,000        180,761  
    

 

 

 
       6,957,465  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 2.6%  

Avation Capital SA
6.50%, 05/15/2021 (A)

    562,000        564,810  

Dana Financing Luxembourg Sarl
5.75%, 04/15/2025 (A)

    1,645,000        1,620,325  

ILFC E-Capital Trust I
1.55% + Max of 3-Month LIBOR, 10-Year CMT, or 30-Year CMT,
4.57%, 12/21/2065 (A) (B)

    1,578,000        1,475,430  

ILFC E-Capital Trust II
1.80% + Max of 3-Month LIBOR, 15-Year CMT or 30-Year CMT,
4.82%, 12/21/2065 (A) (B)

    137,000        126,725  

Jefferies Finance LLC / JFIN Co-Issuer Corp.

    

7.25%, 08/15/2024 (A)

    490,000        480,200  

7.50%, 04/15/2021 (A)

    848,000        860,720  

Ladder Capital Finance Holdings LLLP / Ladder Capital Finance Corp.
5.25%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    1,052,000        1,052,000  

Travelport Corporate Finance PLC
6.00%, 03/15/2026 (A)

    1,017,000        1,024,628  
    

 

 

 
       7,204,838  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 7.9%  

Altice France SA
7.38%, 05/01/2026 (A)

    1,766,000        1,726,618  

CenturyLink, Inc.

    

6.45%, 06/15/2021

    850,000        873,944  

6.75%, 12/01/2023 (D)

    1,054,000        1,059,270  

7.50%, 04/01/2024 (D)

    242,000        248,655  

7.60%, 09/15/2039

    1,491,000        1,237,530  

7.65%, 03/15/2042

    1,294,000        1,074,020  

Frontier Communications Corp.

    

7.63%, 04/15/2024

    1,429,000        985,867  

8.50%, 04/01/2026 (A) (D)

    259,000        249,935  

8.75%, 04/15/2022 (D)

    389,000        328,705  

9.00%, 08/15/2031 (D)

    1,091,000        714,605  

10.50%, 09/15/2022

    405,000        367,538  

11.00%, 09/15/2025 (D)

    110,000        87,967  

Hughes Satellite Systems Corp.

    

5.25%, 08/01/2026

    118,000        110,625  

6.50%, 06/15/2019

    159,000        162,729  

6.63%, 08/01/2026

    620,000        573,500  

7.63%, 06/15/2021

    2,321,000        2,468,964  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Diversified Telecommunication Services (continued)  

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA

    

7.25%, 10/15/2020

    $   1,634,000        $   1,625,830  

8.00%, 02/15/2024 (A)

    185,000        194,250  

9.50%, 09/30/2022 (A) (D)

    355,000        410,025  

Level 3 Parent LLC
5.75%, 12/01/2022

    426,000        426,000  

Sprint Capital Corp.
6.90%, 05/01/2019

    590,000        601,918  

UPCB Finance IV, Ltd.
5.38%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    925,000        878,842  

Virgin Media Finance PLC

    

5.75%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    1,092,000        1,023,750  

6.00%, 10/15/2024 (A)

    200,000        190,260  

6.38%, 04/15/2023 (A)

    2,148,000        2,148,000  

Virgin Media Secured Finance PLC

    

5.25%, 01/15/2026 (A)

    400,000        370,000  

5.50%, 08/15/2026 (A)

    245,000        229,345  

Windstream Services LLC / Windstream Finance Corp.

    

6.38%, 08/01/2023 (A) (D)

    687,000        405,330  

7.75%, 10/01/2021

    473,000        379,582  

8.63%, 10/31/2025 (A)

    360,000        342,000  
    

 

 

 
       21,495,604  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.8%  

Elwood Energy LLC
8.16%, 07/05/2026

    1,012,087        1,123,416  

Red Oak Power LLC
9.20%, 11/30/2029

    841,000        960,843  
    

 

 

 
       2,084,259  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 3.3%  

CSI Compressco, LP / CSI Compressco Finance, Inc.

    

7.25%, 08/15/2022

    860,000        786,900  

7.50%, 04/01/2025 (A)

    240,000        240,900  

Exterran Energy Solutions, LP / EES Finance Corp.
8.13%, 05/01/2025

    554,000        584,470  

Genesis Energy, LP / Genesis Energy Finance Corp.

    

6.50%, 10/01/2025

    598,000        574,080  

6.75%, 08/01/2022

    894,000        902,940  

KCA Deutag UK Finance PLC
9.63%, 04/01/2023 (A)

    1,030,000        1,044,162  

Noble Holding International, Ltd.

    

6.05%, 03/01/2041

    527,000        382,075  

8.95%, 04/01/2045

    359,000        327,588  

NuStar Logistics, LP

    

4.80%, 09/01/2020

    1,323,000        1,326,307  

5.63%, 04/28/2027 (D)

    496,000        479,880  

6.75%, 02/01/2021

    461,000        482,898  

Rowan Cos., Inc.

    

4.88%, 06/01/2022

    655,000        618,975  

7.38%, 06/15/2025 (D)

    90,000        87,075  

Weatherford International LLC

    

6.80%, 06/15/2037 (D)

    680,000        544,000  

9.88%, 03/01/2025 (A) (D)

    70,000        70,350  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Energy Equipment & Services (continued)  

Weatherford International, Ltd.
6.75%, 09/15/2040 (D)

    $   843,000        $   668,077  
    

 

 

 
       9,120,677  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 2.2%  

CBL & Associates, LP

    

5.25%, 12/01/2023 (D)

    1,214,000        1,056,180  

5.95%, 12/15/2026

    386,000        325,082  

Iron Mountain US Holdings, Inc.
5.38%, 06/01/2026 (A)

    324,000        307,800  

Iron Mountain, Inc.

    

4.38%, 06/01/2021 (A)

    309,000        308,518  

5.25%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    1,163,000        1,076,240  

iStar, Inc.

    

5.25%, 09/15/2022

    404,000        391,123  

6.00%, 04/01/2022

    707,000        707,000  

SBA Communications Corp.

    

4.00%, 10/01/2022 (A)

    840,000        803,250  

4.88%, 07/15/2022

    1,065,000        1,055,681  
    

 

 

 
       6,030,874  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.9%  

Albertsons Cos. LLC / Safeway, Inc.

    

5.75%, 03/15/2025

    914,000        808,890  

6.63%, 06/15/2024 (D)

    786,000        742,063  

Rite Aid Corp.

    

6.13%, 04/01/2023 (A) (D)

    891,000        903,474  

7.70%, 02/15/2027

    118,000        99,710  
    

 

 

 
       2,554,137  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.5%  

JBS USA LUX SA / JBS USA Finance, Inc.

    

5.75%, 06/15/2025 (A)

    415,000        385,950  

7.25%, 06/01/2021 (A)

    748,000        755,480  

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp.
5.88%, 09/30/2027 (A)

    1,071,000        993,352  

Post Holdings, Inc.

    

5.00%, 08/15/2026 (A)

    692,000        645,290  

5.63%, 01/15/2028 (A)

    413,000        387,188  

8.00%, 07/15/2025 (A)

    754,000        836,940  

Simmons Foods, Inc.
5.75%, 11/01/2024 (A)

    96,000        83,280  
    

 

 

 
       4,087,480  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.1%  

Ferrellgas, LP / Ferrellgas Finance Corp.
6.75%, 06/15/2023 (D)

    460,000        400,200  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.9%  

DJO Finance LLC / DJO Finance Corp.
8.13%, 06/15/2021 (A)

    1,116,000        1,129,615  

Mallinckrodt International Finance SA / Mallinckrodt CB LLC

    

5.50%, 04/15/2025 (A) (D)

    382,000        305,600  

5.75%, 08/01/2022 (A) (D)

    1,058,000        952,200  
    

 

 

 
       2,387,415  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 5.0%  

CHS / Community Health Systems, Inc.

    

5.13%, 08/01/2021 (D)

    150,000        138,750  

6.25%, 03/31/2023

    323,000        295,949  

6.88%, 02/01/2022

    1,663,000        848,130  

8.13%, 06/30/2024 (A) (D)

    186,000        153,334  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Health Care Providers & Services (continued)  

DaVita, Inc.

    

5.13%, 07/15/2024

    $   562,000        $   545,140  

5.75%, 08/15/2022

    415,000        422,005  

Encompass Health Corp.
5.75%, 11/01/2024 - 09/15/2025

    1,641,000        1,649,281  

HCA Healthcare, Inc.
6.25%, 02/15/2021

    188,000        195,050  

HCA, Inc.

    

5.25%, 04/15/2025 - 06/15/2026

    1,736,000        1,731,614  

5.88%, 03/15/2022 - 02/15/2026

    1,703,000        1,739,602  

7.50%, 02/15/2022

    1,358,000        1,476,825  

LifePoint Health, Inc.

    

5.38%, 05/01/2024 (D)

    640,000        616,000  

5.88%, 12/01/2023

    718,000        714,410  

Tenet Healthcare Corp.

    

4.38%, 10/01/2021

    515,000        506,631  

5.13%, 05/01/2025 (A)

    284,000        269,978  

6.00%, 10/01/2020

    341,000        350,377  

6.75%, 06/15/2023

    369,000        367,155  

8.13%, 04/01/2022

    1,512,000        1,580,826  
    

 

 

 
       13,601,057  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 0.1%  

Change Healthcare Holdings LLC / Change Healthcare Finance, Inc.
5.75%, 03/01/2025 (A)

    412,000        389,793  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 6.4%  

Boyd Gaming Corp.

    

6.00%, 08/15/2026 (A)

    337,000        333,630  

6.38%, 04/01/2026

    405,000        410,063  

6.88%, 05/15/2023

    1,208,000        1,265,380  

Boyne USA, Inc.
7.25%, 05/01/2025 (A)

    788,000        821,490  

GLP Capital, LP / GLP Financing II, Inc.
5.25%, 06/01/2025

    689,000        689,000  

Hilton Domestic Operating Co., Inc.
5.13%, 05/01/2026 (A)

    847,000        832,177  

International Game Technology PLC
6.50%, 02/15/2025 (A)

    1,478,000        1,526,035  

KFC Holding Co. / Pizza Hut Holdings LLC
5.25%, 06/01/2026 (A)

    340,000        334,900  

MGM Resorts International

    

6.00%, 03/15/2023

    1,537,000        1,583,110  

6.63%, 12/15/2021

    794,000        836,677  

MGM Resorts International Co.
5.75%, 06/15/2025

    692,000        690,927  

NCL Corp., Ltd.
4.75%, 12/15/2021 (A)

    527,000        525,683  

Rivers Pittsburgh Borrower, LP / Rivers Pittsburgh Finance Corp.
6.13%, 08/15/2021 (A)

    891,000        882,090  

Scientific Games International, Inc.

    

5.00%, 10/15/2025 (A)

    703,000        669,607  

10.00%, 12/01/2022

    2,303,000        2,457,232  

Viking Cruises, Ltd.

    

5.88%, 09/15/2027 (A)

    2,116,000        1,999,620  

6.25%, 05/15/2025 (A)

    723,000        708,540  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure (continued)  

Wyndham Destinations, Inc.

    

4.15%, 04/01/2024

    $   717,000        $   705,349  

4.50%, 04/01/2027

    291,000        282,998  
    

 

 

 
       17,554,508  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 2.2%  

Beazer Homes USA, Inc.

    

5.88%, 10/15/2027 (D)

    664,000        578,357  

6.75%, 03/15/2025

    783,000        747,765  

8.75%, 03/15/2022

    322,000        342,125  

KB Home

    

7.00%, 12/15/2021

    1,211,000        1,271,550  

7.63%, 05/15/2023

    812,000        870,870  

Lennar Corp.

    

4.75%, 11/29/2027

    512,000        480,154  

5.00%, 06/15/2027

    398,000        381,085  

Meritage Homes Corp.

    

5.13%, 06/06/2027

    408,000        379,440  

7.15%, 04/15/2020

    1,027,000        1,083,485  
    

 

 

 
       6,134,831  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 2.0%  

Calpine Corp.

    

5.25%, 06/01/2026 (A)

    609,000        573,602  

5.50%, 02/01/2024

    577,000        530,119  

5.75%, 01/15/2025 (D)

    712,000        651,035  

5.88%, 01/15/2024 (A)

    825,000        816,750  

6.00%, 01/15/2022 (A)

    683,000        696,660  

NRG Energy, Inc.
7.25%, 05/15/2026

    808,000        860,520  

Vistra Energy Corp.

    

7.63%, 11/01/2024

    614,000        654,677  

8.00%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    652,000        700,085  
    

 

 

 
       5,483,448  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 1.4%  

Genworth Holdings, Inc.
4.90%, 08/15/2023 (D)

    698,000        610,750  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 2.13%,
4.47% (B), 02/12/2067 (A) (D)

    1,692,000        1,598,940  

Lincoln National Corp.
3-Month LIBOR + 2.36%,
4.68% (B), 05/17/2066

    1,714,000        1,631,454  
    

 

 

 
       3,841,144  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.3%  

NetFlix, Inc.
5.88%, 11/15/2028 (A)

    687,000        693,664  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.8%  

First Data Corp.

    

5.00%, 01/15/2024 (A)

    394,000        391,045  

5.75%, 01/15/2024 (A)

    803,000        803,016  

7.00%, 12/01/2023 (A)

    864,000        899,925  
    

 

 

 
       2,093,986  
    

 

 

 
Leisure Products - 0.6%  

Mattel, Inc.

    

2.35%, 08/15/2021 (D)

    286,000        259,545  

3.15%, 03/15/2023 (D)

    228,000        200,070  

4.35%, 10/01/2020 (D)

    292,000        290,540  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Leisure Products (continued)  

Mattel, Inc. (continued)

    

5.45%, 11/01/2041

    $   200,000        $   161,000  

6.75%, 12/31/2025 (A)

    726,000        706,943  
    

 

 

 
       1,618,098  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 1.3%  

Meritor, Inc.
6.25%, 02/15/2024

    1,503,000        1,514,272  

Novelis Corp.

    

5.88%, 09/30/2026 (A)

    523,000        500,773  

6.25%, 08/15/2024 (A)

    520,000        520,000  

Xerium Technologies, Inc.
9.50%, 08/15/2021

    1,021,000        1,077,155  
    

 

 

 
       3,612,200  
    

 

 

 
Media - 7.7%  

Altice Luxembourg SA
7.63%, 02/15/2025 (A) (D)

    225,000        207,000  

Cablevision Systems Corp.
8.00%, 04/15/2020

    383,000        402,035  

CCO Holdings LLC / CCO Holdings Capital Corp.

    

5.00%, 02/01/2028 (A)

    394,000        360,510  

5.13%, 02/15/2023

    780,000        771,958  

5.13%, 05/01/2027 (A)

    879,000        822,414  

5.25%, 03/15/2021

    425,000        427,922  

5.50%, 05/01/2026 (A)

    643,000        623,517  

5.75%, 01/15/2024

    61,000        61,153  

5.75%, 02/15/2026 (A)

    291,000        285,908  

Cequel Communications Holdings I LLC / Cequel Capital Corp.

    

7.50%, 04/01/2028 (A)

    497,000        503,063  

7.75%, 07/15/2025 (A)

    800,000        836,000  

Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    

6.50%, 11/15/2022

    1,619,000        1,645,770  

7.63%, 03/15/2020

    2,606,000        2,590,237  

CSC Holdings LLC

    

6.63%, 10/15/2025 (A)

    1,449,000        1,483,414  

10.13%, 01/15/2023 (A)

    449,000        495,023  

10.88%, 10/15/2025 (A)

    483,000        556,802  

DISH DBS Corp.

    

5.00%, 03/15/2023 (D)

    948,000        822,390  

5.88%, 07/15/2022 (D)

    693,000        651,420  

6.75%, 06/01/2021

    605,000        605,756  

7.75%, 07/01/2026

    2,137,000        1,872,546  

7.88%, 09/01/2019

    601,000        623,538  

Unitymedia GmbH
6.13%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    525,000        540,750  

Univision Communications, Inc.

    

5.13%, 02/15/2025 (A)

    1,514,000        1,398,557  

6.75%, 09/15/2022 (A)

    1,105,000        1,131,189  

Ziggo BV
5.50%, 01/15/2027 (A)

    1,450,000        1,354,445  
    

 

 

 
       21,073,317  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 3.1%  

Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc.

    

4.88%, 01/15/2024 (A)

    634,000        611,810  

5.75%, 03/01/2025 (D)

    384,000        363,840  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Metals & Mining (continued)  

Constellium NV

    

5.75%, 05/15/2024 (A)

    $   341,000        $   329,918  

6.63%, 03/01/2025 (A) (D)

    849,000        855,367  

First Quantum Minerals, Ltd.

    

6.50%, 03/01/2024 (A)

    700,000        675,500  

7.00%, 02/15/2021 (A)

    383,000        386,830  

7.25%, 04/01/2023 (A)

    855,000        855,000  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    

5.45%, 03/15/2043

    910,000        798,252  

6.88%, 02/15/2023

    877,000        924,095  

New Gold, Inc.

    

6.25%, 11/15/2022 (A)

    682,000        688,820  

6.38%, 05/15/2025 (A) (D)

    571,000        562,435  

Teck Resources, Ltd.

    

6.00%, 08/15/2040

    1,183,000        1,150,467  

6.25%, 07/15/2041

    134,000        133,330  

8.50%, 06/01/2024 (A)

    146,000        160,053  
    

 

 

 
       8,495,717  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 10.0%  

Alta Mesa Holdings, LP / Alta Mesa Finance Services Corp.
7.88%, 12/15/2024

    618,000        654,307  

Andeavor Logistics, LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.
6.38%, 05/01/2024

    400,000        427,000  

Callon Petroleum Co.

    

6.13%, 10/01/2024

    1,093,000        1,106,662  

6.38%, 07/01/2026 (A)

    235,000        235,588  

Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.

    

6.25%, 04/15/2023

    345,000        349,313  

7.50%, 09/15/2020

    135,000        135,844  

8.25%, 07/15/2025

    746,000        790,760  

Cheniere Corpus Christi Holdings LLC
5.88%, 03/31/2025

    520,000        540,800  

Chesapeake Energy Corp.

    

8.00%, 12/15/2022 (A) (D)

    392,000        411,482  

8.00%, 06/15/2027 (D)

    661,000        672,567  

CITGO Petroleum Corp.
6.25%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    769,000        765,386  

Continental Resources, Inc.
5.00%, 09/15/2022

    597,000        604,888  

CrownRock, LP / CrownRock Finance, Inc.
5.63%, 10/15/2025 (A)

    570,000        550,050  

DCP Midstream, LP
Fixed until 12/15/2022,
7.38%, 12/15/2022 (B) (C)

    718,000        687,485  

Denbury Resources, Inc.
9.00%, 05/15/2021 (A)

    768,000        811,930  

Diamondback Energy, Inc.
5.38%, 05/31/2025 (A)

    275,000        274,313  

EP Energy LLC / Everest Acquisition Finance, Inc.

    

7.75%, 05/15/2026 (A)

    485,000        495,912  

8.00%, 11/29/2024 (A) (D)

    215,000        217,150  

9.38%, 05/01/2024 (A)

    331,000        271,420  

Gulfport Energy Corp.

    

6.00%, 10/15/2024

    217,000        208,863  

6.38%, 05/15/2025 - 01/15/2026

    1,045,000        1,011,200  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

HighPoint Operating Corp.
8.75%, 06/15/2025

    $   431,000        $   461,170  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.

    

7.75%, 01/15/2032, MTN

    245,000        299,190  

8.05%, 10/15/2030, MTN

    134,000        159,844  

Oasis Petroleum, Inc.

    

6.25%, 05/01/2026 (A)

    432,000        436,320  

6.88%, 03/15/2022

    939,000        955,160  

Parsley Energy LLC / Parsley Finance Corp.

    

5.25%, 08/15/2025 (A)

    240,000        235,800  

5.38%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    505,000        501,212  

5.63%, 10/15/2027 (A)

    227,000        225,298  

PDC Energy, Inc.
6.13%, 09/15/2024

    993,000        1,012,860  

QEP Resources, Inc.
5.63%, 03/01/2026 (D)

    344,000        329,380  

Shelf Drilling Holdings, Ltd.
8.25%, 02/15/2025 (A)

    793,000        798,947  

SM Energy Co.

    

6.13%, 11/15/2022 (D)

    619,000        634,475  

6.50%, 11/15/2021

    426,000        435,798  

6.50%, 01/01/2023 (D)

    182,000        183,820  

6.75%, 09/15/2026 (D)

    118,000        118,295  

Southwestern Energy Co.
7.50%, 04/01/2026 (D)

    709,000        733,815  

Summit Midstream Holdings LLC / Summit Midstream Finance Corp.
5.75%, 04/15/2025

    343,000        325,850  

Summit Midstream Partners, LP
Fixed until 12/15/2022,
9.50%, 12/15/2022 (B) (C)

    672,000        658,560  

Targa Resources Partners, LP / Targa Resources Partners Finance Corp.

    

5.00%, 01/15/2028 (A)

    450,000        418,500  

5.13%, 02/01/2025

    991,000        978,612  

5.88%, 04/15/2026 (A)

    628,000        632,710  

6.75%, 03/15/2024

    1,043,000        1,095,150  

Ultra Resources, Inc.

    

6.88%, 04/15/2022 (A)

    118,000        89,385  

7.13%, 04/15/2025 (A) (D)

    587,000        412,368  

Whiting Petroleum Corp.

    

5.75%, 03/15/2021

    845,000        863,565  

6.63%, 01/15/2026 (A) (D)

    360,000        370,800  

WildHorse Resource Development Corp.

    

6.88%, 02/01/2025 (A)

    50,000        50,938  

6.88%, 02/01/2025

    978,000        996,337  

WPX Energy, Inc.

    

5.25%, 09/15/2024

    476,000        468,265  

6.00%, 01/15/2022

    334,000        347,360  

8.25%, 08/01/2023

    726,000        822,195  
    

 

 

 
       27,274,899  
    

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products - 0.5%  

Boise Cascade Co.
5.63%, 09/01/2024 (A)

    375,000        375,937  

Norbord, Inc.
6.25%, 04/15/2023 (A)

    1,018,000        1,061,367  
    

 

 

 
       1,437,304  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Personal Products - 0.2%  

Revlon Consumer Products Corp.
5.75%, 02/15/2021 (D)

    $   886,000        $   662,285  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 2.2%  

Endo Dac / Endo Finance LLC
6.00%, 07/15/2023 (A)

    1,243,000        1,022,367  

Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Netherlands III BV

    

2.20%, 07/21/2021

    164,000        152,116  

6.75%, 03/01/2028 (D)

    749,000        763,402  

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.

    

5.50%, 11/01/2025 (A)

    172,000        169,506  

5.88%, 05/15/2023 (A)

    3,064,000        2,878,245  

6.13%, 04/15/2025 (A)

    67,000        61,724  

6.50%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    125,000        129,375  

7.50%, 07/15/2021 (A)

    323,000        328,047  

9.25%, 04/01/2026 (A)

    415,000        431,081  
    

 

 

 
       5,935,863  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.3%  

Realogy Group LLC / Realogy Co-Issuer Corp.

    

4.88%, 06/01/2023 (A)

    479,000        450,260  

5.25%, 12/01/2021 (A) (D)

    239,000        237,805  
    

 

 

 
       688,065  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.3%  

Hertz Corp.

    

5.50%, 10/15/2024 (A) (D)

    301,000        236,661  

6.25%, 10/15/2022 (D)

    668,000        594,520  
    

 

 

 
       831,181  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.3%  

NXP BV / NXP Funding LLC
3.88%, 09/01/2022 (A)

    896,000        880,320  
    

 

 

 
Software - 1.2%  

Infor US, Inc.

    

5.75%, 08/15/2020 (A)

    672,000        680,400  

6.50%, 05/15/2022

    1,648,000        1,650,060  

Sophia, LP / Sophia Finance, Inc.
9.00%, 09/30/2023 (A)

    980,000        1,028,878  
    

 

 

 
       3,359,338  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 0.9%  

L Brands, Inc.

    

6.75%, 07/01/2036

    1,119,000        984,720  

6.88%, 11/01/2035

    773,000        687,970  

PetSmart, Inc.
5.88%, 06/01/2025 (A) (D)

    1,180,000        908,718  
    

 

 

 
       2,581,408  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 2.2%  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.

    

5.45%, 06/15/2023 (A)

    566,000        592,397  

5.88%, 06/15/2021 (A)

    664,000        673,045  

7.13%, 06/15/2024 (A) (D)

    693,000        734,184  

8.35%, 07/15/2046 (A)

    405,000        487,749  

Diebold Nixdorf, Inc.
8.50%, 04/15/2024 (D)

    1,314,000        1,258,589  

Seagate HDD Cayman

    

4.75%, 06/01/2023 (D)

    617,000        611,903  

4.75%, 01/01/2025

    385,000        369,236  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals (continued)  

Seagate HDD Cayman (continued)

    

4.88%, 06/01/2027

    $   128,000        $   118,971  

5.75%, 12/01/2034 (D)

    700,000        638,919  

Western Digital Corp.
4.75%, 02/15/2026

    513,000        498,892  
    

 

 

 
       5,983,885  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.8%  

United Rentals North America, Inc.

    

4.88%, 01/15/2028

    168,000        155,560  

5.50%, 07/15/2025 - 05/15/2027

    2,042,000        2,039,690  
    

 

 

 
       2,195,250  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 2.8%  

Sprint Communications, Inc.

    

9.00%, 11/15/2018 (A)

    467,000        476,340  

11.50%, 11/15/2021

    955,000        1,126,900  

Sprint Corp.

    

7.13%, 06/15/2024

    1,338,000        1,350,831  

7.63%, 03/01/2026

    734,000        748,680  

7.88%, 09/15/2023

    1,788,000        1,853,932  

T-Mobile USA, Inc.

    

4.00%, 04/15/2022

    360,000        356,328  

4.50%, 02/01/2026

    412,000        384,705  

6.50%, 01/15/2024

    273,000        285,285  

Wind Tre SpA
5.00%, 01/20/2026 (A)

    1,205,000        954,963  
    

 

 

 
       7,537,964  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $259,509,228)

 

     256,183,322  
    

 

 

 
LOAN ASSIGNMENTS - 1.5%  
Communications Equipment - 0.3%  

Avaya, Inc.
Term Loan B,
1-Month LIBOR + 4.25%,
6.32% (B), 12/15/2024

    796,000        796,497  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.1%  

Atkore International, Inc.
1st Lien Term Loan,
3-Month LIBOR + 2.75%,
5.09% (B), 12/22/2023

    317,753        317,276  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.3%  

Weatherford International, Ltd.
Term Loan,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.43%,
3.53% (B), 07/13/2020

    782,353        772,574  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.2%  

First Data Corp.
Term Loan,
1-Month LIBOR + 2.00%,
4.09% (B), 07/08/2022

    720,064        715,203  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 0.2%  

Cortes NP Acquisition Corp.
Term Loan B,
1-Month LIBOR + 4.00%,
6.00% (B), 11/30/2023

    507,705        500,724  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
LOAN ASSIGNMENTS (continued)  
Marine - 0.2%  

Commercial Barge Line Co.
1st Lien Term Loan,
1-Month LIBOR + 8.75%,
10.84% (B), 11/12/2020 (H)

    $   661,188        $   456,311  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.2%  

Kronos, Inc.
2nd Lien Term Loan,
3-Month LIBOR + 8.25%,
10.61% (B), 11/01/2024

    454,000        468,755  
    

 

 

 

Total Loan Assignments
(Cost $4,212,058)

 

     4,027,340  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCK - 0.2%  
Electric Utilities - 0.2%  

Homer City Generation LLC (F) (G) (H) (I)

    39,132        570,936  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stock
(Cost $2,125,325)

 

     570,936  
    

 

 

 
PREFERRED STOCKS - 1.4%  
Banks - 1.1%  

GMAC Capital Trust I,
Series 2, 3-Month LIBOR + 5.79%,
8.13% (B)

    113,050        2,973,215  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.3%  

Associated Materials Group, Inc.,
PIK Rate 0.00%, Cash Rate
0.00% (E) (F) (H) (I)

    1,300,464        988,352  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stocks
(Cost $3,939,350)

 

     3,961,567  
    

 

 

 
WARRANT - 0.0% (J)  
Building Products - 0.0% (J)  

Associated Materials Group, Inc., (F) (G) (H) (I)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 11/17/2023

    15,911        10,342  
    

 

 

 

Total Warrant
(Cost $0)

 

     10,342  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 10.8%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (K)

    29,601,488        29,601,488  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $29,601,488)

 

     29,601,488  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (K), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $3,922,622 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $4,004,694.

    $  3,922,327        $  3,922,327  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $3,922,327)

 

     3,922,327  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $303,309,776)

 

     298,277,322  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (9.0)%

 

     (24,727,227
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  273,550,095  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (L)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs 
(M)
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Corporate Debt Securities

  $     $ 256,183,322     $     $ 256,183,322  

Loan Assignments

          4,027,340             4,027,340  

Common Stock

                570,936       570,936  

Preferred Stocks

    2,973,215             988,352       3,961,567  

Warrant

                10,342       10,342  

Securities Lending Collateral

    29,601,488                   29,601,488  

Repurchase Agreement

          3,922,327             3,922,327  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 32,574,703     $ 264,132,989     $ 1,569,630     $ 298,277,322  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $117,881,916, representing 43.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(B)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(C)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(D)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $28,989,934. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(E)    Payment in-kind. Securities pay interest or dividends in the form of additional bonds or preferred stock. If the securities make a cash payment in addition to in-kind, the cash rate is disclosed separately.
(F)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the total value of securities is $1,569,630, representing 0.6% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(G)    Non-income producing securities.
(H)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $2,025,941 or 0.7% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(I)    Securities are Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
(J)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(K)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(L)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(M)    Level 3 securities were not considered significant to the Portfolio.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CMT    Constant Maturity Treasury
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $299,387,449)
(including securities loaned of $28,989,934)

  $ 294,354,995  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $3,922,327)

    3,922,327  

Cash

    4,119  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    116  

Investments sold

    1,006,861  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments sold

    84,141  

Interest

    4,421,742  

Tax reclaims

    16,607  

Net income from securities lending

    20,217  

Prepaid expenses

    908  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    303,832,033  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    139,394  

Investments purchased

    231,016  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    83,000  

Investment management fees

    127,061  

Distribution and service fees

    32,899  

Transfer agent costs

    634  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    955  

Audit and tax fees

    16,174  

Custody fees

    3,564  

Legal fees

    10,659  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    29,412  

Other

    5,682  

Collateral for securities on loan

    29,601,488  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    30,281,938  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   273,550,095  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 341,272  

Additional paid-in capital

    262,999,724  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    24,418,475  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (9,176,922

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (5,032,454
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 273,550,095  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 109,069,405  

Service Class

    164,480,690  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    13,713,010  

Service Class

    20,414,231  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 7.95  

Service Class

    8.06  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 105,733  

Interest income

    8,784,812  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    131,328  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    9,021,873  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    802,431  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    206,484  

Transfer agent costs

    2,033  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    4,357  

Audit and tax fees

    15,776  

Custody fees

    23,974  

Legal fees

    18,348  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    15,728  

Other

    6,153  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    1,095,284  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    7,926,589  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    575,267  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (8,466,917
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

      (7,891,650
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 34,939  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 7,926,589     $ 16,759,466  

Net realized gain (loss)

     575,267       1,127,324  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (8,466,917     2,754,205  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

     34,939       20,640,995  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

    

Initial Class

           (7,033,627

Service Class

           (9,551,751
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

           (16,585,378
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

    

Initial Class

     3,706,332       12,029,641  

Service Class

     8,689,670       25,688,633  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     12,396,002       37,718,274  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

    

Initial Class

           7,033,627  

Service Class

           9,551,751  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
           16,585,378  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

    

Initial Class

     (13,162,201     (23,699,552

Service Class

     (14,134,971     (35,604,219
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (27,297,172     (59,303,771
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

     (14,901,170     (5,000,119
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     (14,866,231     (944,502
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

    

Beginning of period/year

     288,416,326       289,360,828  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

   $   273,550,095     $   288,416,326  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

   $ 24,418,475     $ 16,491,886  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

    

Initial Class

     466,665       1,480,535  

Service Class

     1,076,181       3,153,495  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,542,846       4,634,030  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

    

Initial Class

           898,292  

Service Class

           1,201,477  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
           2,099,769  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

    

Initial Class

     (1,660,508     (2,951,818

Service Class

     (1,761,613     (4,341,114
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (3,422,121     (7,292,932
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

    

Initial Class

     (1,193,843     (572,991

Service Class

     (685,432     13,858  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (1,879,275     (559,133
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 7.94     $ 7.85     $ 7.22     $ 8.05     $ 8.20     $ 8.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.23       0.47       0.46 (B)       0.46       0.46       0.50  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.22     0.11       0.63       (0.78     (0.13     0.02  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.01       0.58       1.09       (0.32     0.33       0.52  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.49     (0.46     (0.51     (0.48     (0.51
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 7.95     $ 7.94     $ 7.85     $ 7.22     $ 8.05     $ 8.20  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    0.13 %(D)       7.44     15.34     (4.22 )%      3.98     6.60
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   109,069     $   118,416     $   121,553     $   109,369     $   137,025     $   157,929  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.64 %(E)      0.64     0.66     0.64     0.67     0.72

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.64 %(E)      0.64     0.64 %(B)      0.64     0.67     0.72

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    5.88 %(E)      5.84     6.08 %(B)      5.80     5.55     5.98

Portfolio turnover rate

    19 %(D)      39     46     56     50     56

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 8.06     $ 7.96     $ 7.32     $ 8.14     $ 8.30     $ 8.29  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.22       0.46       0.45 (B)       0.45       0.45       0.48  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.22     0.11       0.64       (0.78     (0.14     0.02  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

          0.57       1.09       (0.33     0.31       0.50  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.47     (0.45     (0.49     (0.47     (0.49
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 8.06     $ 8.06     $ 7.96     $ 7.32     $ 8.14     $ 8.30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    0.00 %(D)      7.21     15.00     (4.30 )%      3.60     6.33
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   164,481     $   170,000     $   167,808     $   147,295     $   143,882     $   160,741  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.89 %(E)      0.89     0.91     0.89     0.92     0.97

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.89 %(E)      0.89     0.89 %(B)      0.89     0.92     0.97

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    5.63 %(E)      5.59     5.82 %(B)      5.56     5.29     5.72

Portfolio turnover rate

    19 %(D)      39     46     56     50     56

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Loan assignments: Loan assignments are normally valued using an income approach, which projects future cash flows and converts those future cash flows to a present value using a discount rate. The resulting present value reflects the likely fair value of the loan. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Warrants: Warrants may be priced intrinsically using a model that incorporates the subscription or strike price, the daily market price for the underlying security, and a subscription ratio. If the inputs are unavailable, or if the subscription or strike price is higher than the market price, then the warrants are priced at zero. Warrants are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. INVESTMENT AND SECURITY VALUATIONS

 

Loan participations and assignments: The Portfolio may invest in direct debt instruments which are interests in amounts owed to lenders or lending syndicates by corporate, governmental, or other borrowers, either in the form of participations at the time the loan is originated (“Participations”) or buying an interest in the loan in the secondary market from a financial institution or institutional investor (“Assignments”). Participations and Assignments in commercial loans may be secured or unsecured. These investments may include standby financing commitments, including revolving credit facilities that obligate the Portfolio to supply additional cash to the borrowers on demand. Loan Participations and Assignments involve risks of insolvency of the lending banks or other financial intermediaries. As such, the Portfolio assumes the credit risks associated with the corporate borrowers and may assume the credit risks associated with the interposed banks or other financial intermediaries.

The Portfolio, based on its ability to invest in Loan Participations and Assignments, may be contractually obligated to receive approval from the agent banks and/or borrowers prior to the sale of these investments. The Portfolio that participates in such syndications, or that can buy a portion of the loans, become part lenders. Loans are often administered by agent banks acting as agents for all holders.

The agent banks administer the terms of the loans, as specified in the loan agreements. In addition, the agent banks are normally responsible for the collection of principal and interest payments from the corporate borrowers and the apportionment of these payments to the credit of all institutions that are parties to the loan agreements. Unless the Portfolio has direct recourse against the corporate borrowers under the terms of the loans or other indebtedness, the Portfolio may have to rely on the agent banks or other financial intermediaries to apply appropriate credit remedies against corporate borrowers.

The Portfolio held no unsecured loan participations at June 30, 2018. Open secured loan participations and assignments at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

Payment in-kind (“PIK”) securities: PIKs give the issuer the option of making interest payments in either cash or additional debt securities at each interest payment date. Those additional debt securities usually have the same terms, including maturity dates and interest rates, and associated risks as the original bonds. The daily market quotations of the original bonds may include the accrued interest (referred to as a “dirty price”) and require a pro-rata adjustment from Net unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments to interest receivable within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

PIKs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. INVESTMENT AND SECURITY VALUATIONS (continued)

 

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Corporate Debt Securities

  $   29,601,488     $     $     $     $ 29,601,488  

Total Borrowings

  $ 29,601,488     $     $     $     $   29,601,488  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

High-yield debt risk: High-yield debt securities, commonly referred to as “junk bonds,” are securities that are rated below “investment grade” or, if unrated, determined to be below investment grade by the sub-adviser. Changes in interest rates, the market’s perception of the issuers and the creditworthiness of the issuers may significantly affect the value of these bonds. Junk bonds are considered speculative, have a higher risk of default, tend to be less liquid and may be more difficult to value than higher grade securities. Junk bonds tend to be volatile and more susceptible to adverse events, credit downgrades and negative sentiments.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1.25 billion

     0.580

Over $1.25 billion to $2 billion

     0.555  

Over $2 billion

     0.530  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.80      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.05        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid

 

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Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  51,793,320   $  —     $  57,985,068   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  303,309,776   $  4,939,790   $  (9,972,244)   $  (5,032,454)

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Aegon USA Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on November 20, 2009 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that information about the Sub-Adviser’s revenues and expenses was incorporated into the profitability analysis for TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio. As a result, the Board principally considered profitability information for TAM and its affiliates and the Sub-Adviser in the aggregate.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica Aegon High Yield Bond VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    26


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   987.00     $   3.10     $   1,021.70     $   3.16       0.63

Service Class

    1,000.00       986.40       4.33       1,020.40       4.41       0.88  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     7.16  

Duration †

     5.93  
Credit Quality ‡    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Government and Agency Securities

     77.0

AAA

     14.0  

AA

     6.2  

A

     4.9  

BBB

     2.2  

Not Rated

     3.0  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (7.3

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

Credit quality represents a percentage of net assets at the end of the reporting period. Ratings BBB or higher are considered investment grade. Not rated securities do not necessarily indicate low credit quality, and may or may not be equivalent of investment grade. The table reflects Standard and Poor’s (“S&P”) ratings; percentages may include investments not rated by S&P but rated by Moody’s, or if unrated by Moody’s, by Fitch ratings, and then included in the closest equivalent S&P rating. Credit ratings are subject to change. The Portfolio itself has not been rated by an independent agency.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 9.6%  

Access to Loans for Learning Student Loan Corp.
Series 2012-1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%,
2.79% (A), 07/25/2036

    $  4,039,324        $  4,051,041  

Edsouth Indenture No. 3 LLC
Series 2012-2, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.73%,
2.82% (A), 04/25/2039 (B)

    2,434,012        2,440,486  

Navient Student Loan Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%,
2.84% (A), 07/26/2066 (B)

    5,000,000        5,031,454  

SBA Small Business Investment Cos.
Series 2012-10B, Class 1,
2.25%, 09/10/2022

    3,356,954        3,276,990  

SLM Student Loan Trust

    

Series 2005-10, Class B,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.27%,
2.63% (A), 10/26/2026

    6,010,000        5,682,456  

Series 2006-2, Class A6,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.17%,
2.53% (A), 01/25/2041

    5,000,000        4,882,305  

South Carolina Student Loan Corp.
Series 2010-1, Class A2,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.36% (A), 07/25/2025

    2,917,500        2,929,024  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $28,396,429)

 

     28,293,756  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 5.7%  
Automobiles - 0.1%  

General Motors Co.
3.50%, 10/02/2018

    347,000        347,657  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 2.3%  

Bank of America Corp.
Fixed until 12/20/2027, 3.42% (A), 12/20/2028

    6,308,000        5,940,081  

Barclays Bank PLC
10.18%, 06/12/2021 (B)

    304,000        350,767  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
Fixed until 06/30/2019, 11.00% (A), 06/30/2019 (B) (C)

    295,000        316,019  

ING Bank NV
5.80%, 09/25/2023 (B)

    316,000        334,844  
    

 

 

 
       6,941,711  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.2%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.
3.30%, 02/01/2023

    263,000        260,801  

Constellation Brands, Inc.
4.25%, 05/01/2023

    210,000        214,099  
    

 

 

 
       474,900  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.1%  

Owens Corning
4.20%, 12/15/2022

    316,000        316,772  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 0.7%  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
4.00%, 03/03/2024

    1,645,000        1,646,150  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Capital Markets (continued)  

Morgan Stanley
3.75%, 02/25/2023, MTN

    $   316,000        $   316,358  
    

 

 

 
       1,962,508  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.3%  

Discover Financial Services
3.85%, 11/21/2022

    485,000        482,922  

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC
4.25%, 09/20/2022

    298,000        300,402  
    

 

 

 
       783,324  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 1.1%  

Aviation Capital Group LLC

    

2.88%, 01/20/2022 (B)

    208,000        201,183  

7.13%, 10/15/2020 (B)

    1,403,000        1,513,109  

Portmarnock Leasing LLC
1.74%, 10/22/2024

    1,700,485        1,632,124  
    

 

 

 
       3,346,416  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.1%  

AT&T, Inc.
2.45%, 06/30/2020

    422,000        415,618  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.1%  

Siemens Financieringsmaatschappij NV
2.15%, 05/27/2020 (B)

    263,000        258,627  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.1%  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
3.30%, 11/18/2021

    263,000        261,327  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.1%  

Abbott Laboratories
3.40%, 11/30/2023

    263,000        259,482  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.1%  

General Electric Co.
4.65%, 10/17/2021, MTN

    263,000        273,549  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.3%  

Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
5.50%, 09/01/2022

    369,000        392,654  

Prudential Financial, Inc.
Fixed until 05/15/2025, 5.38% (A), 05/15/2045

    477,000        474,615  
    

 

 

 
       867,269  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.1%  

BP Capital Markets PLC
4.74%, 03/11/2021

    263,000        273,767  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $17,059,107)

 

     16,782,927  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 9.2%  

BCAP LLC Trust
Series 2009-RR6, Class 2A1,
3.66% (A), 08/26/2035 (B)

    219,810        219,731  

COMM Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2012-CR4, Class A3,

    

2.85%, 10/15/2045

    2,560,000        2,492,869  

Series 2013-CR9, Class A4,

    

4.38% (A), 07/10/2045

    3,000,000        3,124,054  

Series 2013-WWP, Class A2,

    

3.42%, 03/10/2031 (B)

    5,000,000        5,034,916  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Eleven Madison Mortgage Trust
Series 2015-11MD, Class A,
3.67% (A), 09/10/2035 (B)

    $   5,000,000        $   4,973,825  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2014-GC18, Class A4,
4.07%, 01/10/2047

    3,000,000        3,088,883  

JPMBB Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2013-C12, Class A5,
3.66%, 07/15/2045

    4,535,000        4,589,269  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust
Series 2013-C11, Class A4,
4.30% (A), 08/15/2046

    3,500,000        3,624,722  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $27,294,216)

 

     27,148,269  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 1.9%  
Texas - 1.3%  

North Texas Higher Education Authority, Inc., Revenue Bonds,
Series 1,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%,
2.98% (A), 12/01/2034

    3,767,271        3,811,650  
    

 

 

 
Vermont - 0.6%  

Vermont Student Assistance Corp., Certificate of Obligation,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%,
2.80% (A), 07/28/2034

    1,910,947        1,917,559  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $5,668,725)

 

     5,729,209  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 40.0%  

Federal Home Loan Banks
1-Month LIBOR - 0.13%,
1.96% (A), 03/01/2019

    20,000,000        20,000,000  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates

    

2.31%, 08/25/2022

    5,150,000        5,006,087  

3.11%, 02/25/2023

    10,000,000        10,043,291  

3.31%, 09/25/2025

    15,000,000        15,047,878  

3.53%, 06/25/2020

    5,500,000        5,560,249  

3.97% (A), 01/25/2021

    2,945,000        3,011,481  

4.08% (A), 11/25/2020

    3,690,000        3,779,718  

4.22%, 03/25/2020

    1,982,626        2,022,326  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC
4.00%, 02/15/2029

    248,230        249,374  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

1.88%, 12/28/2020 (D)

    4,000,000        3,926,160  

3.50%, TBA (E)

    19,000,000        18,910,624  

Government National Mortgage Association

    

4.58% (A), 10/20/2061

    3,269,573        3,292,155  

4.60% (A), 06/20/2062

    5,864,778        5,944,606  

4.62% (A), 09/20/2061

    2,937,150        2,960,866  

4.65% (A), 10/20/2061

    2,829,219        2,845,762  

4.69% (A), 12/20/2061

    1,954,215        1,970,922  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Government National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

4.74% (A), 07/20/2061

    $   3,308,973        $   3,334,569  

4.76% (A), 08/20/2061

    4,334,973        4,375,237  

Overseas Private Investment Corp.
5.14%, 12/15/2023

    10,687        11,167  

Tennessee Valley Authority
Series A,
2.88%, 02/01/2027

    6,000,000        5,850,798  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $121,360,870)

 

     118,143,270  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 37.0%  
U.S. Treasury - 37.0%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.50%, 02/15/2046

    5,967,000        5,425,075  

2.75%, 11/15/2047

    5,400,000        5,152,781  

2.88%, 11/15/2046

    5,350,000        5,238,193  

3.00%, 11/15/2045

    2,250,000        2,257,910  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (D)

    2,000,000        2,006,719  

3.50%, 02/15/2039

    1,414,500        1,541,032  

4.38%, 05/15/2040

    15,881,700        19,541,936  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

0.75%, 08/15/2019

    4,000,000        3,926,875  

1.13%, 02/28/2021

    28,000,000        26,940,156  

1.25%, 03/31/2021

    4,362,000        4,205,581  

1.38%, 01/31/2021

    1,700,000        1,648,137  

2.00%, 01/31/2020

    12,000,000        11,909,531  

2.38%, 01/31/2023

    9,825,000        9,678,393  

2.50%, 01/31/2025

    8,500,000        8,344,942  

2.75%, 04/30/2023 - 02/15/2028

    1,650,000        1,642,080  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $111,690,823)

 

     109,459,341  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.4%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (F)

    4,054,300        4,054,300  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $4,054,300)

 

     4,054,300  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 2.5%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (F), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $7,435,794 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $7,585,717.

    $  7,435,236        7,435,236  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $7,435,236)

 

     7,435,236  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $322,959,706)

 

     317,046,308  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (7.3)%

       (21,451,603
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  295,594,705  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

2-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Long        98        09/28/2018      $   20,743,248      $   20,759,156      $ 15,908      $  

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Long        123        09/28/2018        13,897,420        13,974,914        77,494         

10-Year U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long        40        09/19/2018        5,068,201        5,129,375        61,174         

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Long        40        09/19/2018        4,749,069        4,807,500        58,431         

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long        32        09/19/2018        4,917,058        5,106,000        188,942         
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total                   $   401,949      $   —  
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 28,293,756     $     $ 28,293,756  

Corporate Debt Securities

          16,782,927             16,782,927  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          27,148,269             27,148,269  

Municipal Government Obligations

          5,729,209             5,729,209  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          118,143,270             118,143,270  

U.S. Government Obligations

          109,459,341             109,459,341  

Securities Lending Collateral

    4,054,300                   4,054,300  

Repurchase Agreement

          7,435,236             7,435,236  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 4,054,300     $ 312,992,008     $     $ 317,046,308  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (H)

  $ 401,949     $     $     $ 401,949  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 401,949     $     $     $ 401,949  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $20,674,961, representing 7.0% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(D)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $3,972,444. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(E)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) security. Security to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Security may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(F)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(G)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(H)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
TBA    To Be Announced

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $315,524,470)
(including securities loaned of $3,972,444)

  $ 309,611,072  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $7,435,236)

    7,435,236  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    500,000  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    5,697  

Interest

    1,320,816  

Net income from securities lending

    362  

Prepaid expenses

    686  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    318,873,869  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    153,327  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    18,805,085  

Investment management fees

    135,701  

Distribution and service fees

    43,526  

Transfer agent costs

    1,029  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,445  

Audit and tax fees

    15,320  

Custody fees

    5,545  

Legal fees

    8,945  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    36,506  

Variation margin payable on futures contracts

    7,961  

Other

    10,474  

Collateral for securities on loan

    4,054,300  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    23,279,164  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   295,594,705  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 272,809  

Additional paid-in capital

    293,852,204  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    9,857,088  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (2,875,947

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (5,913,398

Futures contracts

    401,949  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 295,594,705  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 75,704,143  

Service Class

    219,890,562  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    7,135,491  

Service Class

    20,145,448  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10.61  

Service Class

    10.92  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 3,409,469  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    18,570  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    3,428,039  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    862,464  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    275,776  

Transfer agent costs

    2,321  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    4,994  

Audit and tax fees

    14,469  

Custody fees

    19,195  

Legal fees

    12,632  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    19,483  

Other

    8,709  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1,220,043  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (8,061

Service Class

    (10,136

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees:

 

Initial Class

    6,142  

Service Class

    4,633  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    1,212,621  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,215,418  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    (90,431

Futures contracts

    (1,151,052
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,241,483
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (5,739,772

Futures contracts

    378,293  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (5,361,479
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (6,602,962
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (4,387,544
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,215,418     $ 6,488,225  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,241,483     (640,074

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (5,361,479     5,873,281  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (4,387,544     11,721,432  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (3,220,169

Service Class

          (9,669,073
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (12,889,242
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (6,734,725

Service Class

          (23,203,281
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (29,938,006
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (42,827,248
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    4,543,692       8,878,913  

Service Class

    31,824,567       13,171,652  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    36,368,259       22,050,565  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          9,954,894  

Service Class

          32,872,354  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          42,827,248  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (12,184,418     (20,306,339

Service Class

    (51,346,956     (273,623,509
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (63,531,374       (293,929,848
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (27,163,115     (229,052,035
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (31,550,659     (260,157,851
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    327,145,364       587,303,215  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   295,594,705     $ 327,145,364  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 9,857,088     $ 7,641,670  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    430,333       769,942  

Service Class

    2,923,258       1,136,409  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    3,353,591       1,906,351  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          924,317  

Service Class

          2,961,473  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          3,885,790  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,150,014     (1,762,428

Service Class

    (4,693,277     (22,993,385
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (5,843,291     (24,755,813
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (719,681     (68,169

Service Class

    (1,770,019     (18,895,503
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,489,700     (18,963,672
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.75     $ 11.81     $ 11.85     $ 12.16     $ 12.33     $ 13.23  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.09       0.19       0.13 (B)       0.18       0.23       0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.23     0.13       (0.09 )(C)      (0.17     0.34       (0.53
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.14     0.32       0.04       0.01       0.57       (0.30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.45     (0.08     (0.26     (0.52     (0.31

Net realized gains

          (0.93           (0.06     (0.22     (0.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (1.38     (0.08     (0.32     (0.74     (0.60
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.61     $ 10.75     $ 11.81     $ 11.85     $ 12.16     $ 12.33  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.30 )%(E)      2.66     0.30     0.10     4.66     (2.23 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   75,704     $   84,450     $   93,570     $   870,390     $   111,203     $   314,640  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.64 %(F)      0.62     0.61     0.61     0.62     0.62

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.63 %(F)      0.62     0.61 %(B)      0.61     0.62     0.62

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.67 %(F)      1.69     1.07 %(B)      1.52     1.81     1.75

Portfolio turnover rate

    38     18     77     171     74     38

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.07     $ 12.10     $ 12.14     $ 12.45     $ 12.58     $ 13.47  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.08       0.17       0.11 (B)       0.17       0.20       0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.23     0.12       (0.09 )(C)      (0.19     0.35       (0.54
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.15     0.29       0.02       (0.02     0.55       (0.34
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.39     (0.06     (0.23     (0.46     (0.26

Net realized gains

          (0.93           (0.06     (0.22     (0.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (1.32     (0.06     (0.29     (0.68     (0.55
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.92     $ 11.07     $ 12.10     $ 12.14     $ 12.45     $ 12.58  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.36 )%(E)      2.36     0.14     (0.18 )%      4.42     (2.49 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   219,891     $   242,695     $   493,733     $   458,000     $   276,838     $   287,781  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.89 %(F)      0.87     0.86     0.86     0.87     0.87

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.88 %(F)      0.87     0.85 %(B)      0.86     0.87     0.87

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.43 %(F)      1.43     0.90 %(B)      1.37     1.58     1.48

Portfolio turnover rate

    38     18     77     171     74     38

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

  $     2,014,970     $             —     $             —     $             —     $     2,014,970  

U.S. Government Obligations

    2,039,330                         2,039,330  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 4,054,300     $     $     $     $ 4,054,300  

Total Borrowings

  $ 4,054,300     $     $     $     $ 4,054,300  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ 401,949     $     $     $     $     $ 401,949  

Total

  $   401,949     $     $     $     $     $   401,949  
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ (1,151,052   $     $     $     $     $ (1,151,052

Total

  $   (1,151,052   $     $     $     $     $   (1,151,052
                                                 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 378,293     $     $     $     $     $ 378,293  

Total

  $ 378,293     $     $     $     $     $ 378,293  
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
38,071,429   (300,000)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK FACTOR

 

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Fixed income risk: The value of fixed income securities may go up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic or political conditions, inflation, changes in interest rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In addition, the value of a fixed income security may decline if the issuer or other obligor of the security fails to pay principal and/or interest, otherwise defaults or has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines. If the value of fixed-income securities owned by the Portfolio fall, the value of your investment will go down. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. Interest rates have been at historically low levels, so the Portfolio faces a heightened risk that interest rates may rise. A general rise in interest rates may cause investors to move out of fixed-income securities on a large scale, which could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed-income securities. A rise in rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.58% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.63      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.88        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

     Amounts Available         
      2017      2018      Total  

Initial Class

   $   —      $   1,919      $   1,919  

Service Class

            5,503        5,503  

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  21,997,224   $  83,159,102     $  38,229,450   $  98,972,484

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  322,959,706

  $  1,197,808   $  (6,709,257)   $  (5,511,449)

11. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

12. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Aegon USA Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 10-year periods and in line with the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1- and 10-year periods and below its benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Trustees also noted recent changes in the Portfolio’s portfolio management team. The Trustees noted that TAM intends to monitor and report to the Board on the portfolio manager transition and performance going forward.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica Aegon U.S. Government Securities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that information about the Sub-Adviser’s revenues and expenses was incorporated into the profitability analysis for TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio. As a result, the Board principally considered profitability information for TAM and its affiliates and the Sub-Adviser in the aggregate.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   993.10     $   4.10     $   1,020.70     $   4.16       0.83
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     95.0

Repurchase Agreement

     5.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANY - 95.0%             
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 95.0%             

American Funds Insurance Series - Asset Allocation Fund

    31,923,221        $  730,403,304  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Company
(Cost $700,267,723)

       730,403,304  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 5.1%             

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (A), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $39,267,853 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $40,053,506.

    $  39,264,909        39,264,909  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $39,264,909)

       39,264,909  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $739,532,632)

       769,668,213  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (840,608
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  768,827,605  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (B)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Investment Company

  $ 730,403,304     $     $     $ 730,403,304  

Repurchase Agreement

          39,264,909             39,264,909  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 730,403,304     $ 39,264,909     $     $ 769,668,213  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(B)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $700,267,723)

  $ 730,403,304  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $39,264,909)

    39,264,909  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    73  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    388,643  

Interest

    1,963  

Prepaid expenses

    2,579  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    770,061,471  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Investments purchased

    643,603  

Investment management fees

    322,940  

Distribution and service fees

    152,330  

Transfer agent costs

    1,072  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,812  

Audit and tax fees

    13,284  

Custody fees

    12,581  

Legal fees

    6,529  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    73,342  

Other

    6,373  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    1,233,866  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   768,827,605  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 667,943  

Additional paid-in capital

    685,263,597  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    8,855,618  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    43,904,866  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    30,135,581  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 768,827,605  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    66,794,333  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 11.51  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 5,155,875  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    125,562  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    5,281,437  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,918,716  

Distribution and service fees

    905,055  

Transfer agent costs

    4,915  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    11,007  

Audit and tax fees

    13,329  

Custody fees

    62,718  

Legal fees

    21,908  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    73,024  

Other

    8,114  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    3,018,786  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,262,651  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Distributions received from unaffiliated investments

    28,491,251  

Futures contracts

    (10,033,162
 

 

 

 
Net realized gain (loss)     18,458,089  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

      (25,900,043
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (7,441,954
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (5,179,303
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,262,651     $ 6,643,769  

Net realized gain (loss)

    18,458,089       25,499,076  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (25,900,043     45,952,700  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (5,179,303     78,095,545  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (3,768,887

Net realized gains

          (530,180
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (4,299,067
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    80,014,597       245,972,390  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          4,299,067  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (9,405,432     (9,934,086
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    70,609,165       240,337,371  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    65,429,862       314,133,849  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    703,397,743       389,263,894  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   768,827,605     $   703,397,743  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 8,855,618     $ 6,592,967  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    6,914,667       22,938,946  

Shares reinvested

          391,180  

Shares redeemed

    (810,359     (888,309
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    6,104,308       22,441,817  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 11.59     $ 10.18      $ 9.62     $ 10.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

     0.04       0.12        0.15 (D)       0.26  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (0.12     1.37        0.47       (0.64
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     (0.08     1.49        0.62       (0.38
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.07      (0.06      

Net realized gains

           (0.01             
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.08      (0.06      
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 11.51     $ 11.59      $ 10.18     $ 9.62  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (E)

     (0.69 )%(F)      14.62      6.41     (3.80 )%(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   768,828     $   703,398      $   389,264     $   129,378  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.83 %(H)      0.82      0.82     0.86 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.83 %(H)      0.82      0.82 %(D)      0.85 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

     0.63 %(H)      1.11      1.56 %(D)      4.10 %(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     %(F)               %(F) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on May 1, 2015.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or over-the-counter (“OTC”).

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease their exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $ 69,040     $   (10,102,202   $     $     $   (10,033,162

Total

  $     $ 69,040     $ (10,102,202   $     $     $ (10,033,162
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
2,264   (1,075,263)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolios may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolios are in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolios fail to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of each Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to each Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

6. INVESTMENT CONCENTRATION

Throughout the period, the Portfolio can have investments that account for a significant percentage of the Portfolio’s total assets. As of June 30, 2018, the most recent financial statements are included within this report for the following investments:

 

Investment    Percentage of
Total Assets
 

American Funds Insurance Series – Asset Allocation Fund

     94.85

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $2 billion

     0.53

Over $2 billion up to $4 billion

     0.52  

Over $4 billion up to $6 billion

     0.50  

Over $6 billion up to $8 billion

     0.49  

Over $8 billion up to $10 billion

     0.48  

Over $10 billion

     0.46  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     0.85      May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  53,323,680     $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  739,532,632   $  30,135,581   $  —   $  30,135,581

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe and above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the median for its peer group and above the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica American Funds Managed Risk VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

    $  1,000.00       $  972.30       $  3.47       $  1,021.30       $  3.56       0.71

Service Class

    1,000.00       971.50       4.69       1,020.00       4.81       0.96  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     99.3

Repurchase Agreement

     1.1  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.4

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
   Allocations are subject to change.
 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 99.3%  
Aerospace & Defense - 4.8%  

General Dynamics Corp.

    90,100        $  16,795,541  

United Technologies Corp.

    204,164        25,526,625  
    

 

 

 
       42,322,166  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 1.8%  

Southwest Airlines Co.

    320,500        16,307,040  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.9%  

Adient PLC (A)

    160,665        7,903,111  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 12.8%  

Bank of America Corp.

    1,202,498        33,898,419  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    288,749        30,087,646  

US Bancorp

    335,327        16,773,056  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    581,400        32,232,816  
    

 

 

 
       112,991,937  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 2.6%  

Johnson Controls International PLC

    688,852        23,042,099  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 3.3%  

State Street Corp.

    315,800        29,397,822  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 5.2%  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    487,021        32,104,425  

Praxair, Inc.

    87,074        13,770,753  
    

 

 

 
       45,875,178  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 3.8%  

American Express Co.

    346,500        33,957,000  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 5.6%  

AT&T, Inc.

    605,442        19,440,743  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    602,000        30,286,620  
    

 

 

 
       49,727,363  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 4.8%  

Entergy Corp.

    316,200        25,545,798  

Exelon Corp.

    394,527        16,806,850  
    

 

 

 
       42,352,648  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.9%  

Schlumberger, Ltd.

    122,405        8,204,807  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.8%  

HCP, Inc.

    604,556        15,609,636  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 3.4%  

Walmart, Inc.

    352,400        30,183,060  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.1%  

Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A

    147,200        10,134,720  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 2.6%  

Cardinal Health, Inc.

    209,600        10,234,768  

CVS Health Corp.

    204,926        13,186,988  
    

 

 

 
       23,421,756  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.9%  

Whirlpool Corp.

    51,700        7,560,091  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.9%  

General Electric Co.

    1,221,800        16,628,698  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Insurance - 5.0%  

Loews Corp.

    373,700        $   18,042,236  

XL Group, Ltd.

    463,800        25,949,610  
    

 

 

 
       43,991,846  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 2.6%  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    169,931        22,568,536  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 1.2%  

Target Corp.

    144,800          11,022,176  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 15.7%  

BP PLC, ADR

    801,248        36,584,984  

Chevron Corp.

    160,500        20,292,015  

ConocoPhillips

    453,731        31,588,752  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    300,959        25,184,249  

Phillips 66

    226,879        25,480,781  
    

 

 

 
       139,130,781  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 11.8%  

Johnson & Johnson

    261,300        31,706,142  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    319,833        19,413,863  

Pfizer, Inc.

    1,140,300        41,370,084  

Sanofi, ADR

    309,300        12,375,093  
    

 

 

 
       104,865,182  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 4.8%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    339,700        19,291,563  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    282,300        22,792,902  
    

 

 

 
       42,084,465  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $728,478,424)

       879,282,118  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.0% (B)  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    105,324        105,324  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $105,324)

       105,324  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.1%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $10,181,168 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $10,384,968.

    $  10,180,404        10,180,404  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $10,180,404)

       10,180,404  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $738,764,152)

       889,567,846  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.4)%

 

     (3,896,760
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  885,671,086  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 879,282,118     $     $     $ 879,282,118  

Securities Lending Collateral

    105,324                   105,324  

Repurchase Agreement

          10,180,404             10,180,404  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 879,387,442     $ 10,180,404     $     $ 889,567,846  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $103,102. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Investments, at value (cost $728,583,748) (including securities loaned of $103,102)

   $ 879,387,442  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $10,180,404)

     10,180,404  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

     52,106  

Investments sold

     3,099,367  

Interest

     255  

Dividends

     1,770,899  

Net income from securities lending

     73  

Prepaid expenses

     3,244  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     894,493,790  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     526,084  

Investments purchased

     7,542,814  

Investment management fees

     486,276  

Distribution and service fees

     53,522  

Transfer agent costs

     1,899  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     3,602  

Audit and tax fees

     16,213  

Custody fees

     5,175  

Legal fees

     13,024  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     57,805  

Other

     10,966  

Collateral for securities on loan

     105,324  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     8,822,704  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   885,671,086  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 355,207  

Additional paid-in capital

     653,429,565  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     28,138,678  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     52,943,942  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     150,803,694  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 885,671,086  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 620,236,265  

Service Class

     265,434,821  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     24,867,365  

Service Class

     10,653,346  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 24.94  

Service Class

     24.92  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income

   $ 13,805,369  

Interest income

     36,445  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     9,452  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

     (79,910
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     13,771,356  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     3,118,911  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     342,768  

Transfer agent costs

     6,749  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     14,582  

Audit and tax fees

     15,982  

Custody fees

     36,632  

Legal fees

     27,164  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     28,621  

Other

     12,687  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

     3,604,096  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     10,167,260  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Investments

     60,894,993  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     (96,921,331
  

 

 

 
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)      (36,026,338
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   (25,859,078
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 10,167,260     $ 17,873,481  

Net realized gain (loss)

    60,894,993       24,793,314  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (96,921,331     98,139,901  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (25,859,078     140,806,696  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (14,885,669

Service Class

          (5,938,158
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (20,823,827
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

   

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    2,067,087       44,618,725  

Service Class

    6,570,557       20,954,906  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    8,637,644       65,573,631  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          14,885,669  

Service Class

          5,938,158  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          20,823,827  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (46,035,920     (115,331,637

Service Class

    (21,735,651     (38,780,379
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (67,771,571       (154,112,016
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (59,133,927     (67,714,558
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (84,993,005     52,268,311  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    970,664,091       918,395,780  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   885,671,086     $ 970,664,091  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 28,138,678     $ 17,971,418  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    81,363       1,893,960  

Service Class

    260,332       887,821  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    341,695       2,781,781  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          639,144  

Service Class

          254,638  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          893,782  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,810,564     (4,885,286

Service Class

    (856,413     (1,618,880
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,666,977     (6,504,166
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (1,729,201     (2,352,182

Service Class

    (596,081     (476,421
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,325,282     (2,828,603
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 25.65     $ 22.58     $ 20.07     $ 21.24     $ 19.19     $ 15.08  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.29       0.49       0.51 (B)       0.43       0.36       0.29  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (1.00     3.16       2.46       (1.20     1.96       4.23  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.71     3.65       2.97       (0.77     2.32       4.52  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.58     (0.46     (0.40     (0.27     (0.41
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 24.94     $ 25.65     $ 22.58     $ 20.07     $ 21.24     $ 19.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (2.77 )%(D)      16.43 %(E)      14.91     (3.59 )%      12.17     30.24
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   620,236     $   682,104     $   653,533     $   639,203     $   787,329     $   727,690  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.71 %(F)      0.71     0.71     0.71     0.71     0.76

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.71 %(F)      0.71     0.70 %(B)      0.71     0.71     0.76

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.29 %(F)      2.02     2.45 %(B)      2.08     1.80     1.64

Portfolio turnover rate

    9 %(D)      11     11     9     14     100

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Total return reflects certain litigation payments received by the Portfolio in the year. Had these payments not occurred, the total return would be 0.15% lower.
(F)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 25.65     $ 22.59     $ 20.09     $ 21.26     $ 19.22     $ 15.11  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.26       0.43       0.46 (B)       0.38       0.31       0.24  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.99     3.16       2.45       (1.20     1.97       4.24  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.73     3.59       2.91       (0.82     2.28       4.48  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.53     (0.41     (0.35     (0.24     (0.37
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 24.92     $ 25.65     $ 22.59     $ 20.09     $ 21.26     $ 19.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (2.85 )%(D)      16.13 %(E)      14.59     (3.83 )%      11.94     29.93
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   265,435     $   288,560     $   264,863     $   209,780     $   223,038     $   150,270  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(F)      0.96     0.96     0.96     0.96     1.01

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(F)      0.96     0.95 %(B)      0.96     0.96     1.01

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.04 %(F)      1.77     2.21 %(B)      1.83     1.54     1.41

Portfolio turnover rate

    9 %(D)      11     11     9     14     100

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Total return reflects certain litigation payments received by the Portfolio in the year. Had these payments not occurred, the total return would be 0.15% lower.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $3,213.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Common Stocks

  $ 105,324     $     $     $     $ 105,324  

Total Borrowings

  $   105,324     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   105,324  
                                         

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $200 million

     0.78

Over $200 million up to $500 million

     0.68  

Over $500 million

     0.63  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.85      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.10        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  78,179,983   $  —     $  126,167,199   $  —

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  738,764,152   $  181,032,694   $  (30,229,000)   $  150,803,694

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 5-year periods, in line with the median for the past 3-year period and below the median for the past 10-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1- and 3-year periods and below its benchmark for the past 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on May 1, 2013 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees and TAM agreed upon an additional breakpoint to the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

       

Actual Expenses

 

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

   
Class   Beginning
Account Value
  Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
  Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
  Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
  Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
  Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)

Service Class

  $  1,000.00   $  1,011.60   $  2.79   $  1,022.00   $  2.81   0.56%

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     75.8

International Equity Funds

     24.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.5

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 100.5%  
International Equity Funds - 24.7%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol EAFE ETF

    174,781        $  12,433,920  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol Emerging Markets ETF

    59,695        3,452,759  
    

 

 

 
       15,886,679  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 75.8%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF

    200,225        10,643,961  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF

    98,557        10,811,703  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF

    127,186        10,613,672  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Size Factor ETF

    74,186        6,227,930  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Value Factor ETF

    126,253        10,429,760  
    

 

 

 
       48,727,026  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $56,951,922)

 

     64,613,705  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $56,951,922)

 

     64,613,705  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.5)%

       (321,236
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  64,292,469  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (A)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 64,613,705     $     $     $ 64,613,705  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 64,613,705     $     $     $ 64,613,705  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $56,951,922)

  $   64,613,705  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Dividends

    239,628  

Prepaid expenses

    242  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    64,853,575  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    14,112  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    395,873  

Investments purchased

    114,123  

Investment management fees

    12,520  

Distribution and service fees

    13,036  

Transfer agent costs

    79  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    168  

Audit and tax fees

    8,600  

Custody fees

    1,347  

Legal fees

    555  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    306  

Other

    387  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    561,106  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 64,292,469  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 48,990  

Additional paid-in capital

    54,200,795  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    1,239,120  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    1,141,781  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    7,661,783  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 64,292,469  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    4,899,013  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 13.12  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 716,398  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    716,398  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    95,298  

Distribution and service fees

    79,415  

Transfer agent costs

    422  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    971  

Audit and tax fees

    8,575  

Custody fees

    5,723  

Legal fees

    2,009  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    682  

Other

    608  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    193,703  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

    (16,469

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees

    654  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    177,888  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    538,510  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    517,856  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

      (269,771
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    248,085  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 786,595  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:    

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 538,510     $ 725,671  

Net realized gain (loss)

    517,856       646,306  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (269,771     8,082,591  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    786,595       9,454,568  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (255,459

Net realized gains

          (47,245
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (302,704
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    6,318,298       34,604,061  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          302,704  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (3,796,385     (7,456,812
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    2,521,913       27,449,953  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    3,308,508       36,601,817  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    60,983,961       24,382,144  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   64,292,469     $   60,983,961  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,239,120     $ 700,610  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    486,758       3,011,689  

Shares reinvested

          25,675  

Shares redeemed

    (288,485     (638,966
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    198,273       2,398,398  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods and year indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 12.97     $ 10.59     $ 10.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

     0.11       0.19       0.35  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     0.04       2.26       0.24 (D)  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.15       2.45       0.59  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.06      

Net realized gains

           (0.01      
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.07      
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 13.12     $ 12.97     $ 10.59  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (E)

     1.16 %(F)      23.23     5.90 %(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   64,292     $   60,984     $   24,382  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.61 %(H)      0.63     1.18 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.56 %(H)      0.56     0.56 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

     1.70 %(H)      1.58     4.31 %(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     4 %(F)      16     20 %(F) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on March 21, 2016.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

 

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rate:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1 billion

     0.30

Over $1 billion

     0.28  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Service Class

     0.56    May 1, 2019

 

(A)   TAM has contractually agreed to waive 0.05% of its management fee through May 1, 2019. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available  

Total

2016 (A)   2017   2018
$  29,894   $  8,361   $  587   $  38,842

 

(A)   Commenced operations on March 21, 2016.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  6,186,541     $  2,736,759

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  56,951,922

  $  7,661,783   $  —   $  7,661,783

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Equity Smart Beta 100 VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe and above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the medians for its peer group and below the medians for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   976.70     $   2.79     $   1,022.00     $   2.86       0.57
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

International Mixed Allocation Fund

     95.1

Repurchase Agreement

     5.0  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANY - 95.1%  
International Mixed Allocation Fund - 95.1%  

Transamerica Blackrock Global Allocation VP (A)

    23,191,729        $  216,146,915  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Company
(Cost $214,326,381)

 

     216,146,915  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 5.0%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $11,455,770 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $11,687,776.

    $  11,454,911        11,454,911  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $11,454,911)

 

     11,454,911  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $225,781,292)

 

     227,601,826  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (196,162
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  227,405,664  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Investment Company

  $ 216,146,915     $     $     $ 216,146,915  

Repurchase Agreement

          11,454,911             11,454,911  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 216,146,915     $ 11,454,911     $     $ 227,601,826  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.
(B)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018 (unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $214,326,381)

   $ 216,146,915  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $11,454,911)

     11,454,911  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

  

Futures contracts

     26  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

     20,894  

Interest

     286  

Prepaid expenses

     722  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     227,623,754  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     26,675  

Affiliated investments purchased

     85,882  

Investment management fees

     36,912  

Distribution and service fees

     44,728  

Transfer agent costs

     356  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     540  

Audit and tax fees

     9,705  

Custody fees

     3,847  

Legal fees

     1,964  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     5,690  

Variation margin payable on futures contracts

     3  

Other

     1,788  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     218,090  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   227,405,664  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 235,627  

Additional paid-in capital

     230,014,274  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     2,095,782  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     (6,760,553

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     1,820,534  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 227,405,664  
  

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

     23,562,651  
  

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 9.65  
  

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018 (unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Interest income from repurchase agreement

   $ 36,795  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     36,795  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     299,074  

Distribution and service fees

     267,031  

Transfer agent costs

     1,455  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     3,247  

Audit and tax fees

     9,486  

Custody fees

     19,840  

Legal fees

     6,233  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     3,761  

Other

     2,128  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     612,255  
  

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

     (15,202

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees

     11,779  
  

 

 

 

Net expenses

     608,832  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     (572,037
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Futures contracts

     (1,744,869

Foreign currency transactions

     6  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

     (1,744,863
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     (2,916,255
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     (4,661,118
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   (5,233,155
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ (572,037   $ 2,717,838  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,744,863     1  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (2,916,255     19,401,117  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (5,233,155     22,118,956  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (1,296,982
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    27,985,172       31,984,501  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          1,296,982  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (3,111,303     (15,764,342
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    24,873,869       17,517,141  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    19,640,714       38,339,115  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    207,764,950       169,425,835  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   227,405,664     $   207,764,950  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,095,782     $ 2,667,819  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    2,851,555       3,417,306  

Shares reinvested

          136,668  

Shares redeemed

    (315,349     (1,683,908
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    2,536,206       1,870,066  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 9.88     $ 8.84     $ 9.59     $ 9.93     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

    (0.03     0.13       0.07 (D)       0.41       (0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.20     0.97       (0.03 )(E)      (0.75     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.23     1.10       0.04       (0.34     (0.07
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.06     (0.18            

Net realized gains

                (0.61            
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.06     (0.79            
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.65     $ 9.88     $ 8.84     $ 9.59     $ 9.93  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (F)

    (2.33 )%(G)      12.51     0.37     (3.42 )%      (0.70 )%(G) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   227,406     $   207,765     $   169,426     $   131,427     $   9,811  

Expenses to average net assets (H)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.57 %(I)      0.56     0.59     0.60     2.31 %(I) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.57 %(I)      0.57     0.57 %(D)      0.57     0.57 %(I) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

    (0.54 )%(I)      1.42     0.79 %(D)      4.16     (0.57 )%(I) 

Portfolio turnover rate (J)

    %(G)                  %(G) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on November 10, 2014.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(E)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(F)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(G)    Not annualized.
(H)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(I)    Annualized.
(J)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk—Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

 

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $ 48,332     $ (1,769,176   $     $ (24,025   $ (1,744,869

Total

  $     $ 48,332     $   (1,769,176   $     $ (24,025   $   (1,744,869
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
  (1,843,654)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. INVESTMENT CONCENTRATION

 

Throughout the period, the Portfolio can have investments that account for a significant percentage of the Portfolio’s total assets. As of June 30, 2018, the most recent financial statements are included within this report for the following investments:

 

Investment    Percentage of
Total Assets
 

Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

     94.96

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

All of the Portfolio holdings in investment companies are considered affiliated. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains (losses) are broken out within the Statement of Operations.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $2 billion

     0.28

Over $2 billion up to $4 billion

     0.27  

Over $4 billion up to $6 billion

     0.25  

Over $6 billion up to $8 billion

     0.24  

Over $8 billion up to $10 billion

     0.23  

Over $10 billion

     0.22  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     0.57        May 1, 2019  

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available  

Total

2015   2016   2017   2018
$  —   $  31,389   $  6,762   $  15,202   $  53,353

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  21,026,602     $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  225,781,292   $  1,820,534   $  —   $  1,820,534

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its composite benchmark for the past 1- and 3-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the median for its peer group and above the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   967.40     $   2.93     $   1,021.80     $   3.01       0.60
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

International Mixed Allocation Fund

     95.1

Repurchase Agreement

     3.5  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     1.4  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

  

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANY - 95.1%  
International Mixed Allocation Fund - 95.1%  

Transamerica Blackrock Global Allocation VP (A)

    21,656,259        $  201,836,337  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Company
(Cost $201,336,624)

 

     201,836,337  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 3.5%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $7,491,295 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $7,641,819.

    $  7,490,733        $   7,490,733  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $7,490,733)

 

     7,490,733  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $208,827,357)

 

     209,327,070  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 1.4%

       2,927,979  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  212,255,049  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                              
Description   Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

EUR Currency

    Long        74       09/17/2018     $   11,006,118     $   10,856,263     $   —     $ (149,855

EURO STOXX 50® Index

    Long        222       09/21/2018       8,959,891       8,791,222             (168,669

FTSE 100 Index

    Long        15       09/21/2018       1,506,703       1,504,812             (1,891

GBP Currency

    Long        24       09/17/2018       2,022,919       1,985,400             (37,519

JPY Currency

    Long        68       09/17/2018       7,752,886       7,707,375             (45,511

MSCI Emerging Markets Index

    Long        108       09/21/2018       6,102,471       5,741,820             (360,651

Nikkei 225 Index

    Long        37       09/13/2018       7,491,506       7,449,126             (42,380

Russell 2000® Mini Index

    Long        4       09/21/2018       335,053       329,500             (5,553

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long        198       09/21/2018       27,482,548       26,943,840             (538,708

S&P MidCap 400® E-Mini Index

    Long        10       09/21/2018       1,994,807       1,956,100             (38,707
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

             $     $   (1,389,444
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Investment Company

  $ 201,836,337     $     $     $ 201,836,337  

Repurchase Agreement

          7,490,733             7,490,733  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 201,836,337     $ 7,490,733     $     $ 209,327,070  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
LIABILITIES                        

Other Financial Instruments

       

Futures Contracts (D)

  $ (1,389,444   $     $     $ (1,389,444
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (1,389,444   $     $     $ (1,389,444
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.
(B)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(D)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
JPY    Japanese Yen

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

FTSE    Financial Times Stock Exchange
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $201,336,624)

  $   201,836,337  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $7,490,733)

    7,490,733  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    2,727,510  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Interest

    187  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    328,335  

Prepaid expenses

    790  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    212,383,892  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    23,952  

Investment management fees

    34,911  

Distribution and service fees

    42,699  

Transfer agent costs

    337  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    680  

Audit and tax fees

    9,692  

Custody fees

    5,778  

Legal fees

    1,975  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    7,014  

Other

    1,805  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    128,843  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 212,255,049  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 216,635  

Additional paid-in capital

    212,574,188  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    2,013,206  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (1,670,156

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    499,713  

Futures contracts

    (1,389,444

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    10,907  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 212,255,049  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    21,663,454  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 9.80  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income from repurchase agreement

  $ 35,268  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    35,268  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    324,937  

Distribution and service fees

    270,781  

Transfer agent costs

    1,516  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    3,366  

Audit and tax fees

    9,521  

Custody fees

    27,095  

Legal fees

    6,474  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    4,637  

Other

    2,177  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    650,504  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

    (18,875

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees

    18,248  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    649,877  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    (614,609
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    (260,993

Futures contracts

    (1,735,668

Foreign currency transactions

    7,334  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,989,327
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (2,655,303

Futures contracts

    (2,151,341

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    89,238  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (4,717,406
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (6,706,733
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (7,321,342
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ (614,609   $ 2,570,324  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,989,327     7,514,468  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (4,717,406     20,670,191  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (7,321,342     30,754,983  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (1,230,295
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    8,885,222       30,316,217  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          1,230,295  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (7,782,312     (18,414,073
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    1,102,910       13,132,439  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (6,218,432     42,657,127  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    218,473,481       175,816,354  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   212,255,049     $   218,473,481  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,013,206     $ 2,627,815  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    873,946       3,156,322  

Shares reinvested

          129,233  

Shares redeemed

    (774,050     (2,037,357
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    99,896       1,248,198  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 10.13     $ 8.65     $ 9.39     $ 9.89      $ 10.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

     (0.03     0.13       0.06 (D)       0.39        (0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (0.30     1.41       (0.08     (0.89      (0.10
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     (0.33     1.54       (0.02     (0.50      (0.11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.06     (0.19             

Net realized gains

                 (0.53             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.06     (0.72             
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 9.80     $ 10.13     $ 8.65     $ 9.39      $ 9.89  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (E)

     (3.26 )%(F)      17.87     (0.19 )%      (5.06 )%       (1.10 )%(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   212,255     $   218,473     $   175,816     $   155,154      $   10,960  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.60 %(H)      0.60     0.63     0.63      2.31 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.60 %(H)(I)      0.61 %(J)      0.61 %(D)      0.60      0.60 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

     (0.57 )%(H)      1.36     0.72 %(D)      4.01      (0.60 )%(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (K)

     2 %(F)      4     2          %(F) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on November 10, 2014.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(J)    Includes interest fee on cash at broker transactions, representing 0.01% of average net assets.
(K)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk—Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $ (232,885   $ (1,156,559   $     $     $ (1,389,444

Total

  $     $   (232,885   $   (1,156,559   $     $     $   (1,389,444
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $ 337,265     $ (2,072,933   $     $     $ (1,735,668

Total

  $     $   337,265     $   (2,072,933   $     $     $   (1,735,668
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $ (544,534   $ (1,606,807   $     $     $ (2,151,341

Total

  $     $   (544,534   $   (1,606,807   $     $     $   (2,151,341
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
7,353,066   (3,426)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of each Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to each Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

6. INVESTMENT CONCENTRATION

Throughout the period, the Portfolio can have investments that account for a significant percentage of the Portfolio’s total assets. As of June 30, 2018, the most recent financial statements are included within this report for the following investments:

 

Investment    Percentage of
Total Assets
 

Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

     95.09

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

All of the Portfolio holdings in investment companies are considered affiliated. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains (losses) are broken out within the Statement of Operations.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $2 billion

     0.30

Over $2 billion up to $4 billion

     0.29  

Over $4 billion up to $6 billion

     0.27  

Over $6 billion up to $8 billion

     0.26  

Over $8 billion up to $10 billion

     0.25  

Over $10 billion

     0.24  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Service Class

     0.60      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available    
2015   2016   2017   2018   Total
$  —   $  18,529   $  8,539   $  18,875   $  45,943

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  3,494,165     $  4,318,029

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  208,827,357   $  499,713   $  (1,389,444)   $  (889,731)

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3-year period.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation Managed Risk – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   986.20     $   3.89     $   1,020.90     $   3.96       0.79

Service Class

    1,000.00       984.60       5.12       1,019.60       5.21       1.04  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     55.8

U.S. Government Obligations

     18.2  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     14.0  

Foreign Government Obligations

     5.8  

Corporate Debt Securities

     2.8  

Exchange-Traded Funds

     2.6  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

     1.0  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.7  

Convertible Preferred Stocks

     0.6  

Preferred Stocks

     0.5  

Convertible Bonds

     0.4  

Repurchase Agreements

     0.3  

Master Limited Partnership

     0.2  

Over-the-Counter Options Purchased

     0.2  

Loan Assignments

     0.1  

Rights

     0.0

Warrants

     0.0

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

     0.0

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

     0.0

Common Stocks Sold Short

     (0.4

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (2.8

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 55.8%  
Australia - 0.0% (A)  

AMP, Ltd.

    4,839        $  12,749  

Newcrest Mining, Ltd.

    154        2,484  

Ramsay Health Care, Ltd.

    195        7,790  

South32, Ltd.

    2,593        6,927  

Stockland, REIT

    4,033        11,849  

Wesfarmers, Ltd.

    1,308        47,780  

Woolworths Group, Ltd.

    1,646        37,177  
    

 

 

 
       126,756  
    

 

 

 
Belgium - 0.4%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA

    78,498        7,929,452  
    

 

 

 
Brazil - 0.5%  

Azul SA, ADR (B) (C)

    337,623        5,523,512  

Banco do Brasil SA (B)

    2,148        15,878  

Banco Santander Brasil SA

    1,167        8,822  

Hapvida Participacoes e Investimentos SA (B) (D)

    138,569        1,068,652  

JBS SA

    9,034        21,678  

Notre Dame Intermedica Participacoes SA (B)

    330,921        1,844,261  

Petroleo Brasileiro SA (B)

    312        1,563  

Suzano Papel e Celulose SA

    373        4,328  

Vale SA (B)

    1,048        13,409  
    

 

 

 
       8,502,103  
    

 

 

 
Canada - 0.7%  

Bank of Nova Scotia

    317        17,950  

Canadian Natural Resources, Ltd.

    696        25,121  

Enbridge, Inc.

    81,849        2,926,180  

Encana Corp.

    541,660        7,068,663  

Husky Energy, Inc. (C)

    1,871        29,161  

Imperial Oil, Ltd.

    343        11,402  

Manulife Financial Corp.

    798        14,337  

Royal Bank of Canada

    951        71,608  

Suncor Energy, Inc.

    777        31,620  

Teck Resources, Ltd., Class B

    1,521        38,747  

Toronto-Dominion Bank

    309        17,884  

TransCanada Corp. (C)

    71,779        3,105,610  
    

 

 

 
       13,358,283  
    

 

 

 
Cayman Islands - 0.0% (A)  

Country Garden Holdings Co., Ltd. (B)

    1,149        1,473  
    

 

 

 
China - 1.3%  

Agile Group Holdings, Ltd.

    4,000        6,811  

Agricultural Bank of China, Ltd., H Shares

    38,000        17,776  

Alibaba Group Holding, Ltd., ADR (B)

    57,464        10,661,296  

Autohome, Inc., ADR

    10        1,010  

BAIC Motor Corp., Ltd., H Shares (D)

    20,000        19,119  

Bank of China, Ltd., Class H

    34,000        16,858  

Beijing Capital International Airport Co., Ltd., Class H

    26,000        27,406  

China Communications Services Corp., Ltd., H Shares

    34,000        21,538  

China Construction Bank Corp., Class H

    39,000        36,039  

China National Building Material Co., Ltd., H Shares

    8,000        7,923  

CNOOC, Ltd.

    27,000        46,597  

Country Garden Holdings Co., Ltd.

    6,000        10,554  

Dongfeng Motor Group Co., Ltd., Class H

    20,000        21,158  

Fosun International, Ltd.

    5,500        10,347  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
China (continued)  

Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd., Class H

    14,000        $   13,687  

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Ltd., Class H

    37,000        27,683  

Momo, Inc., ADR (B)

    135        5,873  

New Oriental Education & Technology Group, Inc., ADR

    361        34,172  

PICC Property & Casualty Co., Ltd., Class H

    6,000        6,478  

Ping An Healthcare and Technology (B) (D)

    318,500        2,027,770  

SINA Corp. (B)

    451        38,195  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

    227,800        11,434,134  

Want Want China Holdings, Ltd.

    730,000        649,460  

Yum China Holdings, Inc.

    237        9,115  

Zhejiang Expressway Co., Ltd., H Shares

    24,000        21,413  
    

 

 

 
       25,172,412  
    

 

 

 
Czech Republic - 0.0% (A)  

CEZ AS

    35,563        843,023  
    

 

 

 
Denmark - 0.0% (A)  

Carlsberg A/S, Class B

    114        13,430  

Danske Bank A/S

    766        23,983  

Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B

    54        2,505  
    

 

 

 
       39,918  
    

 

 

 
Finland - 0.0% (A)  

Nokia OYJ

    8,664        49,881  
    

 

 

 
France - 2.2%  

AXA SA

    150,063        3,682,744  

BNP Paribas SA

    581        36,089  

Cie de Saint-Gobain

    1,212        54,166  

Cie Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA

    143        17,418  

Credit Agricole SA

    942        12,579  

Danone SA

    175,732        12,902,171  

Dassault Aviation SA

    2,057        3,920,333  

Eiffage SA

    3,776        410,888  

Engie SA

    2,014        30,881  

L’Oreal SA

    8        1,976  

Safran SA

    100,535        12,215,967  

Sanofi

    551        44,173  

Societe Generale SA (C)

    580        24,461  

Sodexo SA

    69,903        6,989,394  

TOTAL SA

    227        13,840  

TOTAL SA, ADR

    3,069        185,859  
    

 

 

 
       40,542,939  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 1.5%  

adidas AG

    118        25,762  

Allianz SE

    102        21,086  

BASF SE

    212        20,279  

Bayer AG

    125,866        13,868,159  

Deutsche Post AG

    916        29,920  

Evonik Industries AG

    43        1,473  

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

    243        24,512  

Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA

    174,809        14,044,966  

GEA Group AG

    21,700        732,109  

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG

    44        9,303  

SAP SE

    591        68,292  

Siemens Healthineers AG (B) (D)

    394        16,267  
    

 

 

 
       28,862,128  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Hong Kong - 0.8%  

China Mobile, Ltd.

    4,000        $   35,536  

China Resources Gas Group, Ltd.

    2,000        8,667  

China Resources Power Holdings Co., Ltd.

    6,000        10,569  

CITIC, Ltd.

    5,000        7,049  

CK Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd.

    66,500        492,885  

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

    77,000        829,318  

Galaxy Entertainment Group, Ltd.

    4,000        30,973  

Hang Lung Properties, Ltd.

    253,000        521,762  

HKT Trust & HKT, Ltd.

    375,000        480,843  

Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, Ltd.

    500        15,040  

I-CABLE Communications, Ltd. (B)

    70,516        1,106  

Jardine Matheson Holdings, Ltd.

    14,300        902,330  

Link REIT

    87,500        799,094  

Power Assets Holdings, Ltd.

    61,000        426,462  

Shimao Property Holdings, Ltd.

    1,000        2,626  

Sino Land Co., Ltd.

    262,000        426,114  

Sun Hung Kai Properties, Ltd.

    547,000        8,254,920  

Swire Pacific, Ltd., Class A

    59,000        624,923  

WH Group, Ltd. (D)

    35,000        28,506  

Wharf Holdings, Ltd.

    108,000        346,895  

Wharf Real Estate Investment Co., Ltd.

    86,000        612,203  
    

 

 

 
       14,857,821  
    

 

 

 
Indonesia - 0.1%  

Siloam International Hospitals Tbk PT (B)

    2,814,903        1,026,369  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 0.1%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    2,402        392,943  

Medtronic PLC

    7,189        615,451  
    

 

 

 
       1,008,394  
    

 

 

 
Israel - 0.0% (A)  

Check Point Software Technologies, Ltd. (B)

    202        19,731  
    

 

 

 
Italy - 0.9%  

Atlantia SpA

    116        3,430  

Ei Towers SpA

    56,134        3,103,948  

Enel SpA

    777,657        4,320,059  

Eni SpA

    1,142        21,213  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

    2,870        8,334  

Luxottica Group SpA

    82,264        5,308,712  

RAI Way SpA (D)

    392,001        1,835,693  

Snam SpA

    64,381        268,859  

Telecom Italia SpA (B)

    2,783,959        2,072,256  

Telecom Italia SpA

    148,581        97,098  

UniCredit SpA

    1,103        18,414  
    

 

 

 
       17,058,016  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 8.5%  

Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.

    42,900        1,956,781  

Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

    246,300        4,662,826  

Alfresa Holdings Corp.

    19,300        454,107  

Alpine Electronics, Inc. (C)

    13,500        278,743  

Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.

    100        3,897  

Asahi Kasei Corp.

    239,000        3,039,444  

Astellas Pharma, Inc.

    512,400        7,816,859  

Bridgestone Corp.

    130,600        5,111,230  

Canon Marketing Japan, Inc.

    16,400        341,880  

COMSYS Holdings Corp.

    19,200        509,676  

Daicel Corp.

    71,800        795,076  

Daikin Industries, Ltd.

    25,200        3,020,404  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd.

    700        $   23,874  

Denso Corp.

    101,000        4,937,109  

DOWA Holdings Co., Ltd.

    9,100        280,689  

East Japan Railway Co.

    103,500        9,923,249  

Eisai Co., Ltd.

    100        7,049  

Exedy Corp.

    11,300        350,079  

Fujitsu, Ltd.

    6,000        36,407  

GS Yuasa Corp.

    77,000        351,217  

Hino Motors, Ltd.

    34,100        364,362  

Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.

    24,900        502,655  

Hitachi, Ltd.

    8,000        56,476  

Hoya Corp.

    116,600        6,633,820  

Inpex Corp.

    800        8,306  

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

    236,800        8,401,304  

Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, Ltd.

    23,000        362,507  

Japan Post Holdings Co., Ltd.

    1,300        14,243  

JFE Holdings, Inc.

    700        13,252  

Kajima Corp.

    1,000        7,750  

Kamigumi Co., Ltd.

    17,400        361,940  

Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc.

    400        5,838  

Kao Corp.

    100        7,632  

KDDI Corp.

    25,700        703,579  

Keyence Corp.

    1,400        791,076  

Kinden Corp.

    58,300        953,105  

Kintetsu Group Holdings Co., Ltd.

    300        12,248  

Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd.

    400        10,705  

Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    40,300        2,664,463  

Kuraray Co., Ltd.

    24,400        336,308  

Kyudenko Corp.

    9,600        463,894  

Mabuchi Motor Co., Ltd.

    13,800        656,876  

Maeda Road Construction Co., Ltd.

    23,000        437,709  

Medipal Holdings Corp.

    22,100        444,735  

Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp.

    1,400        11,727  

Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

    679,700        9,052,230  

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    100        3,641  

Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corp.

    800        13,830  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

    3,700        21,091  

MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, Inc.

    500        15,553  

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    71,300        11,991,203  

Nichias Corp.

    24,000        300,881  

Nippo Corp.

    23,000        419,636  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    13,500        614,063  

Nippon Television Holdings, Inc.

    44,100        744,460  

Nitto Denko Corp.

    129,800        9,828,058  

Nomura Holdings, Inc.

    2,500        12,153  

Okumura Corp.

    21,300        695,475  

Olympus Corp.

    500        18,742  

Oracle Corp.

    400        32,697  

Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd.

    7,700        373,055  

Panasonic Corp.

    1,400        18,885  

Rakuten, Inc.

    3,500        23,691  

Resona Holdings, Inc.

    4,800        25,692  

Rohm Co., Ltd.

    53,000        4,451,971  

Seino Holdings Co., Ltd.

    25,200        447,029  

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.

    6,800        296,715  

Shimamura Co., Ltd.

    3,300        290,611  

Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.

    87,500        7,802,804  

Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

    1,000        51,402  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

Sony Corp.

    800        $   40,927  

Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.

    11,400        389,216  

Subaru Corp.

    303,200        8,831,866  

Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.

    1,000        5,672  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    100        3,889  

Suzuken Co., Ltd.

    9,800        415,138  

Suzuki Motor Corp.

    170,400        9,416,133  

T&D Holdings, Inc.

    100        1,503  

Taisei Corp.

    500        27,593  

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (C)

    300        12,676  

Toagosei Co., Ltd.

    23,300        269,376  

Toda Corp.

    105,000        914,239  

Toho Co., Ltd.

    14,800        496,608  

Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.

    67,900        3,184,796  

Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd.

    244,700        6,499,032  

Tokyo Steel Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    66,700        592,809  

Toray Industries, Inc.

    257,500        2,032,742  

Toshiba Corp. (B)

    4,000        12,031  

Toyota Industries Corp.

    98,100        5,502,425  

TV Asahi Holdings Corp.

    32,100        705,408  

Ube Industries, Ltd.

    129,500        3,367,480  

Unicharm Corp.

    600        18,063  

Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.

    100        6,684  

Yamato Kogyo Co., Ltd.

    13,500        407,872  
    

 

 

 
       158,826,852  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 0.0% (A)  

ArcelorMittal

    163        4,780  
    

 

 

 
Macau - 0.0% (A)  

Sands China, Ltd.

    1,200        6,416  
    

 

 

 
Malaysia - 0.0% (A)  

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd.

    123,900        269,915  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.0% (A)  

Cemex SAB de CV (B)

    69,855        45,972  

Grupo Financiero Banorte SAB de CV, Class O

    2,075        12,201  
    

 

 

 
       58,173  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 2.4%  

ABN AMRO Group NV, CVA (D)

    167,417        4,344,223  

ING Groep NV

    510,965        7,356,178  

Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize NV

    546        13,074  

Koninklijke DSM NV

    216        21,723  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    386,989        16,461,396  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A

    273,264        9,500,134  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A

    801        27,792  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A, ADR

    111,296        7,705,022  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B

    1,942        69,546  
    

 

 

 
       45,499,088  
    

 

 

 
Norway - 0.0% (A)  

DNB ASA

    658        12,870  
    

 

 

 
Poland - 0.0% (A)  

LPP SA

    2        4,531  

PGE Polska Grupa Energetyczna SA (B)

    9,945        24,798  

Polski Koncern Naftowy Orlen SA

    683        15,328  
    

 

 

 
       44,657  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Portugal - 0.1%  

Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA

    18,553        $   268,011  

NOS SGPS SA

    251,157        1,376,755  
    

 

 

 
       1,644,766  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.8%  

Coway Co., Ltd.

    7,467        580,208  

Doosan Bobcat, Inc. (B)

    94,083        2,701,351  

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

    506        19,455  

Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.

    13        2,473  

Industrial Bank of Korea

    1,409        19,469  

KT&G Corp.

    41,783        4,011,468  

LG Chem, Ltd.

    2,760        825,895  

LG Display Co., Ltd.

    116        1,905  

Lotte Chemical Corp.

    24        7,494  

POSCO

    2,998        885,009  

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

    103,911        4,349,438  

Shinhan Financial Group Co., Ltd.

    51        1,981  

SK Hynix, Inc.

    342        26,298  

SK Innovation Co., Ltd.

    70        12,687  

SK Telecom Co., Ltd.

    3,003        627,814  

Woori Bank

    724        10,589  
    

 

 

 
       14,083,534  
    

 

 

 
Republic of South Africa - 0.0% (A)  

Kumba Iron Ore, Ltd.

    90        1,934  

MTN Group, Ltd.

    758        5,962  

Tiger Brands, Ltd. (C)

    1,219        29,450  
    

 

 

 
       37,346  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 0.2%  

CapitaLand, Ltd.

    1,376,200        3,191,774  

ComfortDelGro Corp., Ltd.

    310,200        535,024  

Genting Singapore, Ltd.

    53,200        47,636  

Singapore Telecommunications, Ltd.

    309,000        698,510  
    

 

 

 
       4,472,944  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 0.3%  

Aena SME SA (D)

    318        57,746  

Amadeus IT Group SA

    77        6,079  

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA

    2,542        18,031  

CaixaBank SA

    6,976        30,191  

Cellnex Telecom SA (D)

    234,636        5,918,571  

Repsol SA

    1,029        20,146  
    

 

 

 
       6,050,764  
    

 

 

 
Supranational - 0.3%  

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield

    28,103        6,187,963  
    

 

 

 
Sweden - 0.0% (A)  

Essity AB, Class B

    1,213        29,957  

Sandvik AB

    1,384        24,568  

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB, Class A

    3,178        30,216  

Volvo AB, Class B

    3,420        54,679  
    

 

 

 
       139,420  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 1.3%  

Chubb, Ltd.

    29,710        3,773,764  

Cie Financiere Richemont SA

    84        7,135  

Glencore PLC (B)

    1,486        7,100  

Nestle SA

    145,395        11,290,392  

Novartis AG

    347        26,378  

Roche Holding AG

    386        85,966  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Switzerland (continued)  

SGS SA

    5        $   13,340  

Swatch Group AG

    415        37,144  

UBS Group AG (B)

    643,327        9,955,555  
    

 

 

 
       25,196,774  
    

 

 

 
Taiwan - 0.8%  

Cathay Financial Holding Co., Ltd.

    428,000        755,249  

Cheng Shin Rubber Industry Co., Ltd.

    242,000        363,931  

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd.

    1,035,000        3,734,195  

CTBC Financial Holding Co., Ltd.

    5,000        3,600  

Far EasTone Telecommunications Co., Ltd.

    629,000        1,625,701  

Formosa Chemicals & Fibre Corp.

    174,000        693,409  

Formosa Petrochemical Corp.

    124,000        498,220  

Formosa Plastics Corp.

    181,000        667,875  

Fubon Financial Holding Co., Ltd.

    477,000        799,472  

Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.

    282,400        770,641  

Nan Ya Plastics Corp.

    227,000        649,241  

Nanya Technology Corp.

    5,000        13,644  

Taiwan Cooperative Financial Holding Co., Ltd.

    8,000        4,684  

Taiwan Mobile Co., Ltd.

    532,000        1,928,137  

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    115,000        816,619  

Uni-President Enterprises Corp.

    424,000        1,076,393  
    

 

 

 
       14,401,011  
    

 

 

 
Thailand - 0.2%  

Advanced Info Service PCL

    166,700        930,863  

Intouch Holdings PCL, F Shares

    418,400        672,496  

PTT Global Chemical PCL

    350,800        762,379  

Siam Cement PCL

    51,700        642,934  

Thai Oil PCL

    188,100        441,436  
    

 

 

 
       3,450,108  
    

 

 

 
Turkey - 0.0% (A)  

BIM Birlesik Magazalar AS

    596        8,712  

Eregli Demir VE Celik Fabrikalari TAS

    1,504        3,339  

Turk Hava Yollari AO (B)

    4,814        14,189  
    

 

 

 
       26,240  
    

 

 

 
United Arab Emirates - 0.5%  

NMC Health PLC

    193,456        9,145,335  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 1.5%  

Anglo American PLC (C)

    625        13,979  

Aon PLC

    115        15,774  

Aviva PLC

    1,261        8,388  

Barclays PLC

    2,310        5,762  

Berkeley Group Holdings PLC

    6,521        325,741  

BP PLC

    5,207        39,740  

Diageo PLC

    279        10,023  

Experian PLC

    130        3,216  

GlaxoSmithKline PLC

    2,495        50,373  

GW Pharmaceuticals PLC, ADR (B)

    8,664        1,208,975  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    890,081        8,348,485  

Imperial Brands PLC

    574        21,378  

Legal & General Group PLC

    7,819        27,449  

Liberty Global PLC, Class A (B)

    115,567        3,182,715  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    66,566        55,390  

Prudential PLC

    239        5,471  

RELX PLC

    112        2,398  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United Kingdom (continued)  

Rio Tinto PLC

    682        $   37,812  

Rio Tinto, Ltd.

    358        22,106  

SSE PLC

    214        3,827  

Unilever NV, CVA

    511        28,515  

Unilever PLC

    350        19,363  

Vodafone Group PLC, ADR

    91,602        2,226,845  

Vodafone Group PLC

    5,116,505        12,412,464  
    

 

 

 
       28,076,189  
    

 

 

 
United States - 30.4%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    3,917        362,910  

Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc. (B)

    82,570        3,377,939  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    101        7,708  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (B)

    2,166        528,092  

Aetna, Inc.

    2,185        400,947  

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

    293        18,119  

Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.

    78,389        12,207,519  

Allergan PLC

    222        37,012  

Alliance Data Systems Corp.

    423        98,644  

Allstate Corp.

    302        27,564  

Ally Financial, Inc.

    5,038        132,348  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (B)

    95        107,273  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (B)

    18,349        20,471,062  

Altria Group, Inc.

    136,413        7,746,894  

Amazon.com, Inc. (B)

    12,506        21,257,699  

Amdocs, Ltd.

    5,049        334,193  

American Express Co.

    17        1,666  

American International Group, Inc.

    28        1,485  

American Tower Corp., REIT

    2,932        422,706  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    1,509        211,079  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    38        3,240  

Amgen, Inc.

    2,280        420,865  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    230,977        16,919,065  

Anthem, Inc.

    59,116        14,071,381  

Apple, Inc.

    214,113        39,634,457  

Applied Materials, Inc.

    637        29,423  

AT&T, Inc.

    1,041        33,427  

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.

    228        30,584  

AutoZone, Inc. (B)

    25        16,773  

Bank of America Corp.

    572,034        16,125,638  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    2,979        160,657  

Baxter International, Inc.

    11,028        814,308  

BB&T Corp.

    36        1,816  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (B)

    4,580        854,857  

Biogen, Inc. (B)

    8,948        2,597,068  

Boeing Co.

    1,528        512,659  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (B)

    13        26,352  

Boston Scientific Corp. (B)

    498        16,285  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    924        51,134  

Broadcom, Inc.

    27        6,551  

CA, Inc.

    746        26,595  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    2,650        243,535  

Cardinal Health, Inc.

    151        7,373  

Carnival Corp.

    661        37,882  

Caterpillar, Inc.

    974        132,143  

Celgene Corp. (B)

    331        26,288  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    219,503        11,216,603  

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A (B)

    46,963        13,770,021  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Chevron Corp.

    1,688        $   213,414  

Cigna Corp.

    301        51,155  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    1,917        82,489  

Citigroup, Inc.

    145,663        9,747,768  

Cloudera, Inc. (B) (C)

    296,971        4,050,684  

CME Group, Inc.

    111        18,195  

Coca-Cola Co.

    659        28,904  

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A

    516        40,759  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    7,291        472,530  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    633,193        20,775,062  

Conagra Brands, Inc.

    1,507        53,845  

ConocoPhillips

    1,061        73,867  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    1,661        363,543  

Corning, Inc.

    1,112        30,591  

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    746        155,899  

Crown Holdings, Inc. (B)

    3,662        163,911  

CSX Corp.

    1,360        86,741  

Cummins, Inc.

    153        20,349  

CVS Health Corp.

    195,622        12,588,276  

Danaher Corp.

    173        17,072  

Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc. (B)

    37,720        1,795,472  

Dell Technologies, Inc., Class V (B)

    386        32,648  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    3,113        154,218  

Discover Financial Services

    4,026        283,471  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (B)

    16,496        554,431  

Dollar General Corp.

    9,753        961,646  

Domo, Inc., Class B (B)

    13,242        361,507  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    265,390        17,494,509  

DXC Technology Co.

    192        15,477  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    71        5,307  

eBay, Inc. (B)

    2,375        86,117  

Edgewell Personal Care Co. (B)

    88,318        4,456,526  

Edwards Lifesciences Corp. (B)

    627        91,272  

Electronic Arts, Inc. (B)

    2,558        360,729  

Emerson Electric Co.

    82        5,669  

Entergy Corp.

    153        12,361  

Equity Residential, REIT

    355        22,610  

Expedia Group, Inc.

    567        68,148  

Express Scripts Holding Co. (B)

    647        49,955  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    49,429        4,089,261  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (B)

    165,334        32,127,703  

Fieldwood Energy LLC (B) (E) (F) (G)

    7,771        181,297  

Fifth Third Bancorp

    100,445        2,882,771  

FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (B)

    43,141        9,087,652  

Ford Motor Co.

    785        8,690  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

    7,414        398,058  

Franklin Resources, Inc.

    175        5,609  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    727        12,548  

General Dynamics Corp.

    797        148,569  

General Electric Co.

    228,318        3,107,408  

General Mills, Inc.

    555        24,564  

General Motors Co.

    687        27,068  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    147,427        10,443,729  

Global Payments, Inc.

    8,114        904,630  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    1,296        285,859  

Halliburton Co.

    481        21,674  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    10,719        548,062  

HCA Healthcare, Inc.

    85,320        8,753,832  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

    2,806        $   178,911  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

    1,850        27,028  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    102        8,074  

Home Depot, Inc.

    2,759        538,281  

HP, Inc.

    2,469        56,022  

Humana, Inc.

    69        20,536  

Huntsman Corp.

    4,215        123,078  

Hyatt Hotels Corp., Class A

    707        54,545  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    731        101,273  

Ingersoll-Rand PLC

    337        30,239  

Intel Corp.

    7,765        385,998  

International Business Machines Corp.

    44,744        6,250,737  

International Paper Co.

    3,633        189,207  

Intuit, Inc.

    2,189        447,224  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (B)

    63        30,144  

Johnson & Johnson

    68,512        8,313,246  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    45,280        4,718,176  

Kimberly-Clark Corp.

    218        22,964  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.

    1,408        24,879  

KLA-Tencor Corp.

    2,614        268,013  

Kohl’s Corp.

    2,509        182,906  

Lam Research Corp.

    190        32,841  

Las Vegas Sands Corp.

    850        64,906  

Lear Corp.

    1,489        276,671  

Liberty Broadband Corp., Class A (B)

    12,202        922,959  

Liberty Broadband Corp., Class C (B)

    51,320        3,885,950  

Liberty Media Corp. - Liberty SiriusXM, Class A (B)

    43,690        1,968,234  

Liberty Media Corp. - Liberty SiriusXM, Class C (B)

    71,738        3,254,036  

Lockheed Martin Corp.

    58        17,135  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    10,073        962,677  

M&T Bank Corp.

    65        11,060  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.

    6,581        461,723  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    60,709        4,976,317  

Masco Corp.

    8,987        336,294  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    5,396        1,060,422  

McDonald’s Corp.

    1,394        218,426  

McKesson Corp.

    1,080        144,072  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    9,948        603,844  

MetLife, Inc.

    18,985        827,746  

MGM Resorts International

    214,716        6,233,205  

Micron Technology, Inc. (B)

    3,882        203,572  

Microsoft Corp.

    348,976        34,412,523  

Mohawk Industries, Inc. (B)

    43,132        9,241,894  

Mondelez International, Inc., Class A

    13,335        546,735  

Morgan Stanley

    246,807        11,698,652  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    60,305        10,072,744  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    101        8,048  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    75        11,315  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    2,109        648,939  

NVIDIA Corp.

    112        26,533  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (B)

    17,692        4,840,000  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    235        19,665  

Oracle Corp.

    14,507        639,178  

PACCAR, Inc.

    114        7,063  

Packaging Corp. of America

    2,347        262,371  

Paychex, Inc.

    84        5,741  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    6,906        $   751,856  

Perspecta, Inc.

    90        1,850  

Pfizer, Inc.

    377,155        13,683,183  

PG&E Corp.

    350        14,896  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    541        43,680  

Phillips 66

    2,770        311,099  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    13,023        2,464,473  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    140,139        10,939,250  

Progressive Corp.

    33        1,952  

Prologis, Inc., REIT

    494        32,451  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    2,184        204,226  

Pure Storage, Inc., Class A (B)

    212,663        5,078,392  

PVH Corp.

    1,129        169,034  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

    218,773        12,277,541  

Raytheon Co.

    3,188        615,858  

Red Hat, Inc. (B)

    30        4,031  

Reinsurance Group of America, Inc.

    1,707        227,850  

Republic Services, Inc.

    46        3,145  

Rockwell Automation, Inc.

    697        115,862  

Ross Stores, Inc.

    2,221        188,230  

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.

    1,495        154,882  

Schlumberger, Ltd.

    41,060        2,752,252  

Sempra Energy

    34,403        3,994,532  

Snap, Inc., Class A (B) (C)

    255,542        3,345,045  

St. Joe Co. (B)

    125,919        2,260,246  

State Street Corp.

    1,602        149,130  

Stryker Corp.

    4,157        701,951  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    103,550        6,836,371  

Symantec Corp.

    370        7,641  

Sysco Corp.

    1,120        76,485  

Target Corp.

    757        57,623  

Tenet Healthcare Corp. (B)

    142,493        4,783,490  

TESARO, Inc. (B) (C)

    27,402        1,218,567  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    397        43,769  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    2,294        475,179  

Travelers Cos., Inc.

    5,842        714,710  

Union Pacific Corp.

    150        21,252  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (B)

    118,053        8,231,836  

United Rentals, Inc. (B)

    2,043        301,588  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    4,562        1,119,241  

Valero Energy Corp.

    5,142        569,888  

VeriSign, Inc. (B)

    3,100        426,002  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    11,236        565,283  

VF Corp.

    631        51,439  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    7,603        1,007,017  

Vistra Energy Corp. (B)

    38,880        919,901  

VMware, Inc., Class A (B)

    342        50,264  

Vornado Realty Trust, REIT

    316        23,359  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    517        31,028  

Walmart, Inc.

    13,164        1,127,497  

Walt Disney Co.

    1,456        152,603  

Waste Management, Inc.

    546        44,412  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    88,016        4,879,607  

Western Digital Corp.

    26,928        2,084,496  

Weyerhaeuser Co., REIT

    949        34,601  

Williams Cos., Inc.

    603,306        16,355,626  

Wyndham Destinations, Inc.

    3,123        138,255  

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

    2,198        129,308  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Yum! Brands, Inc.

    735        $   57,492  

Zynga, Inc., Class A (B)

    710,256        2,890,742  
    

 

 

 
       571,234,391  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $932,463,968)

 

     1,048,268,235  
    

 

 

 
CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.6%  
United States - 0.6%  

Dropbox, Inc.,
0.00% (B) (H)

    114,660        3,717,277  

Mandatory Exchangeable Trust,
5.75% (D)

    27,232        5,678,825  

Wells Fargo & Co.,
Series L, Class A, 7.50%

    552        695,222  

Welltower, Inc.,
Series I, 6.50%

    25,115        1,493,087  
    

 

 

 

Total Convertible Preferred Stocks
(Cost $8,120,287)

 

     11,584,411  
    

 

 

 
PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.5%  
Brazil - 0.0% (A)  

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA,
0.00% (B)

    715        2,500  

Petroleo Brasileiro SA,
0.28% (B)

    4,957        21,986  
    

 

 

 
       24,486  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.0% (A)  

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.,
2.53%

    650        21,958  
    

 

 

 
United States - 0.5%  

Citigroup Capital XIII,
3-Month LIBOR + 6.37%,
8.73% (I)

    62,890        1,704,319  

GMAC Capital Trust I,
Series 2, 3-Month LIBOR + 5.79%, 8.13% (I)

    69,084        1,816,909  

Palantir Technologies, Inc.,
0.00% (B) (E) (F) (G) (J)

    212,750        1,229,695  

Uber Technologies, Inc.,
0.00% (B) (E) (F) (G) (J)

    129,064        5,162,560  
    

 

 

 
       9,913,483  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stocks
(Cost $6,921,592)

 

     9,959,927  
    

 

 

 
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 2.6%  
United States - 2.6%  

iShares Gold Trust (B)

    1,039,985        12,500,620  

SPDR Gold Shares (B)

    309,327        36,701,648  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $50,361,296)

 

     49,202,268  
    

 

 

 
MASTER LIMITED PARTNERSHIP - 0.2%  
United States - 0.2%  

NextEra Energy Partners, LP

    64,017        2,987,674  
    

 

 

 

Total Master Limited Partnership
(Cost $1,708,051)

 

     2,987,674  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
RIGHTS - 0.0% (A)  
Italy - 0.0%  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA, (B) (K)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 07/17/2018

    2,870        $   0  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 0.0% (A)  

Repsol SA, (B) (C)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 07/06/2018

    1,029        584  
    

 

 

 

Total Rights
(Cost $580)

 

     584  
    

 

 

 
WARRANTS - 0.0% (A)  
Australia - 0.0% (A)  

Quintis, Ltd., (B) (E) (J)
Exercise Price AUD 1.28,
Expiration Date 07/15/2018

    59,458        0  

Quintis, Ltd., Class A, (B) (E)
Exercise Price AUD 1.28,
Expiration Date 07/15/2018

    368,642        1  
    

 

 

 

Total Warrants
(Cost $391,617)

 

     1  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CONVERTIBLE BONDS - 0.4%  
India - 0.0% (A)  

REI Agro, Ltd.

    

5.50%, 11/13/2014 (F) (L) (M)

    $  259,000        3,686  

5.50%, 11/13/2014 (D) (F) (M)

    697,000        9,918  
    

 

 

 
       13,604  
    

 

 

 
Jersey, Channel Islands - 0.1%  

Dana Gas Sukuk, Ltd.
7.00%, 10/31/2017 (D) (F) (N)

    2,109,340        1,908,953  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 0.2%  

Bayer Capital Corp. BV
5.63%, 11/22/2019 (D)

    EUR  2,700,000        3,373,774  

Bio City Development Co. BV
8.00%, 07/06/2018 (D) (E) (F) (J) (M)

    $  2,400,000        546,000  
    

 

 

 
       3,919,774  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 0.1%  

CapitaLand, Ltd.
1.95%, 10/17/2023 (D)

    SGD  1,250,000        909,404  
    

 

 

 

Total Convertible Bonds
(Cost $8,337,515)

 

     6,751,735  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 2.8%  
Australia - 0.2%  

Quintis, Ltd.
8.75%, 08/01/2023 (C) (D) (F)

    $  4,546,000        3,060,026  
    

 

 

 
Cayman Islands - 0.0% (A)  

Odebrecht Finance, Ltd.
4.38%, 04/25/2025 (D)

    929,000        320,505  
    

 

 

 
Chile - 0.0% (A)  

Inversiones Alsacia SA
8.00%, 12/31/2018 (D) (N)

    949,933        23,748  
    

 

 

 
France - 0.1%  

Danone SA
2.59%, 11/02/2023 (D)

    1,507,000        1,419,287  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Italy - 0.0% (A)  

Telecom Italia SpA
5.30%, 05/30/2024 (D)

    $   825,000        $  813,656  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 0.1%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.45%, 03/15/2022

    1,282,000        1,261,472  

Intelsat Jackson Holdings SA

    

7.50%, 04/01/2021 (C)

    1,193,000        1,184,053  

8.00%, 02/15/2024 (D)

    390,000        409,500  
    

 

 

 
       2,855,025  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.0% (A)  

Petroleos Mexicanos
3-Month LIBOR + 3.65%, 5.98% (I), 03/11/2022

    784,000        836,920  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 0.1%  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
3.95%, 11/09/2022

    353,000        349,586  

ING Groep NV
Fixed until 04/16/2020, 6.00% (I), 04/16/2020 (C) (O)

    795,000        791,184  
    

 

 

 
       1,140,770  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 0.1%  

UBS Group Funding Switzerland AG
4.13%, 09/24/2025 (D)

    965,000        958,257  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 0.3%  

HSBC Holdings PLC
Fixed until 09/17/2024, 6.38% (I), 09/17/2024 (O)

    2,707,000        2,677,738  

Lloyds Bank PLC
Fixed until 01/22/2029, 13.00% (I), 01/21/2029, MTN (O)

    GBP  1,289,000        3,001,510  
    

 

 

 
       5,679,248  
    

 

 

 
United States - 1.9%  

AbbVie, Inc.
2.90%, 11/06/2022

    $  1,284,000        1,245,955  

Allergan Sales LLC
5.00%, 12/15/2021 (D)

    666,000        689,075  

Ally Financial, Inc.
3.50%, 01/27/2019

    891,000        889,886  

American Express Co.
Fixed until 03/15/2020, 4.90% (I), 03/15/2020 (O)

    913,000        915,739  

Amgen, Inc.
1.85%, 08/19/2021

    256,000        245,197  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.

    

3.50%, 01/12/2024

    815,000        809,967  

4.00%, 04/13/2028

    1,345,000        1,341,876  

Apple, Inc.

    

3.20%, 05/11/2027

    2,266,000        2,185,496  

3.35%, 02/09/2027

    2,358,000        2,302,580  

Bank of America Corp.

    

Fixed until 07/21/2020, 2.37% (I), 07/21/2021, MTN

    591,000        579,354  

4.00%, 01/22/2025, MTN

    743,000        733,454  

Becton Dickinson and Co.

    

2.89%, 06/06/2022

    1,079,000        1,043,645  

3.13%, 11/08/2021

    1,309,000        1,290,011  

3.36%, 06/06/2024

    619,000        594,602  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

2.45%, 01/10/2020

    $   1,307,000        $   1,292,321  

Fixed until 03/27/2020, 5.88% (I), 03/27/2020 (O)

    3,070,000        3,144,754  

Fixed until 08/15/2020, 5.95% (I), 08/15/2020 (O)

    1,233,000        1,269,990  

CVS Health Corp.
3.70%, 03/09/2023

    5,330,000        5,302,971  

eBay, Inc.
2.75%, 01/30/2023

    742,000        714,844  

Edgewell Personal Care Co.

    

4.70%, 05/19/2021 (C)

    654,000        652,365  

4.70%, 05/24/2022

    664,000        649,060  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.
3.45%, 04/10/2022

    577,000        566,973  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
Fixed until 05/10/2020, 5.38% (I), 05/10/2020 (O)

    1,434,000        1,459,095  

Hughes Satellite Systems Corp.
7.63%, 06/15/2021

    233,000        247,854  

Morgan Stanley
Fixed until 07/15/2019, 5.45% (I), 07/15/2019 (O)

    1,037,000        1,050,616  

NBCUniversal Enterprise, Inc.
5.25%, 03/19/2021 (D) (O)

    1,086,000        1,096,860  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    

Fixed until 06/15/2023, 5.63% (I), 06/15/2043

    531,000        547,594  

Fixed until 09/15/2022, 5.88% (I), 09/15/2042 (C)

    802,000        847,112  

Santander Holdings USA, Inc.
3.70%, 03/28/2022

    390,000        384,261  

Sherwin-Williams Co.
2.25%, 05/15/2020

    257,000        252,731  

Synchrony Financial
3.75%, 08/15/2021

    379,000        378,607  

USB Capital IX
3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.50% (I), 07/30/2018 (O)

    372,000        337,125  
    

 

 

 
       35,061,970  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $55,795,855)

 

     52,169,412  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 5.8%  
Argentina - 0.8%  

Argentina Republic Government International Bond

    

3.38%, 01/15/2023

    EUR  1,657,000        1,751,215  

5.25%, 01/15/2028

    250,000        249,617  

5.88%, 01/11/2028

    $  4,282,000        3,479,125  

6.88%, 01/26/2027

    2,371,000        2,086,480  

7.50%, 04/22/2026

    3,336,000        3,077,460  

7.82%, 12/31/2033

    EUR  3,274,082        3,805,580  
    

 

 

 
       14,449,477  
    

 

 

 
Australia - 0.2%  

Australia Government Bond
3.00%, 03/21/2047 (L)

    AUD  5,774,000        4,187,131  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
Brazil - 0.2%  

Brazil Notas do Tesouro Nacional
Series F,
10.00%, 01/01/2023

    BRL  11,376,000        $   2,725,850  
    

 

 

 
Canada - 0.9%  

Canada Government Bond

    

0.50%, 08/01/2018

    CAD  18,463,000        14,035,756  

0.75%, 03/01/2021

    4,535,000        3,339,925  
    

 

 

 
       17,375,681  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 2.2%  

Bundesrepublik Deutschland Bundesanleihe

    

Zero Coupon, 08/15/2026 (L)

    EUR  7,999,094        9,244,416  

0.50%, 02/15/2028 (L)

    26,255,000        31,215,792  
    

 

 

 
       40,460,208  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 0.6%  

2-Year Japan Government Bond
0.10%, 10/15/2018

    JPY  1,318,400,000        11,915,911  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.9%  

Mexico Bonos

    

Series M,

    

6.50%, 06/10/2021 - 06/09/2022

    MXN  220,155,600        10,674,139  

8.50%, 12/13/2018

    130,058,900        6,561,146  
    

 

 

 
       17,235,285  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 0.0% (A)  

U.K. Gilt
2.00%, 09/07/2025 (L)

    GBP  291,616        407,829  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $112,870,249)

 

     108,757,372  
    

 

 

 
LOAN ASSIGNMENTS - 0.1%  
United States - 0.1%  

Fieldwood Energy LLC

    

1st Lien Term Loan,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 5.25%, 7.34% (I), 04/11/2022

    $  249,657        249,865  

2nd Lien Term Loan,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 7.25%, 9.34% (I), 04/11/2023

    337,037        328,330  

Hilton Worldwide Finance LLC
Term Loan B2,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.75%, 3.84% (I), 10/25/2023

    1,591,714        1,589,791  
    

 

 

 

Total Loan Assignments
(Cost $2,185,414)

 

     2,167,986  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 18.2%  
U.S. Treasury - 18.2%  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.13%, 07/31/2021

    3,886,500        3,713,733  

1.25%, 12/15/2018

    4,500,000        4,482,422  

2.63%, 02/28/2023

    45,786,500        45,602,281  

2.75%, 04/30/2023 - 02/15/2028

    177,620,000        177,107,020  

2.88%, 05/31/2025 - 05/15/2028

    111,885,600        112,285,128  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $342,013,315)

 

     343,190,584  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
SHORT-TERM FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 1.0%  
Japan - 1.0%  

Japan Treasury Discount Bill

    

0.00% (P) (Q), 09/10/2018

    JPY  1,272,500,000        $   11,496,279  

0.01% (P), 10/01/2018

    794,450,000        7,178,142  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $18,746,899)

 

     18,674,421  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 14.0%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.71% (P), 07/19/2018

    $  28,000,000        27,975,099  

1.76% (P), 07/26/2018

    10,000,000        9,987,484  

1.77% (P), 07/12/2018

    10,000,000        9,994,198  

1.78% (P), 07/05/2018

    18,000,000        17,995,625  

1.79% (P), 07/12/2018 - 07/19/2018

    14,000,000        13,988,016  

1.80% (P), 07/05/2018 - 07/12/2018

    115,000,000        114,933,870  

1.82% (P), 07/05/2018 - 07/26/2018

    29,000,000        28,975,002  

1.84% (P), 07/19/2018

    39,000,000        38,962,734  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $262,812,028)

 

     262,812,028  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.7%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (P)

    12,953,993        12,953,993  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $12,953,993)

 

     12,953,993  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 0.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (P), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $4,619,129 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $4,715,855.

    $  4,618,782        4,618,782  
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

State Street Bank & Trust Co., 0.05% (P), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $147,564 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Agency Obligation, 4.5%, due 09/01/2044, and with a value of $150,595.

    $  147,563        $  147,563  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $4,766,345)

 

     4,766,345  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options/Swaptions (Cost $1,820,449,004)

 

     1,934,246,976  

Total Purchased Options/Swaptions - 0.2%
(Cost $6,574,388)

 

     4,337,021  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,827,023,392)

 

     1,938,583,997  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES SOLD SHORT - (0.4)%  
COMMON STOCKS - (0.4)%  
Beverages - (0.0)% (A)  

Pernod Ricard SA

    (5,660      (924,704
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - (0.2)%  

LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A

    (29,962      (3,291,326
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - (0.1)%  

Yaskawa Electric Corp.

    (26,500      (937,068
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - (0.1)%  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    (9,569      (1,365,400
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Proceeds $6,589,532)

 

     (6,518,498
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Sold Short
(Proceeds $6,589,532)

 

     (6,518,498
    

 

 

 

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (2.8)%

 

     (52,383,711
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,879,681,788  
    

 

 

 
 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Call - SPDR Gold Shares

    USD       128.00        07/20/2018       USD       4,556,160        384      $   108,763      $   768  

OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS PURCHASED: (R)

 

Description   Counterparty   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - BP PLC

  UBS     USD       52.00       06/21/2019       USD       7,472,350       163,652     $   239,926     $   190,223  

Call - Chevron Corp.

  UBS     USD       125.00       01/18/2019       USD       6,261,699       49,527       147,590       406,121  

Call - ConocoPhillips

  UBS     USD       75.00       06/21/2019       USD       6,000,826       86,194       372,229       429,345  

Call - EURO STOXX 50® Index

  DUB     EUR         3,426.55       09/21/2018       EUR         1,385,641       375       136,733       32,223  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS PURCHASED (continued): (R)

 

Description   Counterparty     Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    SG       EUR       117.57       03/20/2020       EUR       3,054,197       23,681     $ 210,919     $ 167,696  

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    CITI       EUR       131.88       06/19/2020       EUR       4,989,300       38,685       322,201       116,026  

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    UBS       EUR       134.92       06/18/2021       EUR       3,972,352       30,800       330,385       113,757  

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    DUB       EUR       136.56       04/16/2021       EUR       3,668,364       28,443       311,032       107,627  

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    BCLY       EUR       136.97       03/19/2021       EUR       3,855,503       29,894       301,026       108,337  

Call - Exxon Mobil Corp.

    UBS       USD       95.00       01/18/2019       USD       2,785,767       33,673       60,611       26,770  

Call - Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    UBS       USD       75.00       01/18/2019       USD       2,640,606       31,556       73,525       347,905  

Call - Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    UBS       USD       92.50       06/21/2019       USD       3,586,441       42,859       174,090       153,856  

Call - Royal Dutch Shell PLC

    UBS       USD       77.00       06/21/2019       USD       6,467,051       93,414       163,089       146,451  

Call - Russell 2000® Index

    BOA       USD       1,700.00       12/21/2018       USD       6,332,388       3,854       230,212       198,575  

Call - Russell 2000® Index

    BOA       USD       1,700.00       03/15/2019       USD       8,424,015       5,127       391,908       363,734  

Call - Schlumberger, Ltd.

    UBS       USD       90.00       01/18/2019       USD       3,267,109       48,741       196,426       11,698  

Call - SPDR Gold Shares (K)

    JPM       USD       127.00       06/29/2018       USD       4,550,583       38,353       77,722       0  

Call - SPDR Gold Shares

    JPM       USD       129.00       07/20/2018       USD       2,730,255       23,011       65,581       333  

Call - SPDR Gold Shares

    SG       USD       129.00       08/17/2018       USD       9,146,373       77,087       227,461       6,265  

Call - SPDR Gold Shares

    JPM       USD       130.00       07/20/2018       USD       2,729,306       23,003       72,423       239  

Call - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       4,756.33       03/13/2020       JPY       286,659,032       66,572       208,350       111,928  

Call - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       4,816.24       09/11/2020       JPY       231,761,838       53,823       152,062       99,341  

Call - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       4,894.87       12/11/2020       JPY       231,533,620       53,770       185,794       93,808  

Call - Suncor Energy, Inc.

    UBS       USD       45.00       06/21/2019       USD       5,900,194       110,284       213,389       244,576  

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    BOA       JPY       191.28       12/13/2019       JPY       1,983,666       1,275,169       161,110       82,769  

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    MSCS       JPY       191.28       12/13/2019       JPY       3,749,765       2,410,479       351,749       156,456  

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    MSCS       JPY       192.04       04/10/2020       JPY       2,386,004       1,533,806       233,427       112,752  

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    BNP       JPY       194.04       03/13/2020       JPY       2,677,916       1,721,457       261,262       115,443  

Call - Total SA

    UBS       USD       60.00       01/18/2019       USD       6,503,962       107,397       161,096       391,999  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

            $   6,033,328     $   4,336,253  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS PURCHASED: (R)

 

Description   Counterparty   Floating Rate
Index
  Pay/Receive
Floating
Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (K)

  GSC   3-Month USD-LIBOR     Receive       2.42     07/09/2018       USD       50,858,489     $   432,297     $   0  

OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS WRITTEN: (R)

 

Description   Counterparty   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - Apple, Inc.

  BCLY     USD       160.00       01/18/2019       USD       2,356,635       12,731     $   (182,053   $   (373,820

Call - BP PLC

  UBS     USD       59.00       06/21/2019       USD       7,472,350       163,652       (51,604     (55,239

Call - Charter Communications, Inc.

  CITI     USD       305.00       12/21/2018       USD       1,497,717       5,108       (67,936     (121,509

Call - Charter Communications, Inc.

  CITI     USD       315.00       12/21/2018       USD       2,943,242       10,038       (133,505     (199,476

Call - Comcast Corp.

  CITI     USD       36.25       01/18/2019       USD       1,788,768       54,519       (121,577     (76,514

Call - ConocoPhillips

  UBS     USD       85.00       06/21/2019       USD       6,000,826       86,194       (112,518     (193,268

Call - DowDuPont, Inc.

  BCLY     USD       70.00       01/18/2019       USD       1,858,680       28,196       (162,832     (84,158

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

  SG     EUR       159.00       03/20/2020       EUR       3,054,197       23,681       (19,398     (16,161

Call - EURO STOXX Banks Index

  CITI     EUR       161.62       06/19/2020       EUR       4,989,300       38,685       (66,727     (24,267

Call - Fifth Third Bancorp

  CITI     USD       34.00       11/16/2018       USD       2,681,872       93,445       (89,707     (26,958

Call - FleetCor Technologies, Inc.

  BCLY     USD       180.00       01/18/2019       USD       1,294,023       6,143       (95,831     (230,167

Call - Microsoft Corp.

  BCLY     USD       90.00       01/18/2019       USD       2,224,937       22,563       (178,248     (282,285

Call - Occidental Petroleum Corp.

  UBS     USD       105.00       06/21/2019       USD       3,586,441       42,859       (47,839     (52,832

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS WRITTEN (continued): (R)

 

Description   Counterparty     Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    UBS       USD       165.00       01/18/2019       USD       2,464,473       13,023     $ (210,061   $ (435,807

Call - Royal Dutch Shell PLC

    UBS       USD       87.50       06/21/2019       USD       6,467,051       93,414       (26,958     (36,218

Call - Russell 2000® Index

    BOA       USD       1,875.00       12/21/2018       USD       6,332,388       3,854       (23,124     (20,217

Call - Russell 2000® Index

    BOA       USD       1,900.00       03/15/2019       USD       8,424,015       5,127       (51,270     (52,912

Call - SPDR Gold Shares

    SG       USD       142.00       08/17/2018       USD       9,146,373       77,087       (47,023     (101

Call - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       5,679.90       03/13/2020       JPY       286,659,032       66,572       (81,651     (35,446

Call - Suncor Energy, Inc.

    UBS       USD       50.00       06/21/2019       USD       5,900,194       110,284       (63,705     (112,692

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    MSCS       JPY       221.29       12/13/2019       JPY       3,749,765       2,410,479       (165,113     (56,957

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    BOA       JPY       221.29       12/13/2019       JPY       1,983,666       1,275,169       (63,754     (30,126

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    MSCS       JPY       233.87       04/10/2020       JPY       2,386,004       1,533,806       (84,330     (33,997

Call - TOPIX Banks Index

    BNP       JPY       237.47       03/13/2020       JPY       2,677,916       1,721,457       (83,223     (32,057

Call - United Continental Holdings, Inc.

    DUB       USD       75.00       01/18/2019       USD       1,142,177       16,380       (78,067     (74,196

Put - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    DUB       EUR       99.04       04/16/2021       EUR       1,222,788       9,481       (103,677     (160,579

Put - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    BCLY       EUR       110.23       03/19/2021       EUR       2,570,421       19,930       (315,966     (477,797

Put - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    DUB       EUR       118.81       04/16/2021       EUR       1,222,788       9,481       (207,354     (295,997

Put - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    SG       EUR       100.77       03/20/2020       EUR       2,036,217       15,788       (191,528     (190,959

Put - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    CITI       EUR       106.02       06/19/2020       EUR       3,326,200       25,790       (276,253     (461,636

Put - EURO STOXX Banks Index

    UBS       EUR       106.38       06/18/2021       EUR       2,613,240       20,262       (326,711     (484,732

Put - Exxon Mobil Corp.

    UBS       USD       60.00       01/18/2019       USD       2,785,767       33,673       (53,877     (12,291

Put - Russell 2000® Index

    BOA       USD       1,600.00       12/21/2018       USD       5,277,538       3,212       (131,597     (183,254

Put - S&P 500®

    BOA       USD       2,600.00       03/15/2019       USD       8,013,755       2,948       (229,974     (279,135

Put - Schlumberger, Ltd.

    UBS       USD       60.00       01/18/2019       USD       3,267,109       48,741       (158,408     (97,969

Put - SPDR Gold Shares

    SG       USD       119.00       08/17/2018       USD       9,146,373       77,087       (37,002     (131,740

Put - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       3,786.60       12/11/2020       JPY       154,352,876       35,846       (110,368     (127,222

Put - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       3,820.96       09/11/2020       JPY       154,507,892       35,882       (92,404     (117,507

Put - Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    MSCS       JPY       3,832.77       03/13/2020       JPY       286,659,032       66,572       (148,097     (176,679

Put - TOPIX Banks Index

    BNP       JPY       155.80       03/13/2020       JPY       2,677,916       1,721,457       (151,586     (212,065

Put - TOPIX Banks Index

    MSCS       JPY       156.59       12/13/2019       JPY       3,749,765       2,410,479       (205,255     (268,300

Put - TOPIX Banks Index

    BOA       JPY       156.59       12/13/2019       JPY       1,983,666       1,275,169       (98,233     (141,945

Put - TOPIX Banks Index

    MSCS       JPY       157.82       04/10/2020       JPY       2,386,004       1,533,806       (145,396     (208,601
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

            $ (5,291,740   $ (6,685,788
               

 

 

   

 

 

 
                                                      Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS AND SWAPTIONS

 

    $   (5,291,740   $   (6,685,788

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (S)  
Reference Obligation   Fixed Rate
Receivable
  Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (T)
    Value (U)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America High Yield Index - Series 29

  5.00%     Quarterly       12/20/2022       USD       406,908       $  25,547       $  26,400       $  (853

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS (continued):

 

Interest Rate Swap Agreements  
Floating Rate Index   Pay/Receive
Fixed Rate
  Fixed
Rate
    Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

3-Month USD-LIBOR

  Receive     2.33   Quarterly/Semi-Annually     06/14/2023       USD       26,718,215     $ (703,722   $ 291     $ (704,013

3-Month USD-LIBOR

  Receive     2.40     Quarterly/Semi-Annually     03/07/2023       USD       23,062,897       (359,757     141       (359,898

3-Month USD-LIBOR

  Receive     2.73     Quarterly/Semi-Annually     07/25/2028       USD       14,529,000       (305,931     246       (306,177

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Pay     0.34     Annually/Semi-Annually     06/14/2023       EUR       21,424,984       (102,284     273       (102,557

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Pay     0.37     Annually/Semi-Annually     08/15/2026       EUR       7,999,094       170,697       220       170,477  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Receive     0.37     Semi-Annually/Annually     08/15/2026       EUR       8,060,000       20,978             20,978  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Pay     0.42     Annually/Semi-Annually     03/07/2023       EUR       20,410,664       (248,934     128       (249,062

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Pay     0.84     Annually/Semi-Annually     02/15/2028       EUR       14,440,000       324       324        

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Pay     0.84     Annually/Semi-Annually     02/15/2028       EUR       14,440,000       324       324        

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Pay     1.08     Annually/Semi-Annually     07/25/2028       EUR       10,196,000       (218,873     213       (219,086
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

 

    $   (1,747,178   $   2,160     $   (1,749,338
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS: (R)

 

Cross Currency Swap Agreements  
Fixed Rate
Receivable
  Fixed Rate
Payable
    Counterparty     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
Receivable
    Notional
Amount
Payable
    Fair
Value
    Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

2.01%

    0.10     BOA       10/15/2018       USD       12,837,552       JPY       1,318,400,000       $  1,005,911       $  74,186       $  931,725  

 

Total Return Swap Agreements (V)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty     Pay/
Receive
  Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Shares or
Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/20/2019       EUR       576,270       5,700       $  146,442       $  —       $  146,442  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/20/2019       EUR       528,840       5,200       129,953             129,953  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/27/2019       EUR       421,070       4,100       97,675             97,675  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/18/2020       EUR       288,900       3,000       100,197             100,197  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Maturity     12/18/2020       EUR       154,240       1,600       53,252             53,252  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Maturity     12/18/2020       EUR       134,680       1,400       46,922             46,922  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS (continued): (R)

 

Total Return Swap Agreements (continued) (V)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty     Pay/
Receive
  Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Shares or
Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/18/2020       EUR       115,200       1,200       $   40,499       $   —       $   40,499  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/18/2020       EUR       155,200       1,600       52,131             52,131  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/18/2020       EUR       465,600       4,800       156,392             156,392  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/18/2020       EUR       470,360       4,400       92,490             92,490  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/17/2021       EUR       234,960       2,200       38,024             38,024  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Maturity     12/17/2021       EUR       270,960       2,400       24,384             24,384  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/17/2021       EUR       227,260       2,200       47,016             47,016  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Maturity     12/17/2021       EUR       144,960       1,200       1,121             1,121  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Maturity     12/16/2022       EUR       265,920       2,400       20,740             20,740  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Annually     12/16/2022       EUR       563,990       4,900       17,739             17,739  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Maturity     12/15/2023       EUR       386,240       3,400       6,353             6,353  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Annually     12/17/2021       EUR       298,750       2,500       3,931             3,931  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Annually     12/16/2022       EUR       131,400       1,200       10,683             10,683  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Semi-Annually     12/21/2022       EUR       261,360       2,400       26,065             26,065  

EURO STOXX 50® Index Dividend Futures

    BNP     Pay   Annually     12/15/2023       EUR       403,725       3,500       (2,420           (2,420

S&P 500® Annual Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/21/2018       USD       1,098,625       23,500       169,200             169,200  

S&P 500® Annual Dividend Futures

    GSI     Receive   Annually     12/18/2020       USD       455,763       9,500       105,688             105,688  

S&P 500® Annual Dividend Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     12/17/2021       USD       582,600       12,000       152,400             152,400  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     03/31/2021       JPY       30,620,000       80,000       53,362             53,362  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS (continued): (R)

 

Total Return Swap Agreements (continued) (V)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty     Pay/
Receive
  Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Shares or
Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     03/31/2021       JPY       15,520,000       40,000     $   24,784     $   —     $   24,784  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Receive   Maturity     03/31/2021       JPY       19,275,000       50,000       32,109             32,109  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Pay   Maturity     03/31/2021       JPY       25,290,000       60,000       19,022             19,022  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     04/01/2021       JPY       65,960,000       170,000       105,334             105,334  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Pay   Annually     03/31/2022       JPY       35,775,000       90,000       52,676             52,676  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Pay   Annually     03/31/2022       JPY       31,880,000       80,000       46,100             46,100  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Pay   Maturity     03/31/2022       JPY       25,560,000       60,000       19,672             19,672  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Receive   Annually     04/01/2022       JPY       66,810,000       170,000       106,408             106,408  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    BNP     Pay   Quarterly     03/31/2023       JPY       25,380,000       60,000       22,815             22,815  

SGX Nikkei Stock Average Dividend Point Index Futures

    JPM     Pay   Annually     04/03/2023       JPY       25,680,000       60,000       18,147             18,147  
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    $   2,037,306     $   —     $   2,037,306  
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

      Value  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Assets)

   $   3,045,637  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Liabilities)

   $ (2,420

FUTURES CONTRACTS:

 

Description    Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

EURO STOXX 50® Index

     Short       (6     09/21/2018       $     (243,338     $      (237,601     $     5,737       $            —  

NASDAQ-100 E-Mini Index

     Long       30       09/21/2018       4,306,326       4,240,050               (66,276

Nikkei 225 Index

     Short       (19     09/13/2018       (1,949,975     (1,907,036       42,939        

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Short       (24     09/21/2018       (3,317,827     (3,265,920     51,907        

SGX CNX Nifty Index

     Long       1,289       07/26/2018         27,773,158         27,563,976             (209,182
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

               $  100,583       $  (275,458
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS: (R)  
Counterparty      Settlement
Date
     Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BCLY

       07/20/2018        ZAR        79,072,875        USD        5,921,243      $      $ (171,855

BCLY

       08/16/2018        GBP        3,603,000        USD        4,884,623               (119,404

BCLY

       09/10/2018        USD        11,622,131        JPY        1,272,500,000        71,336         

BCLY

       09/28/2018        SEK        40,801,546        EUR        3,950,000               (57,368

BNP

       07/19/2018        USD        8,386,635        JPY        911,166,000        146,176         

BNP

       07/19/2018        JPY        911,166,000        USD        8,553,702               (313,242

BNP

       07/27/2018        USD        10,889,971        EUR        8,886,000        491,998         

BNP

       07/27/2018        EUR        8,886,000        USD        11,132,114               (734,142

BNP

       09/06/2018        USD        4,742,000        BRL        18,320,243        49,014         

BOA

       10/01/2018        USD        7,217,949        JPY        794,450,000               (4,684

DUB

       07/12/2018        USD        8,372,112        JPY        910,509,000        141,598         

DUB

       07/12/2018        JPY        910,509,000        USD        8,535,115               (304,601

DUB

       07/13/2018        USD        4,969,567        AUD        6,414,000        222,800         

DUB

       07/13/2018        USD        10,521,913        EUR        8,886,000        135,031         

DUB

       07/13/2018        EUR        8,886,000        USD        11,117,985               (731,104

DUB

       07/13/2018        AUD        6,414,000        USD        4,797,704               (50,937

DUB

       09/14/2018        GBP        6,253,000        USD        8,366,276               (85,975

DUB

       09/21/2018        GBP        6,253,000        USD        8,344,791               (61,980

GSI

       07/20/2018        USD        10,527,413        EUR        8,886,000        134,989         

GSI

       07/20/2018        EUR        8,886,000        USD        11,123,450               (731,026

GSI

       07/26/2018        USD        3,266,587        AUD        4,293,000        89,276         

GSI

       08/02/2018        PLN        16,728,000        USD        4,810,767               (342,790

GSI

       09/21/2018        SEK        41,312,954        EUR        3,999,000               (57,487

GSI

       09/28/2018        GBP        6,253,000        USD        8,346,082               (60,759

JPM

       08/10/2018        GBP        3,605,000        USD        4,904,083               (137,517

JPM

       08/20/2018        USD        1,323,105        EUR        1,114,000        17,180         

JPM

       08/23/2018        GBP        3,736,000        USD        5,041,834               (99,143

JPM

       08/31/2018        INR        1,906,431,941        USD        28,111,174               (488,731

JPM

       10/05/2018        GBP        6,231,000        USD        8,321,503               (62,554

MSCS

       07/27/2018        NOK        30,157,000        USD        3,794,145               (87,231

UBS

       07/12/2018        USD        6,431,569        EUR        5,432,000        82,566         

UBS

       07/12/2018        EUR        5,432,000        USD        6,743,230               (394,227

UBS

       08/03/2018        USD        10,898,546        EUR        8,886,000        495,711         

UBS

       08/03/2018        EUR        8,886,000        USD        11,136,619               (733,784
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total               $   2,077,675      $   (5,830,541
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY:

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

U.S. Government Obligations

    17.8      $   343,190,584  

Foreign Government Obligations

    5.6          108,757,372  

Banks

    4.4          84,659,289  

Internet Software & Services

    4.3          83,841,470  

Health Care Providers & Services

    4.1          79,150,273  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

    3.9          75,195,987  

Chemicals

    3.0          58,427,621  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

    2.9          55,739,867  

Media

    2.8          54,722,901  

Pharmaceuticals

    2.7          51,574,140  

Software

    2.6          49,626,902  

International Commodity Funds

    2.5          49,202,268  

Capital Markets

    2.2          42,875,325  

Food Products

    1.7          32,725,595  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies

    1.5          28,890,966  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY (continued):

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Airlines

    1.2 %        $ 22,325,059  

Auto Components

    1.1          21,571,796  

Internet & Direct Marketing Retail

    1.1          21,375,890  

Wireless Telecommunication Services

    1.1          21,169,397  

Insurance

    1.1          20,460,756  

Diversified Telecommunication Services

    1.0          19,994,795  

IT Services

    1.0          19,273,135  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment

    1.0          18,582,773  

Automobiles

    1.0          18,337,721  

Aerospace & Defense

    0.9          18,079,460  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

    0.9          17,565,772  

Real Estate Management & Development

    0.9          17,193,579  

Electric Utilities

    0.9          17,048,711  

Biotechnology

    0.9          16,560,579  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components

    0.7          13,067,331  

Tobacco

    0.6          11,823,420  

Household Products

    0.6          11,482,764  

Road & Rail

    0.6          11,036,858  

Household Durables

    0.5          10,486,398  

Beverages

    0.5          10,335,052  

Electrical Equipment

    0.5          10,187,161  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts

    0.5          9,027,720  

Specialty Retail

    0.4          6,836,572  

Gas Utilities

    0.3          6,507,699  

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods

    0.3          5,611,805  

Construction & Engineering

    0.3          5,160,470  

Personal Products

    0.2          4,450,037  

Over-the-Counter Options Purchased

    0.2          4,336,253  

Machinery

    0.2          4,171,777  

Building Products

    0.2          4,113,700  

Industrial Conglomerates

    0.2          4,039,165  

Multi-Utilities

    0.2          4,025,413  

Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers

    0.2          3,918,144  

Diversified Financial Services

    0.2          3,576,031  

Consumer Finance

    0.2          3,412,225  

Paper & Forest Products

    0.2          3,064,355  

Energy Equipment & Services

    0.2          2,952,837  

Metals & Mining

    0.1          2,344,796  

Food & Staples Retailing

    0.1          2,062,378  

Health Care Technology

    0.1          2,027,770  

Multiline Retail

    0.1          1,202,175  

Transportation Infrastructure

    0.0 (A)          765,598  

Construction Materials

    0.0 (A)          696,829  

Containers & Packaging

    0.0 (A)          615,489  

Life Sciences Tools & Services

    0.0 (A)          493,298  

Distributors

    0.0 (A)          341,880  

Trading Companies & Distributors

    0.0 (A)          301,588  

Communications Equipment

    0.0 (A)          132,370  

Commercial Services & Supplies

    0.0 (A)          47,557  

Diversified Consumer Services

    0.0 (A)          34,172  

Air Freight & Logistics

    0.0 (A)          29,920  

Professional Services

    0.0 (A)          18,954  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    0.0 (A)          768  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

    0.0          0  

Short-Term Investments

    15.5          299,206,787  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments and Securities Sold Short

    100.0      $   1,932,065,499  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (W)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs (X)
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 623,048,393     $ 425,219,842     $     $ 1,048,268,235  

Convertible Preferred Stocks

    11,584,411                   11,584,411  

Preferred Stocks

    3,545,714       21,958       6,392,255       9,959,927  

Exchange-Traded Funds

    49,202,268                   49,202,268  

Master Limited Partnership

    2,987,674                   2,987,674  

Rights

          584             584  

Warrants

          1             1  

Convertible Bonds

          6,205,735       546,000       6,751,735  

Corporate Debt Securities

          52,169,412             52,169,412  

Foreign Government Obligations

          108,757,372             108,757,372  

Loan Assignments

          2,167,986             2,167,986  

U.S. Government Obligations

          343,190,584             343,190,584  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

          18,674,421             18,674,421  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          262,812,028             262,812,028  

Securities Lending Collateral

    12,953,993                   12,953,993  

Repurchase Agreements

          4,766,345             4,766,345  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    768                   768  

Over-the-Counter Options Purchased

          4,336,253             4,336,253  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

          0             0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 703,323,221     $ 1,228,322,521     $ 6,938,255     $ 1,938,583,997  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Centrally Cleared Credit Default Swap Agreements

  $     $ 25,547     $     $ 25,547  

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          192,323             192,323  

Over-the-Counter Cross Currency Swap Agreements

          1,005,911             1,005,911  

Over-the-Counter Total Return Swap Agreements

          2,039,726             2,039,726  

Futures Contracts (Y)

    100,583                   100,583  

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (Y)

          2,077,675             2,077,675  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 100,583     $ 5,341,182     $     $ 5,441,765  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Securities Sold Short

 

Common Stocks

  $ (4,656,726   $ (1,861,772   $     $ (6,518,498
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Securities Sold Short

  $ (4,656,726   $ (1,861,772   $     $ (6,518,498
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Over-the-Counter Options Written

  $     $ (6,685,788   $     $ (6,685,788

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          (1,939,501           (1,939,501

Over-the-Counter Total Return Swap Agreements

          (2,420           (2,420

Futures Contracts (Y)

    (275,458                 (275,458

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (Y)

          (5,830,541           (5,830,541
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (275,458   $ (14,458,250   $     $ (14,733,708
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

Transfers

 

Investments   Transfers from
Level 1 to Level 2
    Transfers from
Level 2 to Level 1
    Transfers from
Level 2 to Level 3
    Transfers from
Level 3 to Level 1
 

Convertible Preferred Stocks (H)

  $     $     $     $ 3,717,277  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(B)    Non-income producing securities.
(C)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $12,426,993. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(D)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $36,534,335, representing 1.9% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the total value of securities is $7,119,553, representing 0.4% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(F)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $12,102,135 or 0.6% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(G)    Restricted securities. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities held by the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Investments    Description    Acquisition
Date
     Acquisition
Cost
       Value        Value as Percentage of
Net Assets
 

Common Stocks

  

Fieldwood Energy LLC

     03/13/2018      $ 181,297        $ 181,297          0.0 %(A) 

Preferred Stocks

  

Palantir Technologies, Inc., 0.00%

     05/02/2014        1,304,158          1,229,695          0.1  

Preferred Stocks

  

Uber Technologies, Inc., 0.00%

     05/02/2014        2,002,180          5,162,560          0.2  
        

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

         $   3,487,635        $   6,573,552          0.3
        

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

(H)    Transferred from Level 3 to 1 due to utilizing quoted market prices in active markets, which were not available at the prior reporting period.
(I)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(J)    Securities are Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
(K)    Securities deemed worthless.
(L)    Securities are exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. At June 30, 2018, the total value of Regulation S securities is $45,058,854, representing 2.4% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(M)    Securities in default; no interest payments received and/or dividends declared during the last 12 months. At June 30, 2018, the total value of such securities is $559,604, representing less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(N)    Securities in default; partial receipt of interest payments and/or dividends declared at last payment date. At June 30, 2018, the total value of such securities is $1,932,701, representing 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(O)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(P)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(Q)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.
(R)    Securities with a total value of $743,736 have been segregated by the broker as collateral for open over-the-counter options and/or swaptions, swap agreements and forward foreign currency contracts.
(S)    If the Portfolio is a seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Portfolio will either (a) pay to the buyer of protection an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation or (b) pay a net settlement amount in the form of cash or securities equal to the notional amount of the swap agreement less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation.
(T)    The maximum potential amount the Portfolio could be required to pay as a seller of credit protection or receive as a buyer of credit protection if a credit event occurs as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement.
(U)    The quoted market prices and resulting values for credit default swap agreements on asset-backed securities and credit indices serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of an expected liability (or profit) for the credit derivative had the notional amount of the swap agreement been closed/sold as of the period ended. Increasing market values, in absolute terms when compared to the notional amount of the swap agreement, represent a deterioration of the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement.
(V)    At the termination date, a net cash flow is exchanged where the total return is equivalent to the return of the reference entity less a financing rate, if any. As a receiver, the Portfolio would receive payments based on any positive total return and would owe payments in the event of a negative total return. As the payer, the Portfolio would owe payments on any net positive total return and would receive payment in the event of a negative total return.
(W)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(X)    Level 3 securities were not considered significant to the Portfolio.
(Y)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

AUD    Australian Dollar
BRL    Brazilian Real
CAD    Canadian Dollar
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
INR    Indian Rupee
JPY    Japanese Yen
MXN    Mexican Peso
NOK    Norwegian Krone
PLN    Polish Zloty
SEK    Swedish Krona
SGD    Singapore Dollar
USD    United States Dollar
ZAR    South African Rand

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

BCLY    Barclays Bank PLC
BNP    BNP Paribas
BOA    Bank of America, N.A.
CITI    Citibank N.A.
DUB    Deutsche Bank AG
GSC    Goldman Sachs & Co.
GSI    Goldman Sachs International
JPM    JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
MSCS    Morgan Stanley Capital Services Inc.
SG    Societe Generale
UBS    UBS AG

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt
CNX Nifty    CRISIL NSE Index (National Stock Exchange of India’s Benchmark Index)
CVA    Commanditaire Vennootschap op Aandelen (Dutch Certificate)
EURIBOR    Euro Interbank Offer Rate
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
NASDAQ    National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations
REIT    Real Estate Investment Trust
SGX    Singapore Exchange
SPDR    Standard & Poor’s Depositary Receipt
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $1,822,257,047)
(including securities loaned of $12,426,993)

  $ 1,933,817,652  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $4,766,345)

    4,766,345  

Cash collateral pledged at custodian:

 

Futures contracts

    1,712,330  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    5,626,770  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $1,371,921)

    1,362,584  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    86,245  

Investments sold

    7,731,342  

Interest

    3,416,493  

Dividends

    1,784,746  

Tax reclaims

    358,130  

Net income from securities lending

    18,204  

Variation margin receivables from futures contracts

    295,581  

Other

    811  

Prepaid expenses

    6,656  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    3,045,637  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    2,077,675  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,966,107,201  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    3,221,000  

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    120,000  

OTC derivatives (A)

    2,984,040  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    381,142  

Investments purchased

    46,010,871  

Investment management fees

    1,075,312  

Distribution and service fees

    271,011  

Transfer agent costs

    3,887  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    6,801  

Audit and tax fees

    24,582  

Custody fees

    118,085  

Legal fees

    21,626  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    131,221  

Dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    14,641  

Variation margin payable on centrally cleared swap agreements

    27,156  

Other

    22,798  

Collateral for securities on loan

    12,953,993  

Securities sold short, at value (proceeds $6,589,532)

    6,518,498  

Written options and swaptions, at value (premium received $5,291,740)

    6,685,788  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    2,420  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    5,830,541  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    86,425,413  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,879,681,788  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,491,073  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,679,882,188  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    29,424,668  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    61,402,074  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    111,560,605  

Securities sold short

    71,034  

Written options and swaptions

    (1,394,048

Swap agreements

    1,218,840  

Futures contracts

    (174,875

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (3,752,866

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (46,905
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,879,681,788  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 537,743,481  

Service Class

    1,341,938,307  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    57,714,571  

Service Class

    91,392,764  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 9.32  

Service Class

    14.68  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 13,931,532  

Interest income

    8,497,894  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    281,353  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (883,161
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    21,827,618  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    7,075,814  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,740,307  

Transfer agent costs

    13,818  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    30,234  

Audit and tax fees

    30,034  

Custody fees

    525,075  

Legal fees

    86,680  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    70,483  

Dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    36,344  

Other

    25,668  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    9,634,457  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (69,599

Service Class

    (182,892
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    9,381,966  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    12,445,652  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    41,698,379  

Securities sold short

    (121,777

Written options and swaptions

    2,283,827  

Swap agreements

    580,443  

Futures contracts

    (1,552,754

Forward foreign currency contracts

    1,631,406  

Foreign currency transactions

    1,129,679  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    45,649,203  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (72,807,471

Securities sold short

    71,034  

Written options and swaptions

    (3,447,411

Swap agreements

    (4,040,981

Futures contracts

    (305,350

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (5,803,364

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (75,843
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (86,409,386
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (40,760,183
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (28,314,531
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 12,445,652     $ 21,015,521  

Net realized gain (loss)

    45,649,203       60,530,716  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (86,409,386     157,271,728  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (28,314,531     238,817,965  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (9,877,765

Service Class

          (15,194,447
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (25,072,212
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    25,005,575       36,131,875  

Service Class

    3,581,604       28,938,597  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    28,587,179       65,070,472  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          9,877,765  

Service Class

          15,194,447  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          25,072,212  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (5,008,878     (8,385,665

Service Class

    (84,347,798     (92,479,829
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (89,356,676     (100,865,494
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (60,769,497     (10,722,810
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (89,084,028     203,022,943  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,968,765,816       1,765,742,873  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,879,681,788     $   1,968,765,816  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 29,424,668     $ 16,979,016  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    2,648,118       3,962,642  

Service Class

    239,620       2,064,710  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,887,738       6,027,352  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          1,092,673  

Service Class

          1,064,037  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,156,710  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (532,567     (965,363

Service Class

    (5,645,797     (6,488,924
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (6,178,364     (7,454,287
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    2,115,551       4,089,952  

Service Class

    (5,406,177     (3,360,177
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,290,626     729,775  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    23


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 9.45     $ 8.47     $ 8.24     $ 9.92     $ 10.43     $ 9.39  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.07       0.12       0.11 (C)       0.10       0.11       0.27  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.20     1.05       0.28       (0.19     0.11       1.08  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.13     1.17       0.39       (0.09     0.22       1.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.19     (0.08     (0.29     (0.30     (0.19

Net realized gains

                (0.08     (1.30     (0.43     (0.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.19     (0.16     (1.59     (0.73     (0.31
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.32     $ 9.45     $ 8.47     $ 8.24     $ 9.92     $ 10.43  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.38 )%(E)      13.75     4.69     (0.88 )%      2.09     14.61
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   537,744     $   525,413     $   436,406     $   374,668     $   122,871     $   5,587  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture, including dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    0.81 %(G)      0.84     0.83     0.82     0.78     0.10

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture, including dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    0.79 %(G)      0.81     0.81 %(C)      0.81     0.77     0.05

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture, excluding dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    0.79 %(G)      0.79     0.80 %(C)      0.80     0.77 %(H)      0.05

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.49 %(G)      1.30     1.35 %(C)      1.13     1.08     2.66

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    72 %(E)      114     120     79     47 %(J)     

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Dividends and interest from securities sold short rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    Excludes investment securities received in-kind.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 14.91     $ 13.27     $ 12.82     $ 14.55     $ 14.98     $ 13.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.09       0.15       0.14 (C)       0.13       0.09       0.29  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.32     1.64       0.44       (0.31     0.18       1.62  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.23     1.79       0.58       (0.18     0.27       1.91  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.15     (0.05     (0.25     (0.27     (0.16

Net realized gains

                (0.08     (1.30     (0.43     (0.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.15     (0.13     (1.55     (0.70     (0.28
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 14.68     $ 14.91     $ 13.27     $ 12.82     $ 14.55     $ 14.98  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.54 )%(E)      13.49     4.56     (1.23 )%      1.74     14.43
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,341,938     $   1,443,353     $   1,329,337     $   1,234,334     $   1,283,518     $   1,321,781  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture, including dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    1.07 %(G)      1.09     1.08     1.07     0.83     0.35

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture, including dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    1.04 %(G)      1.06     1.06 %(C)      1.06     0.81     0.30

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture, excluding dividends, interest, and fees for borrowings from securities sold short

    1.04 %(G)      1.04     1.05 %(C)      1.05     0.81 %(H)      0.30

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.22 %(G)      1.05     1.10 %(C)      0.90     0.62     2.06

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    72 %(E)      114     120     79     47 %(J)     

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Dividends and interest from securities sold short rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    Excludes investment securities received in-kind.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    26


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. BASIS FOR CONSOLIDATION

 

Transamerica Cayman Blackrock Global Allocation VP, Ltd. (the “Subsidiary”) entered into a separate contract with TAM for the management of the Subsidiary pursuant to which the Subsidiary pays TAM a fee that is the same, as a percentage of net assets, as the management fee of the Portfolio. TAM has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the Portfolio’s management fee in an amount equal to the management fee paid to TAM by the Subsidiary, in order that the aggregate total management fee paid by the Portfolio and its Subsidiary equals the amount of the management fee that would have been paid by the Portfolio to TAM had the Portfolio not invested assets in the Subsidiary. This management fee waiver, which is reflected in the Portfolio expense waiver and/or reimbursement on the Consolidated Statement of Operations, may not be discontinued by TAM as long as its contract with the Subsidiary is in place.

The following table reflects the net assets of the Subsidiary as a percentage of the Portfolio’s net assets at June 30, 2018:

 

Value    Percentage of
Net Assets
$  53,593,339    2.85%

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

4. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Consolidated Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    28


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Convertible bonds: The fair value of convertible bonds is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, broker price quotations (where observable), and models incorporating benchmark curves, underlying stock data, and foreign exchange rates. While most convertible bonds are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Loan assignments: Loan assignments are normally valued using an income approach, which projects future cash flows and converts those future cash flows to a present value using a discount rate. The resulting present value reflects the likely fair value of the loan. To

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Rights: Rights may be priced intrinsically using a model that incorporates the subscription or strike price, the daily market price for the underlying security, and a subscription ratio. If the inputs are unavailable, or if the subscription or strike price is higher than the market price, then the rights are priced at zero. Rights are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Warrants: Warrants may be priced intrinsically using a model that incorporates the subscription or strike price, the daily market price for the underlying security, and a subscription ratio. If the inputs are unavailable, or if the subscription or strike price is higher than the market price, then the warrants are priced at zero. Warrants are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Restricted securities: Restricted securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Portfolio’s Board. Restricted securities issued by publicly traded companies are generally valued at a discount to similar publicly traded securities. Restricted securities issued by nonpublic entities may be valued by reference to comparable public entities and/or fundamental data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

5. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Loan participations and assignments: The Portfolio may invest in direct debt instruments which are interests in amounts owed to lenders or lending syndicates by corporate, governmental, or other borrowers, either in the form of participations at the time the loan is originated (“Participations”) or buying an interest in the loan in the secondary market from a financial institution or institutional investor (“Assignments”). Participations and Assignments in commercial loans may be secured or unsecured. These investments may include standby financing commitments, including revolving credit facilities that obligate the Portfolio to supply additional cash to the borrowers on demand. Loan Participations and Assignments involve risks of insolvency of the lending banks or other financial intermediaries. As such, the Portfolio assumes the credit risks associated with the corporate borrowers and may assume the credit risks associated with the interposed banks or other financial intermediaries.

The Portfolio, based on its ability to invest in Loan Participations and Assignments, may be contractually obligated to receive approval from the agent banks and/or borrowers prior to the sale of these investments. The Portfolio that participates in such syndications, or that can buy a portion of the loans, become part lenders. Loans are often administered by agent banks acting as agents for all holders.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

The agent banks administer the terms of the loans, as specified in the loan agreements. In addition, the agent banks are normally responsible for the collection of principal and interest payments from the corporate borrowers and the apportionment of these payments to the credit of all institutions that are parties to the loan agreements. Unless the Portfolio has direct recourse against the corporate borrowers under the terms of the loans or other indebtedness, the Portfolio may have to rely on the agent banks or other financial intermediaries to apply appropriate credit remedies against corporate borrowers.

The Portfolio held no unsecured loan participations at June 30, 2018. Open secured loan participations and assignments at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments.

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified in the Consolidated Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments.

6. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

termination. Amounts presented within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments and Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Consolidated Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments and Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Short sales: A short sale is a transaction in which the Portfolio sells securities it does not own, but has borrowed, in anticipation of a decline in the fair market value of the securities. The Portfolio is obligated to replace the borrowed securities at the market price at the time of replacement. The Portfolio’s obligation to replace the securities borrowed in connection with a short sale is fully secured by collateral deposited with the custodian. In addition, the Portfolio considers the short sale to be a borrowing by the Portfolio that is subject to the asset coverage requirements of the 1940 Act. Short sales represent an aggressive trading practice with a high risk/return potential, and short sales involve special considerations. Risks of short sales include that possible losses from short sales may be unlimited (e.g., if the price of stocks sold short rises), whereas losses from direct purchases of securities are limited to the total amount invested, and the Portfolio may be unable to replace borrowed securities sold short.

The Portfolio investing in short sales is liable for any dividends and/or interest payable on securities in a short position and these payables, if any, are reflected as Dividends and interest payable from securities sold short in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The Portfolio also bears other costs, such as charges for the prime brokerage accounts, in connection with short positions. These costs are reported as Dividends and interest from securities sold short on the Statement of Operations.

Open short sale transactions at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments and are reflected as a liability in the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 8,933,553     $     $     $     $ 8,933,553  

Rights

    555                         555  

Corporate Debt Securities

    4,019,885                         4,019,885  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 12,953,993     $     $     $     $ 12,953,993  

Total Borrowings

  $   12,953,993     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   12,953,993  
                                         

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on exchange-traded funds and/or securities: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on ETFs and/or securities. Purchasing or writing options on ETFs and/or securities gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell a specified ETF and/or security as an underlying instrument for the option contract.

Options on foreign currency: The Portfolio may purchase or write foreign currency options. Purchasing or writing options on foreign currency gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the currency and will specify the amount of currency and a rate of exchange that may be exercised by a specified date.

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Interest rate swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. The writer of the swaption becomes the counterparty to the swap if the buyer exercises. The interest rate swaption agreement will specify whether the buyer of the swaption will be a fixed-rate receiver or a fixed-rate payer upon exercise.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Written options: Writing call options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. Writing put options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. When the Portfolio writes a covered call or put option, the premium received is recorded as a liability within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. Premiums received from written options which expire unexercised are treated as realized gains. Premiums received from writing options which are exercised or closed are added to the proceeds or offset against amounts paid on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss. In writing an option, the Portfolio bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security or currency underlying the written option. Exercise of an option written by the Portfolio could result in the Portfolio selling or buying a security or currency at a price different from the current market value.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Swap agreements: Swap agreements are bilaterally negotiated agreements between the Portfolio and a counterparty to exchange or swap investments, cash flows, assets, foreign currencies, or market-linked returns at specified, future intervals. Swap agreements can be executed in a bilateral privately negotiated arrangement with a dealer in an OTC transaction or executed on a regular market. Certain swaps regardless of the venue of execution are required to be cleared through a clearinghouse (“centrally cleared swap agreements”). Centrally cleared swap agreements listed or traded on a multilateral platform, are valued at the daily settlement price determined by the corresponding exchange. For centrally cleared credit default swap agreements the clearing exchange requires all members to provide applicable levels across complete term levels. Centrally cleared interest rate swap agreements are valued using a pricing model that references the underlying rates including but not limited to the overnight index swap rate and London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) forward rate to calculate the daily settlement price. The Portfolio may enter into credit default, cross-currency, interest rate, total return, and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit, currency, interest rate, and commodity risks. In connection with these agreements, securities or cash may be identified as collateral or margin in accordance with the terms of the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Swap agreements are marked-to-market daily based upon values from third party vendors, which may include a registered exchange, or quotations from market makers to the extent available and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

For OTC swap agreements, payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are reflected as such within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represent payments made or received upon entering into the swap agreements to compensate for differences between the stated terms of the swap agreement and prevailing market conditions (credit spreads, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and other relevant factors). These upfront payments are recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations upon termination or maturity of the swap. A liquidation payment received or made at the termination of the swap is recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Net periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are included as part of Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Credit default swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio enters into credit default swap agreements to manage its exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market to reduce its risk exposure to defaults of corporate and sovereign issuers, or to create exposure to corporate or sovereign issuers to which it is not otherwise exposed. Credit default swap agreements involve the exchange of a fixed rate premium for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security in the event of a defined credit event, such as payment default or bankruptcy (buy protection).

Under a credit default swap agreement, one party acts as a guarantor by receiving the fixed periodic payment in exchange for the commitment to purchase the underlying security at par if the defined credit event occurs (sell protection). The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the notional amount of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The Portfolio sells credit default swap agreements, which exposes it to risk of loss from credit risk related events specified in the contracts. Although contract-specific, credit events are generally defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, restructuring, obligation acceleration, obligation default, or repudiation/moratorium. If a defined credit event had occurred during the period, the swap agreements’ credit-risk-related contingent features would have been triggered, and the Portfolio would have been required to pay the notional amounts for the credit default swap agreements with a sell protection less the value of the contracts’ related reference obligations.

Cross-currency swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to foreign currency exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The Portfolio enters into cross-currency swap agreements to gain or reduce exposure to foreign currencies or to hedge against foreign currency exchange rate and/or interest rate risk. Cross-currency swap agreements are interest rate swap agreements in which two parties agree to exchange cash flows based on the notional amounts of two different currencies. The Portfolio with cross currency swap agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or, receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate on the notional amounts of two different currencies. The notional amounts are typically determined based on the spot exchange rates at the inception of the trade. Cross-currency swap agreements can also involve an exchange of notional amounts at the start, during and/or at expiration of the contract, either at the current spot rate or another specified rate.

Interest rate swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Because the Portfolio holds fixed rate bonds, the value of these bonds may decrease if interest rates rise. To help hedge against this risk, the Portfolio enters into interest rate swap agreements. Under an interest rate swap agreement, two parties will exchange cash flows based on a notional principal amount. A Portfolio with interest rate agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate, on a notional principal amount. The risks of interest rate swap agreements include changes in market conditions which will affect the value of the contract or the cash flows, and the possible inability of the counterparty to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk is the discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from/paid to the counterparties over the contracts’ remaining lives, to the extent that amount is positive. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

Total return swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to commodity risk, equity risk, and other risks related to the underlying investments of the swap agreement in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The value of the commodity-linked investments held by a Portfolio can be affected by a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, overall market movements and other factors affecting the value of particular industries or commodities, such as weather, disease, embargoes, acts of war or terrorism, or political and regulatory developments. Commodity-linked derivatives are available from a relatively small number of issuers, subjecting the Portfolio’s investments in commodity-linked derivatives to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the commodity-linked derivative will not fulfill its contractual obligations. Total return swap agreements on commodities involve commitments whereby cash flows are exchanged based on the price of a commodity in exchange for either a fixed or floating price or rate. One party would receive payments based on the market value of the commodity involved and pay a fixed amount. Total return swap agreements on indices involve commitments to pay interest in exchange for a market-linked return. One counterparty pays out the total return of a specific reference entity, which may be an equity, index, or bond, and in return receives a regular stream of payments.

Open centrally cleared swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments. Centrally cleared swap agreements are marked-to-market daily and an appropriate payable or receivable for the variation margin is recorded, if applicable, and is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on centrally cleared swap agreements within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Open OTC swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments. The value, as applicable, is shown in OTC swap agreements, at value within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments. Unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, is shown in Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $     $     $ 4,337,021     $     $     $ 4,337,021  

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (B) (C)

    192,323                   25,547             217,870  

OTC swap agreements, at value

          1,005,911       2,039,726                   3,045,637  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (B) (D)

                100,583                   100,583  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          2,077,675                         2,077,675  

Total

  $   192,323     $   3,083,586     $   6,477,330     $   25,547     $   —     $   9,778,786  
                                                 
Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Written options and swaptions, at value

  $     $     $ (6,685,788   $     $     $ (6,685,788

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value

    (1,939,501                             (1,939,501

OTC swap agreements, at value

                (2,420                 (2,420

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (B) (D)

                (275,458                 (275,458

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          (5,830,541                       (5,830,541

Total

  $   (1,939,501   $   (5,830,541   $   (6,963,666   $   —     $   —     $   (14,733,708
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Investments, at value on the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

(C)   Included within Value of centrally cleared swap agreements as reported in the Schedule of Investments or Consolidated Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(D)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments or Consolidated Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Consolidated Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $ (1,257,994   $ (1,903,085   $ 3,421,708     $     $     $ 260,629  

Written options and swaptions

    (319,708     814,278       1,789,257                   2,283,827  

Swap agreements

          (133,256     (370,465     1,182,896       (98,732           580,443  

Futures contracts

                (1,552,754                 (1,552,754

Forward foreign currency contracts (B)

             1,631,406                         1,631,406  

Total

  $ (1,710,958   $ 172,134     $    4,841,107     $   (98,732   $   —     $    3,203,551  
                                                 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (C)

  $ 841,672     $ (448,962   $ (3,909,758   $     $     $ (3,517,048

Written options and swaptions

    (535,604     (435,823     (2,475,984                 (3,447,411

Swap agreements

    (2,188,268     (291,012     (1,619,905     58,204             (4,040,981

Futures contracts

                (305,350                 (305,350

Forward foreign currency contracts (D)

          (5,803,364                       (5,803,364

Total

  $   (1,882,200   $   (6,979,161   $   (8,310,997   $   58,204     $   —     $   (17,114,154
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.
(C)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(D)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options
and Swaptions
at value
  Written Options and
Swaptions at value
  Swap
Agreements
at Notional
Amount
  Futures Contracts at
Notional Amount
  Forward Foreign
Currency Contracts at
Contract Amount
Calls   Puts   Calls   Puts        Long   Short   Purchased   Sold   Cross
Currency
$  6,805,064   $  200,785   $  (1,771,354)   $  (2,996,114)   $  167,162,110   7,751   (39,153)   $  137,514,594   $  57,800,315   $  13,979,769

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    37


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
    Net Amount    

 

    Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
    Net Amount  
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
 
    Assets           Liabilities  

Bank of America, N.A.

  $ 1,650,989     $ (712,273   $ (743,736   $ 194,980       $ 712,273     $ (712,273   $     $  

Barclays Bank PLC

    179,673       (179,673                   1,796,854       (179,673           1,617,181  

BNP Paribas

    2,718,522       (1,293,926     (1,424,596             1,293,926       (1,293,926            

Citibank N.A.

    116,026       (116,026                   910,360       (116,026     (1,960     792,374  

Deutsche Bank AG

    639,279       (639,279                   1,765,369       (639,279           1,126,090  

Goldman Sachs & Co.

                                                 

Goldman Sachs International

    329,953       (329,953                   1,192,062       (329,953           862,109  

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

    35,899       (35,899                   787,945       (35,899           752,046  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services Inc.

    574,285       (574,285                   1,111,940       (574,285           537,655  

Societe Generale

    173,961       (173,961                   338,961       (173,961           165,000  

UBS AG

    3,040,978       (2,609,059     (431,919             2,609,059       (2,609,059            

Other Derivatives (C)

    319,221                   319,221         2,214,959                   2,214,959  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   9,778,786     $   (6,664,334   $   (2,600,251   $   514,201       $   14,733,708     $   (6,664,334   $   (1,960   $   8,067,414  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.
(C)   Other Derivatives, which includes future contracts, exchange-traded options and exchange-traded swap agreements, are not subject to a master netting arrangement or another similar arrangement. The amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the amount presented within the Consolidated Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    38


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Emerging market risk: Investments in the securities of issuers located in or principally doing business in emerging markets are subject to heightened foreign investments risks. Emerging market countries tend to have economic, political and legal systems that are less fully developed and are less stable than those of more developed countries. Emerging market securities are often particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect speculative expectations. Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in extreme price volatility.

Foreign investment risk: Investing in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involves additional risk. Foreign countries in which the Fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile than U.S. markets. The value of the Fund’s investments may decline because of factors affecting a particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, political or financial instability or other adverse economic or political developments. Lack of information and weaker accounting standards also may affect the value of these securities.

9. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $3 billion

     0.71

Over $3 billion up to $5 billion

     0.70  

Over $5 billion

     0.69  

The Subsidiary entered into a separate contract with TAM for the management of the Subsidiary pursuant to which the Subsidiary pays TAM a fee that is the same, as a percentage of net assets, as the management fee of the Fund. TAM has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the Portfolio’s management fee in an amount equal to the management fee paid to TAM by the Subsidiary. This management fee waiver, which is reflected in Portfolio expense waiver and/or reimbursement on the Consolidated Statement of Operations, may not be discontinued by TAM as long as its contract with the Subsidiary is in place.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the amount waived was $252,491 for the Subsidiary, and are not subject to recapture.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    39


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.90      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.15        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Consolidated Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Consolidated Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    40


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

 

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  414,377,971   $  791,549,722     $  526,684,644   $  734,375,923

11. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  1,820,449,004

  $  165,360,367   $  (57,902,712)   $  107,457,655

12. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

13. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    41


Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3-year period and in line with the median for the past 1- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Trustees also noted recent changes in the Portfolio’s portfolio management team.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Global Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    44


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

       

Actual Expenses

 

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

   
Class   Beginning
Account Value
  Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
  Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
  Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
  Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
  Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)

Service Class

  $  1,000.00   $  996.50   $  2.77   $  1,022.00   $  2.81   0.56%

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Fund

     49.8

U.S. Equity Funds

     37.6  

International Equity Funds

     12.4  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     0.2  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 99.8%  
International Equity Funds - 12.4%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol EAFE ETF

    144,447        $  10,275,960  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol Emerging Markets ETF

    49,159        2,843,356  
    

 

 

 
       13,119,316  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 37.6%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF

    166,137        8,831,843  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF

    79,923        8,767,553  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF

    105,821        8,830,762  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Size Factor ETF

    57,174        4,799,769  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Value Factor ETF

    104,416        8,625,806  
    

 

 

 
       39,855,733  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (continued)  
U.S. Fixed Income Fund - 49.8%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    495,756        $   52,708,778  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $101,624,696)

 

     105,683,827  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $101,624,696)

 

     105,683,827  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 0.2%

 

     228,528  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  105,912,355  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (A)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 105,683,827     $     $     $ 105,683,827  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $   105,683,827     $   —     $   —     $   105,683,827  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $101,624,696)

  $ 105,683,827  

Cash

    498,522  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    72,346  

Dividends

    190,348  

Prepaid expenses

    253  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    106,445,296  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    794  

Investments purchased

    480,799  

Investment management fees

    18,829  

Distribution and service fees

    19,988  

Transfer agent costs

    86  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    80  

Audit and tax fees

    8,723  

Custody fees

    1,651  

Legal fees

    684  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    747  

Other

    560  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    532,941  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   105,912,355  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 92,527  

Additional paid-in capital

    99,348,299  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    1,741,270  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    671,128  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    4,059,131  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 105,912,355  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    9,252,656  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 11.45  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $   997,690  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    997,690  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    123,650  

Distribution and service fees

    103,042  

Transfer agent costs

    498  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,178  

Audit and tax fees

    8,667  

Custody fees

    8,006  

Legal fees

    2,371  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    1,180  

Other

    803  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    249,395  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

    (23,150

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees

    4,569  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    230,814  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    766,876  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    176,364  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    (1,210,283
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (1,033,919
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (267,043
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 766,876     $ 1,024,396  

Net realized gain (loss)

    176,364       534,655  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (1,210,283     5,844,005  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (267,043     7,403,056  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income

          (465,955

Net realized gains

          (96,404
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (562,359
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

   

Proceeds from shares sold

    37,918,124       24,319,436  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          562,359  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (3,067,424     (5,999,193
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    34,850,700       18,882,602  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    34,583,657       25,723,299  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    71,328,698       45,605,399  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   105,912,355     $   71,328,698  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,741,270     $ 974,394  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued

    3,311,433       2,266,179  

Shares reinvested

          51,451  

Shares redeemed

    (269,019     (549,451
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    3,042,414       1,768,179  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods and year indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 11.49     $ 10.27      $ 10.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

       

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

     0.10       0.18        0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (0.14     1.14        0.07 (D)  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     (0.04     1.32        0.27  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

       

Net investment income

           (0.08       

Net realized gains

           (0.02       
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.10       
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 11.45     $ 11.49      $ 10.27  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (E)

     (0.35 )%(F)      12.85      2.70 %(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

       

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   105,912     $   71,329      $   45,605  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

       

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.61 %(H)      0.61      0.79 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.56 %(H)      0.56      0.56 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

     1.86 %(H)      1.65      2.52 %(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     3 %(F)      9      6 %(F) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on March 21, 2016.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rate:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1 billion

     0.30

Over $1 billion

     0.28  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
   Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
Service Class    0.56%    May 1, 2019

 

(A)   TAM has contractually agreed to waive 0.05% of its management fee through May 1, 2019. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available    
2016   2017   2018   Total
$  23,561   $  4,454   $  2,541   $  30,556

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  37,805,982     $  2,461,117

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  101,624,696   $  5,294,478   $  (1,235,347)   $  4,059,131

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 50 VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,004.10     $   2.78     $   1,022.00     $   2.81       0.56

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     56.4

U.S. Fixed Income Fund

     24.9  

International Equity Funds

     18.6  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     0.1  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 99.9%  
International Equity Funds - 18.6%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol EAFE ETF

    101,531        $  7,222,915  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol Emerging Markets ETF

    35,108        2,030,647  
    

 

 

 
       9,253,562  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 56.4%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF

    116,709        6,204,250  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF

    55,883        6,130,365  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF

    73,886        6,165,787  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Size Factor ETF

    41,467        3,481,163  

iShares Edge MSCI USA Value Factor ETF

    73,055        6,035,074  
    

 

 

 
       28,016,639  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (continued)  
U.S. Fixed Income Fund - 24.9%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    116,116        $   12,345,453  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $46,444,215)

 

     49,615,654  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $46,444,215)

 

     49,615,654  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 0.1%

       64,334  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  49,679,988  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (A)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 49,615,654     $     $     $ 49,615,654  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 49,615,654     $     $     $ 49,615,654  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $46,444,215)

  $ 49,615,654  

Cash

    141,252  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Dividends

    136,860  

Prepaid expenses

    153  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    49,893,919  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    3,217  

Investments purchased

    182,116  

Investment management fees

    8,855  

Distribution and service fees

    9,612  

Transfer agent costs

    47  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    66  

Audit and tax fees

    8,419  

Custody fees

    712  

Legal fees

    344  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    342  

Other

    201  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    213,931  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   49,679,988  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 40,795  

Additional paid-in capital

    45,163,599  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    848,573  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    455,582  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    3,171,439  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 49,679,988  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    4,079,507  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 12.18  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 498,284  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    498,284  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    61,009  

Distribution and service fees

    50,840  

Transfer agent costs

    268  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    601  

Audit and tax fees

    8,417  

Custody fees

    5,161  

Legal fees

    1,250  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    647  

Other

    393  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    128,586  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

    (14,703
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    113,883  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    384,401  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    229,120  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    (569,441
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

      (340,321
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 44,080  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 384,401     $ 479,431  

Net realized gain (loss)

    229,120       247,469  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (569,441     3,782,164  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    44,080       4,509,064  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income

          (137,263

Net realized gains

          (39,097
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (176,360
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

   

Proceeds from shares sold

    13,095,614       24,569,698  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          176,360  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (2,512,773     (2,498,189
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    10,582,841       22,247,869  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    10,626,921       26,580,573  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    39,053,067       12,472,494  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   49,679,988     $   39,053,067  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 848,573     $ 464,172  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued

    1,070,210       2,222,980  

Shares reinvested

          15,635  

Shares redeemed

    (210,486     (224,779
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    859,724       2,013,836  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods and year indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 12.13     $ 10.34      $ 10.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

       

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

     0.11       0.19        0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (0.06     1.66        0.11 (D)  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.05       1.85        0.34  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

       

Net investment income

           (0.05       

Net realized gains

           (0.01       
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.06       
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 12.18     $ 12.13      $ 10.34  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (E)

     0.41 %(F)      17.96      3.40 %(F) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

       

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   49,680     $   39,053      $   12,472  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

       

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.63 %(H)      0.67      1.33 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.56 %(H)      0.56      0.56 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

     1.89 %(H)      1.70      2.87 %(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     5 %(F)      10      11 %(F) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on March 21, 2016.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rate:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1 billion

     0.30

Over $1 billion

     0.28

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
   Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
Service Class    0.56%    May 1, 2019

 

(A)   TAM has contractually agreed to waive 0.05% of its management fee through May 1, 2019. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available    
2016   2017   2018   Total
$  30,640   $  15,943   $  4,535   $  51,118

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  13,037,537     $  2,098,768

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  46,444,215   $  3,408,943   $  (237,504)   $  3,171,439

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Smart Beta 75 VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe and above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,003.00     $   0.70     $   1,024.10     $   0.70       0.14

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,001.90       1.94       1,022.90       1.96       0.39  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     36.4

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     26.1  

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     20.7  

International Equity Fund

     9.1  

International Mixed Allocation Fund

     7.4  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.4  

International Alternative Fund

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 4.6%  
International Equity Fund - 1.9%  

WisdomTree Japan Hedged Equity Fund

    548,983        $  29,634,102  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Fund - 1.4%  

SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust

    76,472        20,745,324  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Fund - 1.3%  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    251,509        19,916,998  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $71,579,057)

 

     70,296,424  
    

 

 

 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 95.1%  
International Alternative Fund - 0.0% (A)  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)

    79,640        429,795  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Fund - 7.2%  

Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP (F) (G)

    11,737,181        110,564,242  
    

 

 

 
International Mixed Allocation Fund - 7.4%  

Transamerica Blackrock Global Allocation VP (F) (G)

    12,200,333        113,707,100  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 35.0%  

Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP (F) (G)

    3,581,838        89,331,041  

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (F) (G)

    9,048,428        108,128,711  

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (F) (G)

    9,301,444        204,445,746  

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (F) (G)

    3,308,470        55,714,639  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (F) (G)

    2,422,373        77,879,293  
    

 

 

 
       535,499,430  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 24.8%  

Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP (F) (G)

    18,064,818        $   229,965,137  

Transamerica Short-Term Bond (F) (H)

    15,067,301        149,015,605  
    

 

 

 
       378,980,742  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 20.7%  

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (F) (G)

    27,900,482        316,670,467  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $1,414,306,352)

 

     1,455,851,776  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (I), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $6,390,889 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $6,521,498.

    $  6,390,409        6,390,409  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $6,390,409)

 

     6,390,409  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,492,275,818)

 

     1,532,538,609  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (1,293,521
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,531,245,088  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (J)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 70,296,424     $     $     $ 70,296,424  

Investment Companies

    1,455,421,981                   1,455,421,981  

Repurchase Agreement

          6,390,409             6,390,409  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 1,525,718,405     $ 6,390,409     $     $ 1,532,108,814  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Companies Measured at Net Asset Value (E)

          429,795  
       

 

 

 

Total Investments

        $ 1,532,538,609  
       

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(B)    Non-income producing security.
(C)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $429,795 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(D)    Restricted security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such security held by the Portfolio is as follows:

 

Investments    Description   Acquisition
Date
    Acquisition
Cost
    Value     Value as Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Investment Companies

  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust

    07/31/2014     $   819,372     $   429,795       0.0 %(A) 

 

(E)    Certain investments are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share, or its equivalent, practical expedient and have not been classified in the fair value levels. The fair value amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the Total Investments amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.
(F)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments   Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica Barrow Hanley Dividend Focused VP   $ 91,874,146     $     $     $     $ (2,543,105   $ 89,331,041       3,581,838     $     $  
Transamerica Blackrock Global Allocation VP     115,293,143                         (1,586,043     113,707,100       12,200,333              
Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust     444,568                         (14,774     429,795       79,640              
Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP     100,770,559       86,000,000       (70,600,000     12,831,829       (18,438,146     110,564,242       11,737,181              
Transamerica Jennison Growth VP     97,451,567                         10,677,145       108,128,711       9,048,428              
Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP     274,121,272       27,800,000       (67,500,000     (18,979     (4,437,156     229,965,137       18,064,818              
Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP     182,355,976       99,500,000       (84,600,000     22,588,950       (15,399,180     204,445,746       9,301,444              
Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP     55,846,978                         (132,339     55,714,639       3,308,470              
Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP     362,921,872       27,800,001       (67,500,000     (3,721,241     (2,830,165     316,670,467       27,900,482              
Transamerica Short-Term Bond     223,546,275       50,240,972       (122,500,000     (1,275,918     (995,724     149,015,605       15,067,301       2,520,495        
Transamerica WMC US Growth VP     70,854,411                         7,024,882       77,879,293       2,422,373              

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   1,575,480,767     $   291,340,973     $   (412,700,000   $   30,404,641     $   (28,674,605   $   1,455,851,776         112,712,308     $   2,520,495     $  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(G)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.
(H)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.
(I)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(J)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $1,414,306,352)

   $ 1,455,851,776  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $71,579,057)

     70,296,424  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $6,390,409)

     6,390,409  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

     9,499  

Interest

     160  

Dividends

     462,692  

Net income from securities lending

     204  

Prepaid expenses

     5,254  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     1,533,016,418  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     827,449  

Investments purchased

     321,811  

Investment management fees

     151,479  

Distribution and service fees

     302,694  

Transfer agent costs

     3,471  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     5,897  

Audit and tax fees

     22,637  

Custody fees

     2,336  

Legal fees

     19,514  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     67,842  

Other

     46,200  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     1,771,330  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   1,531,245,088  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 959,242  

Additional paid-in capital

     1,374,540,839  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     15,664,267  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     99,817,949  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     41,545,424  

Unaffiliated investments

     (1,282,633
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 1,531,245,088  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 27,192,279  

Service Class

     1,504,052,809  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     2,719,506  

Service Class

     93,204,681  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 10.00  

Service Class

     16.14  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income from affiliated investments

   $ 2,520,495  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

     1,026,407  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

     15,882  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     9,306  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     3,572,090  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     959,908  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     1,923,144  

Transfer agent costs

     11,444  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     24,898  

Audit and tax fees

     21,585  

Custody fees

     11,966  

Legal fees

     48,851  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     34,311  

Other

     17,559  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

     3,053,666  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     518,424  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     30,404,641  

Unaffiliated investments

     4,787,423  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

     35,192,064  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

       (28,674,605

Unaffiliated investments

     (3,707,179
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (32,381,784
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     2,810,280  
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ 3,328,704  
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 518,424     $ 15,200,816  

Net realized gain (loss)

    35,192,064       68,614,003  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (32,381,784     95,383,548  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3,328,704       179,198,367  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (749,127

Service Class

          (23,355,868
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (24,104,995
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (727,426

Service Class

          (26,407,489
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (27,134,915
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (51,239,910
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    433,814       864,770  

Service Class

    3,450,092       14,225,294  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    3,883,906       15,090,064  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          1,476,553  

Service Class

          49,763,357  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          51,239,910  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,533,112     (3,279,519

Service Class

    (105,905,264     (143,793,808
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (107,438,376     (147,073,327
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (103,554,470     (80,743,353
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (100,225,766     47,215,104  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,631,470,854       1,584,255,750  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,531,245,088     $   1,631,470,854  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 15,664,267     $ 15,145,843  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    43,295       87,494  

Service Class

    214,612       925,235  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    257,907       1,012,729  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          154,290  

Service Class

          3,214,687  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          3,368,977  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (153,176     (334,697

Service Class

    (6,552,071     (9,173,665
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (6,705,247     (9,508,362
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (109,881     (92,913

Service Class

    (6,337,459     (5,033,743
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (6,447,340     (5,126,656
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Initial Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 9.97     $ 9.40      $ 9.80     $ 10.93      $ 10.91      $ 10.11  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

     0.02       0.12        0.17 (C)       0.27        0.31        0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     0.01       0.98        0.34       (0.27      0.26        1.02  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.03       1.10        0.51              0.57        1.25  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.27      (0.39     (0.32      (0.23      (0.22

Net realized gains

           (0.26      (0.52     (0.81      (0.32      (0.23
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.53      (0.91     (1.13      (0.55      (0.45
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 10.00     $ 9.97      $ 9.40     $ 9.80      $ 10.93      $ 10.91  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     0.30 %(E)      12.02      5.16     0.06      5.35      12.63
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   27,192     $   28,202      $   27,478     $   27,879      $   30,241      $   5,063  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.14 %(G)      0.14      0.14     0.14      0.15      0.15

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.14 %(G)      0.14      0.14 %(C)      0.14      0.15      0.15

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

     0.31 %(G)      1.18      1.78 %(C)      2.57      2.85      2.19

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

     25 %(E)      15      18     8      44      25

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 16.11     $ 14.89      $ 15.02     $ 16.14      $ 15.87      $ 14.53  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

     0.00 (C)       0.15        0.23 (D)       0.37        0.32        0.29  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     0.03       1.56        0.51       (0.39      0.48        1.48  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.03       1.71        0.74       (0.02      0.80        1.77  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.23      (0.35     (0.29      (0.21      (0.20

Net realized gains

           (0.26      (0.52     (0.81      (0.32      (0.23
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.49      (0.87     (1.10      (0.53      (0.43
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 16.14     $ 16.11      $ 14.89     $ 15.02      $ 16.14      $ 15.87  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (E)

     0.19 %(F)      11.68      4.91     (0.12 )%       5.07      12.35
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   1,504,053     $   1,603,269      $   1,556,778     $   1,509,931      $   1,496,764      $   1,156,614  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.39 %(H)      0.39      0.39     0.39      0.40      0.40

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.39 %(H)      0.39      0.39 %(D)      0.39      0.40      0.40

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

     0.06 %(H)      0.93      1.53 %(D)      2.35      1.99      1.90

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     25 %(F)      15      18     8      44      25

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Restricted securities: Restricted securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Portfolio’s Board. Restricted securities issued by publicly traded companies are generally valued at a discount to similar publicly traded securities. Restricted securities issued by nonpublic entities may be valued by reference to comparable public entities and/or fundamental data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

 

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1 billion

     0.13

Over $1 billion

     0.11  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.25    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.50      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  402,378,465     $  507,911,913

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,492,275,818   $  71,634,188   $  (31,371,397)   $  40,262,791

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3-year period, in line with the median for the past 5-year period and below the median for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees and TAM agreed upon an additional breakpoint to the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica BlackRock Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   980.20     $   4.62     $   1,020.10     $   4.71       0.94

Service Class

    1,000.00       978.90       5.84       1,018.90       5.96       1.19  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULES OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     98.9

Securities Lending Collateral

     1.6  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.4  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.9

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 98.9%  
Australia - 5.7%  

Goodman Group, REIT

    212,399        $  1,512,128  

LendLease Group

    353,398        5,180,953  

Mirvac Group, REIT

    2,918,694        4,687,156  

Scentre Group, REIT

    1,006,533        3,270,044  
    

 

 

 
       14,650,281  
    

 

 

 
Belgium - 0.6%  

Warehouses de Pauw CVA, REIT

    12,918        1,635,284  
    

 

 

 
Canada - 0.5%  

First Capital Realty, Inc. (A)

    81,300        1,277,647  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 3.6%  

Deutsche EuroShop AG

    40,115        1,417,569  

LEG Immobilien AG

    13,449        1,461,890  

Vonovia SE

    133,741        6,366,009  
    

 

 

 
       9,245,468  
    

 

 

 
Hong Kong - 9.9%  

China Overseas Land & Investment, Ltd.

    400,000        1,317,936  

China Resources Land, Ltd.

    392,000        1,321,556  

CK Asset Holdings, Ltd.

    1,302,380        10,341,883  

Hongkong Land Holdings, Ltd.

    913,538        6,531,797  

Link REIT

    102,500        936,082  

Sun Hung Kai Properties, Ltd.

    185,472        2,799,006  

Wheelock & Co., Ltd.

    338,000        2,354,402  
    

 

 

 
       25,602,662  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 0.7%  

Green REIT PLC

    546,168        943,966  

Hibernia REIT PLC

    548,301        960,459  
    

 

 

 
       1,904,425  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 13.6%  

AEON REIT Investment Corp.

    1,237        1,426,770  

Fukuoka REIT Corp.

    637        1,010,317  

Hulic Co., Ltd. (A)

    395,698        4,228,070  

Japan Hotel REIT Investment Corp.

    2,966        2,223,529  

Kenedix Office Investment Corp., REIT

    325        2,019,600  

LaSalle Logiport REIT

    538        533,554  

Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd.

    533,994        12,897,078  

Nippon Prologis REIT, Inc.

    1,433        2,974,334  

Nomura Real Estate Holdings, Inc.

    99,015        2,198,246  

Orix JREIT, Inc.

    2,074        3,313,829  

Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd.

    185,600        2,549,768  
    

 

 

 
       35,375,095  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 0.8%  

Grand City Properties SA

    83,258        2,162,366  
    

 

 

 
Norway - 0.5%  

Entra ASA (B)

    100,371        1,370,429  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 3.2%  

CapitaLand, Ltd.

    2,082,228        4,829,241  

City Developments, Ltd.

    274,031        2,198,282  

Mapletree North Asia Commercial Trust, REIT

    1,642,100        1,373,940  
    

 

 

 
       8,401,463  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 1.3%  

Hispania Activos Inmobiliarios SOCIMI SA, REIT

    72,206        1,537,193  

Inmobiliaria Colonial Socimi SA, REIT (A)

    43,191        477,400  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Spain (continued)  

Merlin Properties Socimi SA, REIT

    91,166        $   1,326,005  
    

 

 

 
       3,340,598  
    

 

 

 
Sweden - 3.3%  

Castellum AB

    213,142        3,454,106  

Fabege AB

    225,414        2,689,843  

Kungsleden AB

    147,761        1,019,525  

Wihlborgs Fastigheter AB

    109,548        1,267,597  
    

 

 

 
       8,431,071  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 5.2%  

Grainger PLC

    302,041        1,227,746  

Hammerson PLC, REIT

    623,911        4,303,124  

Land Securities Group PLC, REIT

    156,856        1,980,886  

Segro PLC, REIT

    223,517        1,974,641  

Tritax Big Box REIT PLC

    801,734        1,649,560  

UNITE Group PLC, REIT

    210,246        2,389,036  
    

 

 

 
       13,524,993  
    

 

 

 
United States - 50.0%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc., REIT

    53,810        6,789,208  

American Campus Communities, Inc., REIT

    39,385        1,688,829  

Brixmor Property Group, Inc., REIT

    228,501        3,982,772  

Columbia Property Trust, Inc., REIT

    91,843        2,085,755  

Cousins Properties, Inc., REIT

    326,792        3,166,614  

CubeSmart, REIT

    138,737        4,470,106  

CyrusOne, Inc., REIT

    73,274        4,276,271  

Douglas Emmett, Inc., REIT

    98,623        3,962,672  

Duke Realty Corp., REIT

    89,796        2,606,778  

Equinix, Inc., REIT

    23,712        10,193,552  

Equity Residential, REIT

    64,919        4,134,691  

Essex Property Trust, Inc., REIT

    52,107        12,457,220  

Extra Space Storage, Inc., REIT

    95,754        9,557,207  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    123,934        9,810,615  

Hudson Pacific Properties, Inc., REIT

    102,216        3,621,513  

Invitation Homes, Inc., REIT

    183,864        4,239,904  

Iron Mountain, Inc., REIT

    43,526        1,523,845  

Macerich Co., REIT

    70,853        4,026,576  

Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc., Class A, REIT

    94,592        1,885,219  

Prologis, Inc., REIT

    120,480        7,914,331  

Regency Centers Corp., REIT

    57,185        3,550,045  

Simon Property Group, Inc., REIT

    67,850        11,547,392  

SL Green Realty Corp., REIT

    11,389        1,144,936  

Sun Communities, Inc., REIT

    17,722        1,734,629  

Taubman Centers, Inc., REIT

    61,363        3,605,690  

VICI Properties, Inc., REIT

    268,502        5,541,881  
    

 

 

 
       129,518,251  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $251,188,273)

 

     256,440,033  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.6%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    4,238,973        4,238,973  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $4,238,973)

 

     4,238,973  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $1,026,748 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $1,049,089.

    $  1,026,671        $   1,026,671  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $1,026,671)

 

     1,026,671  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $256,453,917)

 

     261,705,677  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.9)%

 

     (2,436,911
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  259,268,766  
    

 

 

 
 

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY:

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts

    62.7      $ 164,166,473  

Real Estate Management & Development

    31.5          82,462,945  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

    3.8          9,810,615  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investments, at Value

    98.0          256,440,033  

Short-Term Investments

    2.0          5,265,644  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments

    100.0      $   261,705,677  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 130,795,898     $ 125,644,135     $     $ 256,440,033  

Securities Lending Collateral

    4,238,973                   4,238,973  

Repurchase Agreement

          1,026,671             1,026,671  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 135,034,871     $ 126,670,806     $     $ 261,705,677  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $4,025,493. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Security is registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the security is deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the value of the 144A security is $1,370,429, representing 0.5% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CVA    Commanditaire Vennootschap op Aandelen (Dutch Certificate)
REIT    Real Estate Investment Trust

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $255,427,246)
(including securities loaned of $4,025,493)

  $ 260,679,006  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $1,026,671)

    1,026,671  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $130,717)

    130,313  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    153,888  

Investments sold

    1,542,317  

Interest

    26  

Dividends

    830,637  

Tax reclaims

    64,666  

Net income from securities lending

    456  

Prepaid expenses

    657  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    264,428,637  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    18,326  

Investments purchased

    589,639  

Investment management fees

    169,615  

Distribution and service fees

    18,353  

Transfer agent costs

    1,117  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,312  

Audit and tax fees

    11,178  

Custody fees

    54,574  

Legal fees

    7,759  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    42,123  

Other

    6,902  

Collateral for securities on loan

    4,238,973  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    5,159,871  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 259,268,766  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 198,078  

Additional paid-in capital

    289,862,636  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    18,275,384  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (54,318,885

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    5,251,760  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (207
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   259,268,766  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 167,545,001  

Service Class

    91,723,765  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    12,998,693  

Service Class

    6,809,143  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.89  

Service Class

    13.47  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income

   $ 5,367,589  

Interest income

     6,780  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     21,502  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

     (221,030
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     5,174,841  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     1,076,316  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     116,118  

Transfer agent costs

     2,045  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     4,374  

Audit and tax fees

     10,937  

Custody fees

     106,733  

Legal fees

     10,980  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     19,699  

Other

     7,204  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1,354,406  
  

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

  

Initial Class

     (8,978

Service Class

     (4,998
  

 

 

 

Net expenses

     1,340,430  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     3,834,411  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Investments

     (3,554,814

Foreign currency transactions

     (91,484
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

     (3,646,298
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     (5,802,977

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

     (2,774
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (5,805,751
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     (9,452,049
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   (5,617,638
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 3,834,411     $ 5,909,467  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (3,646,298     8,536,420  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (5,805,751     22,615,749  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (5,617,638     37,061,636  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (11,198,131

Service Class

          (3,150,035
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (14,348,166
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    2,119,124       4,976,952  

Service Class

    849,613       3,808,026  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,968,737       8,784,978  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          11,198,131  

Service Class

          3,150,035  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          14,348,166  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (8,151,436     (224,872,956

Service Class

    (6,730,757     (10,088,453
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (14,882,193     (234,961,409
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (11,913,456     (211,828,265
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (17,531,094       (189,114,795
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    276,799,860       465,914,655  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   259,268,766     $ 276,799,860  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 18,275,384     $ 14,440,973  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    166,856       392,236  

Service Class

    64,027       288,106  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    230,883       680,342  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          898,726  

Service Class

          241,567  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,140,293  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (638,537     (17,994,718

Service Class

    (504,845     (761,337
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,143,382     (18,756,055
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (471,681     (16,703,756

Service Class

    (440,818     (231,664
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (912,499     (16,935,420
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.15     $ 12.26     $ 12.39     $ 13.06     $ 11.67     $ 11.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.19       0.22       0.31 (B)       0.22       0.24       0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.45     1.14       (0.22     (0.30     1.34       0.20  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.26     1.36       0.09       (0.08     1.58       0.43  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.47     (0.22     (0.59     (0.19     (0.68
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.89     $ 13.15     $ 12.26     $ 12.39     $ 13.06     $ 11.67  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (1.98 )%(D)      11.32     0.62     (0.60 )%      13.56     3.90
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   167,545     $   177,075     $   370,080     $   274,688     $   452,444     $   329,290  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.95 %(E)      0.92     0.89     0.89     0.90     0.90

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.94 %(E)      0.92     0.87 %(B)      0.89     0.90     0.90

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    3.05 %(E)      1.66     2.45 %(B)      1.66     1.90     1.93

Portfolio turnover rate

    89 %(D)      119     46     56     30     38

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.76     $ 12.81     $ 12.93     $ 13.61     $ 12.16     $ 12.39  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.18       0.16       0.31 (B)       0.19       0.22       0.21  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.47     1.23       (0.24     (0.31     1.40       0.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.29     1.39       0.07       (0.12     1.62       0.43  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.44     (0.19     (0.56     (0.17     (0.66
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.47     $ 13.76     $ 12.81     $ 12.93     $ 13.61     $ 12.16  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (2.11 )%(D)      11.01     0.42     (0.87 )%      13.29     3.71
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   91,724     $   99,725     $   95,835     $   102,053     $   106,430     $   79,667  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.20 %(E)      1.17     1.14     1.14     1.15     1.15

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.19 %(E)      1.17     1.13 %(B)      1.14     1.15     1.15

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.78 %(E)      1.23     2.33 %(B)      1.38     1.67     1.64

Portfolio turnover rate

    89 %(D)      119     46     56     30     38

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as non-diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $44,389.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (REIT): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements    

 

 
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total         

Securities Lending Transactions

 

 

Common Stocks

  $ 4,238,973     $     $     $     $ 4,238,973          

Total Borrowings

  $ 4,238,973     $     $     $     $   4,238,973          
                                                 

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”) and real estate risk: Investments in the real estate industry are subject to risks associated with direct investment in real estate. These risks include declines in the value of real estate, adverse general and local economic conditions, increased competition, overbuilding and changes in operating expenses, property taxes or interest rates. A REIT’s performance depends on the types and locations of the properties it owns, how well it manages those properties and cash flow. REITs may have lower trading volumes and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than the overall securities markets. In addition to its own expenses, a Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management and other expenses paid by REITs in which it invests. U.S. REITs are subject to a number of highly technical tax-related rules and requirements; and a U.S. REIT’s failure to qualify for the favorable U.S. federal income tax treatment generally available to U.S. REITs could result in corporate-level taxation, significantly reducing the return on an investment to the Fund.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

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Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.830

Over $250 million up to $500 million

     0.805  

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.730  

Over $1 billion

     0.680  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     1.00      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.25        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to

 

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Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  234,194,723   $  —     $  241,291,465   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

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Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  256,453,917   $  10,116,737   $  (4,864,977)   $  5,251,760

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and CBRE Clarion Securities, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

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Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period, in line with the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods and below the median for the past 10-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Trustees discussed the reasons for the underperformance with TAM and TAM agreed to continue to closely monitor and report to the Board on the performance of the Portfolio.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   950.60     $   4.64     $   1,020.00     $   4.81       0.96

Service Class

    1,000.00       949.60       5.85       1,018.80       6.06       1.21  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.8

Repurchase Agreement

     1.2  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     1.0  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.8%      
Australia - 3.4%  

Northern Star Resources, Ltd.

    1,226,774        $  6,591,166  

Westpac Banking Corp.

    552,326        11,976,342  
    

 

 

 
       18,567,508  
    

 

 

 
China - 7.2%  

ANTA Sports Products, Ltd.

    2,853,000        15,109,380  

NetEase, Inc., ADR

    29,258        7,392,619  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

    168,300        8,447,606  

YY, Inc., ADR (B)

    86,750        8,715,773  
    

 

 

 
       39,665,378  
    

 

 

 
Denmark - 1.0%  

Topdanmark A/S

    127,636        5,589,620  
    

 

 

 
Finland - 1.5%  

Neste OYJ

    104,600        8,208,607  
    

 

 

 
France - 10.8%  

AXA SA

    637,704        15,650,096  

TOTAL SA

    260,509        15,883,452  

Valeo SA

    221,511        12,111,423  

Vinci SA

    163,266        15,702,926  
    

 

 

 
       59,347,897  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 4.0%  

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

    136,007        12,329,893  

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

    88,176        9,808,077  
    

 

 

 
       22,137,970  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 5.4%  

Kingspan Group PLC

    314,659        15,756,633  

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC

    340,146        13,783,621  
    

 

 

 
       29,540,254  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 24.6%  

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd.

    265,200        13,586,365  

Daito Trust Construction Co., Ltd.

    52,100        8,475,103  

Haseko Corp.

    952,300        13,168,688  

Isuzu Motors, Ltd.

    459,300        6,104,502  

Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    164,500        10,876,033  

Minebea Mitsumi, Inc.

    592,400        10,027,165  

Nidec Corp.

    88,900        13,349,253  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    284,700        12,949,909  

Nitori Holdings Co., Ltd.

    60,700        9,473,838  

SoftBank Group Corp.

    191,600        13,797,830  

Sugi Holdings Co., Ltd.

    126,100        7,300,736  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    404,400        15,728,189  
    

 

 

 
       134,837,611  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 1.7%  

Aroundtown SA

    1,109,315        9,113,548  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 2.2%  

Euronext NV (C)

    195,072        12,403,987  
    

 

 

 
Norway - 6.4%  

DNB ASA

    835,016          16,332,556  

Equinor ASA

    701,238        18,632,291  
    

 

 

 
       34,964,847  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 1.5%  

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

    199,000        8,329,610  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 2.1%  

Banco Santander SA

    2,174,431        11,660,468  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)      
Sweden - 2.8%  

Atlas Copco AB, B Shares

    439,070        $   11,502,808  

Epiroc AB (B)

    439,070        4,019,733  
    

 

 

 
       15,522,541  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 5.3%  

Roche Holding AG

    62,017        13,811,824  

Swiss Life Holding AG (B)

    43,942        15,308,482  
    

 

 

 
       29,120,306  
    

 

 

 
Taiwan - 1.9%  

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., ADR

    283,260        10,355,986  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 13.8%  

Ashtead Group PLC

    484,990        14,548,695  

Barratt Developments PLC

    1,015,428        6,906,935  

Beazley PLC

    1,377,327        10,651,886  

British American Tobacco PLC

    278,599        14,082,188  

Compass Group PLC

    688,512        14,706,727  

GlaxoSmithKline PLC

    732,911        14,797,138  
    

 

 

 
       75,693,569  
    

 

 

 
United States - 2.2%  

Shire PLC

    213,683        12,027,651  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $561,417,384)

 

     537,087,358  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.2%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (D), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $6,348,157 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $6,476,104.

    $  6,347,681        6,347,681  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $6,347,681)

 

     6,347,681  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $567,765,065)

 

     543,435,039  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 1.0%

 

     5,303,669  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  548,738,708  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY:

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Banks

    10.3      $ 55,697,555  

Insurance

    8.7          47,200,084  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

    7.9          42,724,350  

Pharmaceuticals

    5.3          28,608,962  

Machinery

    4.7          25,549,706  

Internet Software & Services

    4.5          24,555,998  

Auto Components

    4.2          22,987,456  

Household Durables

    3.7          20,075,623  

Automobiles

    3.4          18,434,395  

Real Estate Management & Development

    3.2          17,588,651  

Building Products

    2.9          15,756,633  

Construction & Engineering

    2.9          15,702,926  

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods

    2.8          15,109,380  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

    2.7          14,706,727  

Trading Companies & Distributors

    2.7          14,548,695  

Tobacco

    2.6          14,082,188  

Wireless Telecommunication Services

    2.5          13,797,830  

Containers & Packaging

    2.5          13,783,621  

Beverages

    2.5          13,586,365  

Electrical Equipment

    2.5          13,349,253  

Diversified Telecommunication Services

    2.4          12,949,909  

Capital Markets

    2.3          12,403,987  

Biotechnology

    2.2          12,027,651  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment

    1.9          10,355,986  

Household Products

    1.8          9,808,077  

Specialty Retail

    1.7          9,473,838  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

    1.5          8,329,610  

Food & Staples Retailing

    1.3          7,300,736  

Metals & Mining

    1.2          6,591,166  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investments, at Value

    98.8          537,087,358  

Short-Term Investments

    1.2          6,347,681  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments

    100.0      $   543,435,039  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (A)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 26,464,378     $ 510,622,980     $     $ 537,087,358  

Repurchase Agreement

          6,347,681             6,347,681  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 26,464,378     $ 516,970,661     $     $ 543,435,039  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(B)    Non-income producing securities.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(C)    Security is registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the security is deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the value of the 144A security is $12,403,987, representing 2.3% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(E)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $561,417,384)

  $ 537,087,358  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $6,347,681)

    6,347,681  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $2,283,229)

    2,274,704  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    561,837  

Investments sold

    39,943  

Interest

    158  

Dividends

    1,552,609  

Tax reclaims

    1,418,554  

Prepaid expenses

    2,226  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    549,285,070  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    78,142  

Investment management fees

    343,382  

Distribution and service fees

    27,703  

Transfer agent costs

    576  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,866  

Audit and tax fees

    17,624  

Custody fees

    37,467  

Legal fees

    4,968  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    27,356  

Other

    7,278  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    546,362  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   548,738,708  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 585,440  

Additional paid-in capital

    472,837,792  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    10,994,916  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    88,661,464  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (24,330,026

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (10,878
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 548,738,708  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 412,857,554  

Service Class

    135,881,154  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    43,831,537  

Service Class

    14,712,497  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 9.42  

Service Class

    9.24  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 10,683,565  

Interest income

    38,808  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    19,352  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (1,209,881
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    9,531,844  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    2,458,697  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    178,182  

Transfer agent costs

    3,974  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    8,610  

Audit and tax fees

    15,616  

Custody fees

    179,271  

Legal fees

    17,949  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    28,612  

Other

    40,300  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,931,211  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    6,600,633  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    87,691,838  

Foreign currency transactions

    (210,313
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    87,481,525  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (122,465,722

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (50,980
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (122,516,702
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (35,035,177
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (28,434,544
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 6,600,633     $ 4,774,669  

Net realized gain (loss)

    87,481,525       6,855,378  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (122,516,702     86,155,613  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (28,434,544     97,785,660  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (3,391,896

Service Class

          (1,500,195
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (4,892,091
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

   

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    97,058,131       176,584,436  

Service Class

    4,938,490       23,400,111  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    101,996,621       199,984,547  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          3,391,896  

Service Class

          1,500,195  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          4,892,091  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (96,227,731     (29,408,443

Service Class

    (7,213,514     (9,762,331
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
      (103,441,245     (39,170,774
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (1,444,624     165,705,864  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (29,879,168     258,599,433  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    578,617,876       320,018,443  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $ 548,738,708     $   578,617,876  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 10,994,916     $ 4,394,283  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    9,842,050       19,017,663  

Service Class

    507,032       2,590,102  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    10,349,082       21,607,765  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          364,720  

Service Class

          164,135  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          528,855  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (9,739,105     (3,182,399

Service Class

    (744,165     (1,089,920
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (10,483,270     (4,272,319
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    102,945       16,199,984  

Service Class

    (237,133     1,664,317  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (134,188     17,864,301  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 9.91     $ 7.89     $ 8.06     $ 8.19     $ 8.72     $ 7.47  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.11       0.10       0.12 (B)       0.12       0.14       0.10  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.60     2.04       (0.11     (0.11     (0.59     1.24  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.49     2.14       0.01       0.01       (0.45     1.34  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.12     (0.12     (0.14     (0.08     (0.09

Net realized gains

                (0.06                  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.12     (0.18     (0.14     (0.08     (0.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.42     $ 9.91     $ 7.89     $ 8.06     $ 8.19     $ 8.72  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (4.94 )%(D)      27.24     0.08     0.08     (5.17 )%      18.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   412,858     $   433,218     $   217,079     $   256,000     $   272,525     $   284,043  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(E)      1.00     1.02     1.02     1.02     1.03

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(E)      1.00     1.00 %(B)      1.02     1.02     1.03

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.35 %(E)      1.12     1.56 %(B)      1.36     1.67     1.21

Portfolio turnover rate

    110 %(D)      13     16     17     22     16

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value,beginning of period/year

  $ 9.73     $ 7.75     $ 7.92     $ 8.06     $ 8.59     $ 7.37  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.10       0.09       0.10 (B)       0.09       0.12       0.08  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.59     1.99       (0.11     (0.11     (0.58     1.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.49     2.08       (0.01     (0.02     (0.46     1.30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.10     (0.10     (0.12     (0.07     (0.08

Net realized gains

                (0.06                  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.10     (0.16     (0.12     (0.07     (0.08
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.24     $ 9.73     $ 7.75     $ 7.92     $ 8.06     $ 8.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (5.04 )%(D)      26.98     (0.13 )%      (0.24 )%      (5.41 )%      17.77
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   135,881     $   145,400     $   102,939     $   100,677     $   72,777     $   61,867  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.21 %(E)      1.25     1.27     1.27     1.27     1.28

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.21 %(E)      1.25     1.25 %(B)      1.27     1.27     1.28

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.17 %(E)      1.06     1.27 %(B)      1.04     1.39     0.97

Portfolio turnover rate

    110 %(D)      13     16     17     22     16

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP (formerly, Transamerica MFS International Equity VP) (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as non-diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Emerging market risk: Investments in the securities of issuers located in or principally doing business in emerging markets are subject to heightened foreign investments risks. Emerging market countries tend to have economic, political and legal systems that are less fully developed and are less stable than those of more developed countries. Emerging market securities are often particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect speculative expectations. Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in extreme price volatility.

Foreign investment risk: Investing in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involves additional risk. Foreign countries in which the Fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile than U.S. markets. The value of the Fund’s investments may decline because of factors affecting a particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, political or financial instability or other adverse economic or political developments. Lack of information and weaker accounting standards also may affect the value of these securities.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

Effective May 1, 2018

  

First $500 million

     0.905

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.880  

Over $1 billion up to $1.5 billion

     0.830  

Over $1.5 billion up to $2 billion

     0.805  

Over $2 billion

     0.780  

Prior to May 1, 2018

  

First $500 million

     0.770  

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.760  

Over $1 billion up to $2 billion

     0.710  

Over $2 billion up to $3 billion

     0.695  

Over $3 billion

     0.680  

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     1.13      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.38        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolios for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolios’ operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)

$  39,908

  $  1,730,464   $  961,380

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government

$  627,162,267

  $  —     $  624,544,433   $  —

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  567,765,065   $  7,601,158   $  (31,931,184)   $  (24,330,026)

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica MFS International Equity Opportunities VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP (formerly, Transamerica MFS International Equity Opportunities VP) (the “Portfolio”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of the Management Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of the Management Agreement through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Management Agreement, including information they had previously received from TAM as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within their respective peer groups or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Management Agreement, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; and TAM’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica MFS International Equity Opportunities VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3- and 10-year periods and in line with the median for the past 1- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 10-year periods and below its benchmark for the past 5-year period. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on May 1, 2018 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management Fee and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Portfolio’s sub-adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Board further noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee had been lowered in connection with the recent sub-adviser change. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management fee to be received by TAM under the Management Agreement is reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Greystone International Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica MFS International Equity Opportunities VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM may not directly correlate with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM and its Affiliates from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM and/or its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Portfolio’s sub-advisers. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Management Agreement.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   932.80     $   0.81(C )     $   1,023.90     $   0.90       0.18

Service Class

    1,000.00       970.40       2.10(B )       1,022.70       2.16       0.43  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Class commenced operations on January 12, 2018. Actual expenses are calculated using each Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (169 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days). For comparability purposes, hypothetical expenses assume that the Portfolios were in operation for the entire six-month period ended June 30, 2018. Thus, the hypothetical expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.8

Preferred Stocks

     0.6  

Rights

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     1.6  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.8%  
Australia - 6.9%  

AGL Energy, Ltd.

    759        $  12,627  

Alumina, Ltd.

    2,812        5,827  

Amcor, Ltd.

    1,307        13,938  

AMP, Ltd.

    2,724        7,177  

APA Group

    1,633        11,904  

Aristocrat Leisure, Ltd.

    561        12,829  

ASX, Ltd.

    218        10,388  

Aurizon Holdings, Ltd.

    2,751        8,815  

AusNet Services

    4,447        5,282  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.

    3,512        73,397  

Bank of Queensland, Ltd.

    637        4,804  

Bendigo & Adelaide Bank, Ltd.

    896        7,188  

BHP Billiton PLC

    2,590        58,314  

BHP Billiton, Ltd.

    3,794        95,211  

BlueScope Steel, Ltd.

    767        9,797  

Boral, Ltd.

    1,731        8,365  

Brambles, Ltd.

    1,747        11,481  

Caltex Australia, Ltd.

    288        6,935  

Challenger, Ltd.

    812        7,109  

CIMIC Group, Ltd.

    164        5,134  

Coca-Cola Amatil, Ltd.

    1,220        8,306  

Cochlear, Ltd.

    69        10,221  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

    2,060        111,091  

Computershare, Ltd.

    637        8,688  

Crown Resorts, Ltd.

    641        6,404  

CSL, Ltd.

    512        72,985  

Dexus, REIT

    1,191        8,558  

Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, Ltd.

    103        3,981  

Flight Centre Travel Group, Ltd.

    90        4,239  

Fortescue Metals Group, Ltd.

    2,524        8,200  

Goodman Group, REIT

    1,627        11,583  

GPT Group, REIT

    3,094        11,586  

Healthscope, Ltd.

    2,977        4,869  

Incitec Pivot, Ltd.

    1,424        3,825  

Insurance Australia Group, Ltd.

    2,707        17,088  

LendLease Group

    741        10,863  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    393        35,962  

Medibank Pvt, Ltd.

    3,546        7,663  

Mirvac Group, REIT

    4,565        7,331  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.

    3,287        66,676  

Newcrest Mining, Ltd.

    763        12,310  

Oil Search, Ltd.

    1,830        12,053  

Orica, Ltd.

    365        4,795  

Origin Energy, Ltd. (A)

    2,238        16,612  

QBE Insurance Group, Ltd.

    1,509        10,877  

Ramsay Health Care, Ltd.

    186        7,430  

REA Group, Ltd.

    20        1,345  

Santos, Ltd. (A)

    2,135        9,907  

Scentre Group, REIT

    6,012        19,532  

SEEK, Ltd.

    286        4,616  

Sonic Healthcare, Ltd.

    471        8,550  

South32, Ltd.

    6,066        16,206  

Stockland, REIT

    2,886        8,479  

Suncorp Group, Ltd.

    1,406        15,181  

Sydney Airport

    1,310        6,941  

Tabcorp Holdings, Ltd.

    2,407        7,945  

Telstra Corp., Ltd.

    4,456        8,640  

Transurban Group

    2,821          24,990  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Australia (continued)  

Treasury Wine Estates, Ltd.

    905        $   11,647  

Vicinity Centres, REIT

    4,488        8,602  

Wesfarmers, Ltd.

    1,288        47,049  

Westpac Banking Corp.

    3,853        83,546  

Woodside Petroleum, Ltd.

    1,078        28,289  

Woolworths Group, Ltd.

    1,486        33,563  
    

 

 

 
       1,205,746  
    

 

 

 
Austria - 0.2%  

Andritz AG

    84        4,459  

Erste Group Bank AG (A)

    348        14,529  

OMV AG

    161        9,132  

Raiffeisen Bank International AG

    126        3,868  

voestalpine AG

    151        6,957  
    

 

 

 
       38,945  
    

 

 

 
Belgium - 1.1%  

Ageas

    216        10,900  

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA

    917        92,631  

Colruyt SA

    90        5,136  

Groupe Bruxelles Lambert SA

    95        10,020  

KBC Group NV

    287        22,161  

Proximus SADP

    133        2,999  

Solvay SA

    101        12,756  

Telenet Group Holding NV (A)

    47        2,195  

UCB SA

    120        9,437  

Umicore SA

    264        15,153  
    

 

 

 
       183,388  
    

 

 

 
Chile - 0.0% (B)  

Antofagasta PLC

    393        5,135  
    

 

 

 
China - 0.0% (B)  

Minth Group, Ltd.

    1,000        4,225  
    

 

 

 
Denmark - 1.6%  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class A

    4        4,749  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B

    8        9,966  

Carlsberg A/S, Class B

    123        14,490  

Chr Hansen Holding A/S

    123        11,363  

Coloplast A/S, Class B

    123        12,296  

Danske Bank A/S

    855        26,769  

DSV A/S

    233        18,830  

Genmab A/S (A)

    82        12,658  

H. Lundbeck A/S

    89        6,255  

ISS A/S

    215        7,390  

Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B

    2,135        99,054  

Novozymes A/S, Class B

    300        15,221  

Orsted A/S (C)

    193        11,677  

Pandora A/S

    127        8,874  

Tryg A/S

    137        3,217  

Vestas Wind Systems A/S

    236        14,612  

William Demant Holding A/S (A)

    129        5,193  
    

 

 

 
       282,614  
    

 

 

 
Finland - 1.0%  

Elisa OYJ

    200        9,265  

Fortum OYJ

    572        13,654  

Kone OYJ, Class B

    411        20,955  

Metso OYJ

    140        4,692  

Neste OYJ

    134        10,516  

Nokia OYJ

    6,405        36,875  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Finland (continued)  

Nokian Renkaat OYJ

    97        $   3,833  

Orion OYJ, Class B

    162        4,368  

Sampo OYJ, Class A

    570        27,824  

Stora Enso OYJ, Class R

    747        14,621  

UPM-Kymmene OYJ

    672        24,030  

Wartsila OYJ Abp

    429        8,432  
    

 

 

 
       179,065  
    

 

 

 
France - 10.3%  

Accor SA

    223        10,943  

Aeroports de Paris

    42        9,501  

Air Liquide SA

    527        66,282  

Airbus SE

    700        81,959  

Alstom SA

    193        8,871  

Amundi SA (C)

    47        3,257  

Arkema SA

    79        9,355  

Atos SE

    89        12,155  

AXA SA

    2,360        57,917  

BioMerieux

    37        3,331  

BNP Paribas SA

    1,387        86,154  

Bollore SA

    1,026        4,773  

Bouygues SA

    224        9,655  

Bureau Veritas SA

    319        8,516  

Capgemini SE

    195        26,233  

Carrefour SA

    782        12,666  

Casino Guichard Perrachon SA

    17        660  

Cie de Saint-Gobain

    530        23,687  

Cie Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA

    195        23,751  

CNP Assurances

    203        4,620  

Covivio, REIT

    49        5,098  

Credit Agricole SA

    1,516        20,244  

Danone SA

    733        53,817  

Dassault Aviation SA

    3        5,718  

Dassault Systemes SE

    141        19,759  

Edenred

    271        8,564  

Eiffage SA

    83        9,032  

Electricite de France SA

    618        8,502  

Engie SA

    2,244        34,408  

Essilor International Cie Generale d’Optique SA

    256        36,144  

Eurazeo SA

    66        5,006  

Eutelsat Communications SA

    235        4,875  

Faurecia SA

    98        6,995  

Gecina SA, REIT

    58        9,706  

Getlink

    652        8,943  

Hermes International

    36        22,021  

ICADE, REIT

    15        1,407  

Iliad SA

    37        5,848  

Imerys SA

    59        4,771  

Ingenico Group SA

    91        8,183  

Ipsen SA

    33        5,177  

JCDecaux SA

    76        2,544  

Kering SA

    93        52,522  

Klepierre SA, REIT

    253        9,528  

L’Oreal SA

    293        72,368  

Legrand SA

    335        24,607  

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

    337        112,240  

Natixis SA

    1,188        8,432  

Orange SA

    2,451        41,059  

Pernod Ricard SA

    241        39,373  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
France (continued)  

Peugeot SA

    733        $   16,743  

Publicis Groupe SA

    232        15,969  

Remy Cointreau SA

    22        2,852  

Renault SA

    218        18,541  

Rexel SA

    255        3,667  

Safran SA

    379        46,052  

Sanofi

    1,362        109,191  

Schneider Electric SE

    655        54,630  

SCOR SE

    204        7,581  

SEB SA

    38        6,639  

Societe BIC SA

    9        835  

Societe Generale SA

    952        40,151  

Sodexo SA

    92        9,199  

Suez

    480        6,225  

Teleperformance

    61        10,778  

Thales SA

    136        17,526  

TOTAL SA

    2,936        179,010  

Ubisoft Entertainment SA (A)

    89        9,768  

Valeo SA

    301        16,458  

Veolia Environnement SA

    599        12,822  

Vinci SA

    586        56,361  

Vivendi SA

    1,182        28,987  

Wendel SA

    53        7,303  
    

 

 

 
       1,788,465  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 8.8%  

1&1 Drillisch AG

    54        3,075  

adidas AG

    226        49,340  

Allianz SE

    535        110,597  

Axel Springer SE

    68        4,919  

BASF SE

    1,114        106,559  

Bayer AG

    1,082        119,217  

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

    377        34,177  

Beiersdorf AG

    106        12,037  

Brenntag AG

    176        9,808  

Commerzbank AG (A)

    1,016        9,742  

Continental AG

    125        28,545  

Covestro AG (C)

    220        19,633  

Daimler AG

    1,122        72,235  

Delivery Hero AG (A) (C)

    97        5,163  

Deutsche Bank AG

    2,467        26,568  

Deutsche Boerse AG

    216        28,794  

Deutsche Lufthansa AG

    303        7,289  

Deutsche Post AG

    1,181        38,575  

Deutsche Telekom AG (A)

    4,029        62,436  

Deutsche Wohnen SE

    461        22,288  

E.ON SE

    2,688        28,735  

Evonik Industries AG

    144        4,932  

Fraport AG Frankfurt Airport Services Worldwide

    52        5,017  

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

    231        23,302  

Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA

    502        40,333  

GEA Group AG

    226        7,625  

Hannover Rueck SE

    65        8,107  

HeidelbergCement AG

    185        15,572  

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

    139        15,461  

HOCHTIEF AG

    28        5,062  

HUGO BOSS AG

    52        4,722  

Infineon Technologies AG

    1,293        32,963  

Innogy SE (C)

    209        8,955  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Germany (continued)  

K+S AG

    158        $   3,902  

KION Group AG

    76        5,471  

LANXESS AG

    66        5,149  

Linde AG

    228        54,423  

MAN SE

    44        4,982  

Merck KGaA

    173        16,894  

METRO AG

    335        4,141  

MTU Aero Engines AG

    49        9,419  

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG

    195        41,229  

OSRAM Licht AG

    121        4,946  

ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE

    230        5,837  

Puma SE

    13        7,606  

RWE AG

    593        13,521  

SAP SE

    1,191        137,625  

Siemens AG

    921        121,773  

Siemens Healthineers AG (A) (C)

    215        8,877  

Symrise AG

    120        10,524  

Telefonica Deutschland Holding AG

    1,061        4,183  

thyssenkrupp AG

    477        11,598  

TUI AG

    531        11,651  

Uniper SE

    233        6,949  

United Internet AG

    146        8,365  

Volkswagen AG

    49        8,097  

Vonovia SE

    594        28,274  

Wirecard AG

    121        19,493  

Zalando SE (A) (C)

    96        5,367  
    

 

 

 
       1,532,079  
    

 

 

 
Hong Kong - 3.4%  

AIA Group, Ltd.

    14,400        125,910  

ASM Pacific Technology, Ltd.

    300        3,793  

Bank of East Asia, Ltd.

    1,039        4,152  

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

    4,000        18,839  

CK Asset Holdings, Ltd.

    3,000        23,822  

CK Hutchison Holdings, Ltd.

    3,500        37,116  

CK Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd.

    500        3,706  

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

    2,000        21,541  

Dairy Farm International Holdings, Ltd.

    500        4,395  

Galaxy Entertainment Group, Ltd.

    3,000        23,229  

Hang Lung Group, Ltd.

    1,000        2,804  

Hang Lung Properties, Ltd.

    3,000        6,187  

Hang Seng Bank, Ltd.

    1,000        25,008  

Henderson Land Development Co., Ltd.

    1,210        6,400  

HK Electric Investments & HK Electric Investments, Ltd. (C)

    4,500        4,302  

HKT Trust & HKT, Ltd.

    2,000        2,564  

Hong Kong & China Gas Co., Ltd.

    8,910        17,058  

Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing, Ltd.

    1,317        39,616  

Hongkong Land Holdings, Ltd.

    1,300        9,295  

Hysan Development Co., Ltd.

    1,000        5,583  

Jardine Matheson Holdings, Ltd.

    300        18,930  

Jardine Strategic Holdings, Ltd.

    200        7,296  

Kerry Properties, Ltd.

    500        2,393  

Li & Fung, Ltd.

    8,000        2,937  

Link REIT

    2,700        24,658  

Melco Resorts & Entertainment, Ltd., ADR

    300        8,400  

MTR Corp., Ltd.

    2,500        13,829  

New World Development Co., Ltd.

    7,114        10,010  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Hong Kong (continued)  

NWS Holdings, Ltd.

    2,000        $   3,462  

PCCW, Ltd.

    7,000        3,944  

Power Assets Holdings, Ltd.

    1,500        10,487  

Shangri-La Asia, Ltd.

    2,000        3,763  

Sino Land Co., Ltd.

    6,059        9,854  

Sun Hung Kai Properties, Ltd.

    2,350        35,464  

Swire Pacific, Ltd., Class A

    500        5,296  

Swire Properties, Ltd.

    1,200        4,436  

Techtronic Industries Co., Ltd.

    1,500        8,364  

WH Group, Ltd. (C)

    12,500        10,181  

Wharf Holdings, Ltd.

    1,300        4,176  

Wharf Real Estate Investment Co., Ltd.

    1,300        9,254  

Wheelock & Co., Ltd.

    1,000        6,966  

Yue Yuen Industrial Holdings, Ltd.

    1,000        2,823  
    

 

 

 
       592,243  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 0.7%  

AerCap Holdings NV (A)

    200        10,830  

AIB Group PLC

    1,173        6,370  

Bank of Ireland Group PLC

    1,083        8,455  

CRH PLC

    955        33,848  

DCC PLC

    113        10,283  

James Hardie Industries PLC, CDI

    517        8,677  

Kerry Group PLC, Class A

    182        19,043  

Paddy Power Betfair PLC

    90        9,985  

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC

    238        9,644  
    

 

 

 
       117,135  
    

 

 

 
Isle of Man - 0.0% (B)  

GVC Holdings PLC

    484        6,713  
    

 

 

 
Israel - 0.5%  

Azrieli Group, Ltd.

    79        3,927  

Bank Hapoalim BM

    1,478        10,020  

Bank Leumi Le-Israel BM

    1,799        10,645  

Bezeq Israeli Telecommunication Corp., Ltd.

    605        682  

Check Point Software Technologies, Ltd. (A)

    150        14,652  

Elbit Systems, Ltd.

    22        2,590  

Frutarom Industries, Ltd.

    35        3,442  

Israel Chemicals, Ltd.

    877        4,018  

Mizrahi Tefahot Bank, Ltd.

    232        4,268  

Nice, Ltd. (A)

    59        6,106  

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., ADR

    1,115        27,117  
    

 

 

 
       87,467  
    

 

 

 
Italy - 2.1%  

Assicurazioni Generali SpA

    1,578        26,481  

Atlantia SpA

    570        16,854  

Davide Campari-Milano SpA

    396        3,258  

Enel SpA

    10,181        56,558  

Eni SpA

    3,193        59,310  

Ferrari NV

    150        20,407  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

    17,162        50,076  

Leonardo SpA

    368        3,638  

Luxottica Group SpA

    197        12,713  

Mediobanca Banca di Credito Finanziario SpA

    537        4,993  

Moncler SpA

    174        7,925  

Pirelli & C SpA (A) (C)

    452        3,775  

Poste Italiane SpA (C)

    562        4,706  

Prysmian SpA

    253        6,302  

Recordati SpA

    139        5,529  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Italy (continued)  

Snam SpA

    3,239        $   13,526  

Telecom Italia SpA

    9,060        5,921  

Telecom Italia SpA (A)

    11,229        8,358  

Terna Rete Elettrica Nazionale SpA

    1,950        10,548  

UniCredit SpA

    2,486        41,503  
    

 

 

 
       362,381  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 23.7%  

Aeon Co., Ltd.

    700        14,984  

AEON Financial Service Co., Ltd.

    200        4,270  

Air Water, Inc.

    200        3,674  

Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.

    200        9,123  

Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

    400        7,573  

Alfresa Holdings Corp.

    200        4,706  

Alps Electric Co., Ltd.

    300        7,712  

Amada Holdings Co., Ltd.

    500        4,810  

ANA Holdings, Inc.

    100        3,675  

Aozora Bank, Ltd.

    100        3,807  

Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.

    300        11,692  

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd.

    400        20,492  

Asahi Kasei Corp.

    1,517        19,292  

Asics Corp.

    200        3,383  

Astellas Pharma, Inc.

    2,200        33,562  

Bandai Namco Holdings, Inc.

    200        8,255  

Bank of Kyoto, Ltd.

    100        4,634  

Benesse Holdings, Inc.

    100        3,550  

Bridgestone Corp.

    700        27,396  

Brother Industries, Ltd.

    300        5,929  

Calbee, Inc.

    100        3,762  

Canon, Inc.

    1,100        36,076  

Casio Computer Co., Ltd.

    300        4,883  

Central Japan Railway Co.

    200        41,476  

Chiba Bank, Ltd.

    1,000        7,072  

Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc.

    600        9,002  

Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    300        15,743  

Chugoku Electric Power Co., Inc.

    400        5,174  

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Holdings, Inc.

    200        7,994  

Concordia Financial Group, Ltd.

    1,000        5,094  

Credit Saison Co., Ltd.

    200        3,150  

CyberAgent, Inc.

    100        6,015  

Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.

    300        6,717  

Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc.

    1,200        21,417  

Daicel Corp.

    100        1,107  

Daifuku Co., Ltd.

    100        4,385  

Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd.

    600        22,962  

Daikin Industries, Ltd.

    300        35,957  

Daito Trust Construction Co., Ltd.

    117        19,032  

Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd.

    600        20,463  

Daiwa House REIT Investment Corp.

    2        4,749  

Daiwa Securities Group, Inc.

    2,000        11,621  

Denso Corp.

    500        24,441  

Dentsu, Inc.

    300        14,226  

Don Quijote Holdings Co., Ltd.

    100        4,805  

East Japan Railway Co.

    400        38,351  

Eisai Co., Ltd.

    300        21,146  

Electric Power Development Co., Ltd.

    100        2,583  

FamilyMart UNY Holdings Co., Ltd.

    100        10,532  

FANUC Corp.

    200        39,751  

Fast Retailing Co., Ltd.

    100        45,983  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.

    1,000        $   7,623  

FUJIFILM Holdings Corp.

    400        15,629  

Fujitsu, Ltd.

    3,000        18,204  

Fukuoka Financial Group, Inc.

    1,000        5,031  

Hakuhodo DY Holdings, Inc.

    400        6,424  

Hamamatsu Photonics KK

    200        8,599  

Hankyu Hanshin Holdings, Inc.

    300        12,072  

Hino Motors, Ltd.

    100        1,069  

Hirose Electric Co., Ltd.

    100        12,401  

Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., Inc.

    100        8,445  

Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.

    200        4,037  

Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.

    100        3,252  

Hitachi High-Technologies Corp.

    100        4,083  

Hitachi Metals, Ltd.

    100        1,039  

Hitachi, Ltd.

    6,000        42,357  

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

    2,000        58,764  

Hoshizaki Corp.

    100        10,125  

Hoya Corp.

    500        28,447  

Hulic Co., Ltd.

    500        5,343  

Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd.

    100        3,568  

IHI Corp.

    100        3,486  

Iida Group Holdings Co., Ltd.

    200        3,860  

Inpex Corp.

    1,300        13,497  

Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings, Ltd.

    400        5,000  

Isuzu Motors, Ltd.

    500        6,645  

ITOCHU Corp.

    1,700        30,825  

J. Front Retailing Co., Ltd.

    400        6,095  

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

    100        3,548  

Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd.

    100        4,688  

Japan Exchange Group, Inc.

    500        9,299  

Japan Post Bank Co., Ltd.

    700        8,156  

Japan Post Holdings Co., Ltd.

    1,800        19,721  

Japan Prime Realty Investment Corp., REIT

    1        3,635  

Japan Real Estate Investment Corp., REIT

    2        10,586  

Japan Retail Fund Investment Corp., REIT

    3        5,408  

Japan Tobacco, Inc.

    1,300        36,341  

JFE Holdings, Inc.

    500        9,466  

JGC Corp.

    300        6,051  

JSR Corp.

    200        3,407  

JTEKT Corp.

    100        1,362  

JXTG Holdings, Inc.

    4,100        28,522  

Kajima Corp.

    1,000        7,750  

Kakaku.com, Inc.

    200        4,520  

Kamigumi Co., Ltd.

    200        4,160  

Kaneka Corp.

    1,000        8,969  

Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc.

    800        11,677  

Kansai Paint Co., Ltd.

    100        2,079  

Kao Corp.

    600        45,793  

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    100        2,949  

KDDI Corp.

    2,100        57,491  

Keihan Holdings Co., Ltd.

    200        7,181  

Keikyu Corp.

    200        3,281  

Keio Corp.

    100        4,841  

Keisei Electric Railway Co., Ltd.

    100        3,437  

Keyence Corp.

    100        56,505  

Kikkoman Corp.

    200        10,098  

Kintetsu Group Holdings Co., Ltd.

    200        8,165  

Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd.

    1,000        26,762  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    100        $   8,644  

Kobe Steel, Ltd.

    500        4,579  

Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    100        6,612  

Komatsu, Ltd.

    1,100        31,475  

Konami Holdings Corp.

    100        5,094  

Konica Minolta, Inc.

    200        1,859  

Kubota Corp.

    1,300        20,466  

Kuraray Co., Ltd.

    300        4,135  

Kurita Water Industries, Ltd.

    100        2,854  

Kyocera Corp.

    400        22,570  

Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd.

    300        6,051  

Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc.

    600        6,698  

Kyushu Railway Co.

    100        3,062  

Lawson, Inc.

    100        6,250  

LINE Corp. (A)

    100        4,168  

Lion Corp.

    300        5,501  

LIXIL Group Corp.

    300        6,005  

M3, Inc.

    300        11,963  

Mabuchi Motor Co., Ltd.

    100        4,760  

Makita Corp.

    300        13,453  

Marubeni Corp.

    1,600        12,213  

Marui Group Co., Ltd.

    300        6,324  

Mazda Motor Corp.

    700        8,599  

McDonald’s Holdings Co. Japan, Ltd.

    100        5,103  

Mebuki Financial Group, Inc.

    300        1,008  

Medipal Holdings Corp.

    100        2,012  

MEIJI Holdings Co., Ltd.

    131        11,051  

Minebea Mitsumi, Inc.

    300        5,078  

MISUMI Group, Inc.

    400        11,670  

Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp.

    1,400        11,727  

Mitsubishi Corp.

    1,600        44,482  

Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

    2,200        29,300  

Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd.

    1,300        22,744  

Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Co., Inc.

    100        2,267  

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    300        10,923  

Mitsubishi Materials Corp.

    100        2,750  

Mitsubishi Motors Corp.

    800        6,380  

Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corp.

    300        5,186  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

    14,200        80,943  

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.

    1,900        31,705  

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.

    300        7,994  

Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd.

    1,000        24,152  

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.

    100        2,410  

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

    27,400        46,155  

MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, Inc.

    500        15,553  

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    200        33,636  

Nabtesco Corp.

    100        3,080  

Nagoya Railroad Co., Ltd.

    200        5,166  

NEC Corp.

    400        10,983  

Nexon Co., Ltd. (A)

    500        7,266  

NGK Insulators, Ltd.

    300        5,346  

NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.

    300        8,563  

NH Foods, Ltd.

    200        8,084  

Nidec Corp.

    250        37,540  

Nikon Corp.

    300        4,777  

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

    100        32,697  

Nippon Building Fund, Inc., REIT

    2        11,543  

Nippon Electric Glass Co., Ltd.

    100        2,782  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

Nippon Express Co., Ltd.

    100        $   7,262  

Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd.

    200        8,617  

Nippon Prologis REIT, Inc. (A)

    2        4,151  

Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corp.

    900        17,685  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    800        36,389  

Nippon Yusen KK

    200        3,972  

Nissan Chemical Industries, Ltd.

    200        9,339  

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

    2,800        27,263  

Nisshin Seifun Group, Inc.

    200        4,236  

Nissin Foods Holdings Co., Ltd.

    100        7,235  

Nitori Holdings Co., Ltd.

    100        15,608  

Nitto Denko Corp.

    200        15,143  

Nomura Holdings, Inc.

    4,000        19,445  

Nomura Real Estate Holdings, Inc.

    200        4,440  

Nomura Real Estate Master Fund, Inc., REIT

    5        7,059  

Nomura Research Institute, Ltd.

    100        4,850  

NSK, Ltd.

    600        6,194  

NTT Data Corp.

    900        10,373  

NTT DOCOMO, Inc.

    1,600        40,789  

Obayashi Corp.

    800        8,331  

OBIC Co., Ltd.

    100        8,283  

Odakyu Electric Railway Co., Ltd.

    300        6,444  

OJI Holdings Corp.

    1,000        6,205  

Olympus Corp.

    300        11,245  

Omron Corp.

    200        9,339  

Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    500        11,728  

Oracle Corp.

    100        8,174  

Oriental Land Co., Ltd.

    200        21,000  

ORIX Corp.

    1,500        23,737  

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd.

    400        8,283  

Otsuka Corp.

    200        7,849  

Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd.

    500        24,224  

Panasonic Corp.

    2,500        33,724  

Park24 Co., Ltd.

    200        5,446  

Persol Holdings Co., Ltd.

    200        4,464  

Pola Orbis Holdings, Inc.

    100        4,403  

Rakuten, Inc.

    1,200        8,123  

Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.

    1,200        33,231  

Renesas Electronics Corp. (A)

    1,100        10,790  

Resona Holdings, Inc.

    2,600        13,916  

Ricoh Co., Ltd.

    800        7,341  

Rinnai Corp.

    100        8,824  

Rohm Co., Ltd.

    100        8,400  

Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd.

    21        7,397  

Sankyo Co., Ltd.

    100        3,915  

Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    300        5,232  

SBI Holdings, Inc.

    300        7,733  

Secom Co., Ltd.

    300        23,051  

Sega Sammy Holdings, Inc.

    300        5,143  

Seibu Holdings, Inc.

    200        3,374  

Seiko Epson Corp.

    300        5,219  

Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.

    300        5,116  

Sekisui House, Ltd.

    800        14,163  

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.

    900        39,271  

SG Holdings Co., Ltd.

    200        4,390  

Sharp Corp.

    300        7,316  

Shimadzu Corp.

    300        9,077  

Shimano, Inc.

    119        17,477  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

Shimizu Corp.

    400        $   4,151  

Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.

    500        44,587  

Shinsei Bank, Ltd.

    200        3,082  

Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

    300        15,421  

Shiseido Co., Ltd.

    500        39,733  

Shizuoka Bank, Ltd.

    1,000        9,041  

Showa Shell Sekiyu KK

    300        4,479  

SMC Corp.

    100        36,698  

SoftBank Group Corp.

    1,000        72,014  

Sohgo Security Services Co., Ltd.

    100        4,715  

Sompo Holdings, Inc.

    400        16,186  

Sony Corp.

    1,500        76,738  

Sony Financial Holdings, Inc.

    200        3,822  

Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.

    100        3,414  

Start Today Co., Ltd.

    200        7,253  

Subaru Corp.

    600        17,477  

Sumco Corp.

    200        4,041  

Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.

    1,397        7,924  

Sumitomo Corp.

    1,200        19,726  

Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.

    200        4,236  

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

    1,000        14,903  

Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    100        3,378  

Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd.

    300        11,484  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    1,600        62,228  

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings, Inc.

    400        15,871  

Sumitomo Realty & Development Co., Ltd.

    400        14,773  

Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.

    200        3,179  

Sundrug Co., Ltd.

    100        4,055  

Suntory Beverage & Food, Ltd.

    200        8,544  

Suruga Bank, Ltd.

    100        895  

Suzuken Co., Ltd.

    100        4,236  

Suzuki Motor Corp.

    400        22,104  

Sysmex Corp.

    200        18,679  

T&D Holdings, Inc.

    600        9,020  

Taiheiyo Cement Corp.

    100        3,292  

Taisei Corp.

    300        16,556  

Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings Co., Ltd.

    100        11,715  

Takashimaya Co., Ltd.

    1,000        8,563  

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    800        33,802  

TDK Corp.

    200        20,449  

Teijin, Ltd.

    100        1,835  

Terumo Corp.

    400        22,942  

THK Co., Ltd.

    100        2,868  

Tobu Railway Co., Ltd.

    200        6,124  

Toho Co., Ltd.

    100        3,355  

Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc.

    400        4,888  

Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.

    800        37,523  

Tokyo Century Corp.

    100        5,672  

Tokyo Electric Power Co. Holdings, Inc. (A)

    1,500        6,991  

Tokyo Electron, Ltd.

    200        34,359  

Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd.

    400        10,624  

Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd.

    100        1,374  

Tokyu Corp.

    400        6,893  

Tokyu Fudosan Holdings Corp.

    800        5,651  

Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.

    1,000        7,840  

Toray Industries, Inc.

    1,600        12,631  

Toshiba Corp. (A)

    8,000        24,062  

Tosoh Corp.

    200        3,102  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan (continued)  

TOTO, Ltd.

    200        $   9,285  

Toyo Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.

    100        3,563  

Toyota Industries Corp.

    200        11,218  

Toyota Motor Corp.

    2,750        178,092  

Toyota Tsusho Corp.

    200        6,702  

Trend Micro, Inc.

    100        5,708  

Tsuruha Holdings, Inc.

    100        12,546  

Unicharm Corp.

    500        15,052  

United Urban Investment Corp., REIT

    4        6,211  

USS Co., Ltd.

    100        1,904  

West Japan Railway Co.

    200        14,748  

Yahoo Japan Corp.

    2,200        7,312  

Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.

    100        6,684  

Yamada Denki Co., Ltd.

    1,000        4,977  

Yamaha Corp.

    200        10,405  

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

    400        10,066  

Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd.

    300        8,844  

Yamazaki Baking Co., Ltd.

    200        5,239  

Yaskawa Electric Corp.

    200        7,072  

Yokogawa Electric Corp.

    300        5,343  

Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.

    200        4,160  
    

 

 

 
       4,113,104  
    

 

 

 
Jersey, Channel Islands - 0.2%  

Ferguson PLC

    270        21,915  

Randgold Resources, Ltd.

    105        8,065  
    

 

 

 
       29,980  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 0.4%  

ArcelorMittal

    759        22,256  

Eurofins Scientific SE

    15        8,345  

Millicom International Cellular SA, SDR

    90        5,316  

RTL Group SA

    68        4,614  

SES SA

    489        8,960  

Tenaris SA

    556        10,204  
    

 

 

 
       59,695  
    

 

 

 
Macau - 0.2%  

MGM China Holdings, Ltd.

    1,200        2,784  

Sands China, Ltd.

    3,200        17,110  

Wynn Macau, Ltd.

    2,000        6,437  
    

 

 

 
       26,331  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.0% (B)  

Fresnillo PLC

    276        4,165  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 4.7%  

ABN AMRO Group NV, CVA (C)

    419        10,873  

Akzo Nobel NV

    310        26,543  

ASML Holding NV

    494        97,899  

EXOR NV

    121        8,153  

Heineken Holding NV

    128        12,272  

Heineken NV

    330        33,150  

ING Groep NV

    4,520        65,073  

Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize NV

    1,457        34,889  

Koninklijke DSM NV

    235        23,634  

Koninklijke KPN NV

    3,870        10,530  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    1,089        46,323  

Koninklijke Vopak NV

    78        3,604  

NN Group NV

    346        14,077  

NXP Semiconductors NV (A)

    431        47,095  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Netherlands (continued)  

QIAGEN NV (A)

    263        $   9,583  

Randstad NV

    85        5,005  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A

    5,536        192,078  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B

    4,494        160,937  

Wolters Kluwer NV

    357        20,120  
    

 

 

 
       821,838  
    

 

 

 
New Zealand - 0.2%  

a2 Milk Co., Ltd. (A)

    781        6,062  

Auckland International Airport, Ltd.

    897        4,119  

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp., Ltd.

    821        8,280  

Fletcher Building, Ltd.

    1,208        5,686  

Meridian Energy, Ltd.

    2,326        4,915  

Ryman Healthcare, Ltd.

    466        3,778  

Spark New Zealand, Ltd.

    1,865        4,712  
    

 

 

 
       37,552  
    

 

 

 
Norway - 0.7%  

AKER BP ASA

    123        4,543  

DNB ASA

    1,266        24,762  

Equinor ASA

    1,434        38,102  

Gjensidige Forsikring ASA

    344        5,643  

Marine Harvest ASA

    433        8,624  

Norsk Hydro ASA

    1,602        9,597  

Orkla ASA

    800        7,013  

Schibsted ASA, B Shares

    119        3,361  

Telenor ASA

    862        17,691  

Yara International ASA

    203        8,425  
    

 

 

 
       127,761  
    

 

 

 
Portugal - 0.2%  

EDP - Energias de Portugal SA

    2,762        10,967  

Galp Energia SGPS SA

    492        9,385  

Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA

    306        4,420  
    

 

 

 
       24,772  
    

 

 

 
Republic of South Africa - 0.1%  

Investec PLC

    598        4,246  

Mediclinic International PLC

    536        3,725  

Mondi PLC

    426        11,531  

Old Mutual, Ltd. (A)

    932        1,850  
    

 

 

 
       21,352  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 1.3%  

Ascendas Real Estate Investment Trust

    2,200        4,263  

CapitaLand Commercial Trust, REIT

    1,963        2,392  

CapitaLand Mall Trust, REIT

    2,300        3,494  

CapitaLand, Ltd.

    3,800        8,813  

City Developments, Ltd.

    700        5,615  

ComfortDelGro Corp., Ltd.

    2,900        5,002  

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

    2,200        42,967  

Genting Singapore, Ltd.

    7,700        6,895  

Jardine Cycle & Carriage, Ltd.

    300        7,006  

Keppel Corp., Ltd.

    2,000        10,495  

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp., Ltd.

    3,900        33,318  

SATS, Ltd.

    800        2,936  

Singapore Airlines, Ltd.

    800        6,277  

Singapore Exchange, Ltd.

    1,000        5,262  

Singapore Press Holdings, Ltd.

    1,800        3,435  

Singapore Technologies Engineering, Ltd.

    1,900        4,588  

Singapore Telecommunications, Ltd.

    9,700        21,927  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Singapore (continued)  

Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust

    1,200        $   1,524  

United Overseas Bank, Ltd.

    1,500        29,460  

UOL Group, Ltd.

    600        3,356  

Venture Corp., Ltd.

    300        3,928  

Wilmar International, Ltd.

    1,900        4,267  
    

 

 

 
       217,220  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 3.0%  

ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA

    260        10,536  

Aena SME SA (C)

    81        14,709  

Amadeus IT Group SA

    547        43,182  

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA

    8,224        58,335  

Banco de Sabadell SA

    7,345        12,313  

Banco Santander SA

    19,664        105,449  

Bankia SA

    1,931        7,232  

Bankinter SA

    805        7,842  

CaixaBank SA

    4,698        20,332  

Enagas SA

    286        8,363  

Endesa SA

    367        8,098  

Ferrovial SA

    451        9,256  

Gas Natural SDG SA

    437        11,574  

Grifols SA

    342        10,296  

Iberdrola SA

    7,264        56,191  

Industria de Diseno Textil SA

    1,240        42,371  

Mapfre SA

    1,487        4,489  

Red Electrica Corp. SA

    431        8,778  

Repsol SA

    1,508        29,524  

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy SA

    301        4,044  

Telefonica SA

    5,719        48,614  
    

 

 

 
       521,528  
    

 

 

 
Supranational - 0.2%  

Unibail-Rodamco SE (A)

    779        8,452  

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield

    123        27,083  
    

 

 

 
       35,535  
    

 

 

 
Sweden - 2.5%  

Alfa Laval AB

    368        8,735  

Assa Abloy AB, B Shares

    1,145        24,404  

Atlas Copco AB, A Shares

    786        22,886  

Atlas Copco AB, B Shares

    534        13,990  

Boliden AB

    269        8,728  

Electrolux AB, Series B

    247        5,626  

Essity AB, Class B

    740        18,275  

Hennes & Mauritz AB, B Shares

    1,067        15,904  

Hexagon AB, B Shares

    329        18,348  

Husqvarna AB, Class B

    425        4,034  

ICA Gruppen AB

    83        2,546  

Industrivarden AB, Class C

    330        6,400  

Investor AB, B Shares

    521        21,226  

Kinnevik AB, B Shares

    233        7,984  

L E Lundbergforetagen AB, B Shares

    90        2,765  

Lundin Petroleum AB

    294        9,378  

Nordea Bank AB

    3,458        33,311  

Sandvik AB

    1,452        25,776  

Securitas AB, Class B

    521        8,577  

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB, Class A

    1,871        17,789  

Skanska AB, Class B

    331        6,016  

SKF AB, Class B

    477        8,878  

Svenska Handelsbanken AB, A Shares

    1,751        19,463  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Sweden (continued)  

Swedbank AB, Class A

    1,197        $   25,632  

Swedish Match AB

    224        11,096  

Tele2 AB, Class B

    437        5,138  

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, B Shares

    3,509        27,134  

Telia Co. AB

    3,539        16,184  

Volvo AB, Class B

    1,784        28,522  
    

 

 

 
       424,745  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 8.2%  

ABB, Ltd.

    2,266        49,677  

Adecco Group AG

    189        11,214  

Baloise Holding AG

    61        8,889  

Barry Callebaut AG

    2        3,595  

Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Spruengli AG

    2        12,986  

Cie Financiere Richemont SA

    608        51,646  

Clariant AG (A)

    141        3,392  

Coca-Cola HBC AG (A)

    252        8,418  

Credit Suisse Group AG (A)

    2,980        44,987  

Dufry AG (A)

    33        4,212  

EMS-Chemie Holding AG

    8        5,142  

Geberit AG

    43        18,493  

Givaudan SA

    12        27,289  

Glencore PLC (A)

    13,965        66,718  

Julius Baer Group, Ltd. (A)

    281        16,537  

Keuhne & Nagel International AG

    55        8,286  

LafargeHolcim, Ltd. (A)

    607        29,654  

Lonza Group AG (A)

    85        22,617  

Nestle SA

    3,734        289,957  

Novartis AG

    2,673        203,194  

Pargesa Holding SA

    52        4,416  

Partners Group Holding AG

    19        13,958  

Roche Holding AG

    844        187,967  

Schindler Holding AG

    71        15,231  

SGS SA

    6        16,007  

Sika AG

    180        24,974  

Sonova Holding AG

    56        10,057  

STMicroelectronics NV

    791        17,652  

Straumann Holding AG

    12        9,149  

Swatch Group AG

    78        23,490  

Swiss Life Holding AG (A)

    43        14,980  

Swiss Prime Site AG (A)

    64        5,891  

Swiss Re AG

    381        32,972  

Swisscom AG

    33        14,769  

Temenos AG (A)

    65        9,846  

UBS Group AG (A)

    4,678        72,393  

Vifor Pharma AG

    59        9,452  

Zurich Insurance Group AG

    190        56,426  
    

 

 

 
       1,426,533  
    

 

 

 
United Arab Emirates - 0.0% (B)  

NMC Health PLC

    113        5,342  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 15.2%  

3i Group PLC

    1,068        12,694  

Admiral Group PLC

    160        4,028  

Anglo American PLC

    1,310        29,301  

Ashtead Group PLC

    602        18,059  

Associated British Foods PLC

    459        16,586  

AstraZeneca PLC

    1,520        105,376  

Auto Trader Group PLC (C)

    1,002        5,632  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United Kingdom (continued)  

Aviva PLC

    4,932        $   32,805  

Babcock International Group PLC

    278        3,000  

BAE Systems PLC

    3,839        32,770  

Barclays PLC

    19,878        49,582  

Barratt Developments PLC

    847        5,761  

Berkeley Group Holdings PLC

    91        4,546  

BP PLC

    23,921        182,568  

British American Tobacco PLC

    2,751        139,053  

British Land Co. PLC, REIT

    1,148        10,184  

BT Group PLC

    10,356        29,767  

Bunzl PLC

    374        11,328  

Burberry Group PLC

    552        15,736  

Centrica PLC

    5,760        11,984  

CNH Industrial NV

    1,072        11,387  

Coca-Cola European Partners PLC

    247        10,032  

Compass Group PLC

    1,886        40,285  

ConvaTec Group PLC (C)

    1,700        4,765  

Croda International PLC

    153        9,696  

Diageo PLC

    2,933        105,364  

Direct Line Insurance Group PLC

    1,910        8,644  

easyJet PLC

    170        3,754  

Experian PLC

    989        24,467  

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (A)

    1,339        25,541  

G4S PLC

    2,134        7,539  

GlaxoSmithKline PLC

    5,947        120,067  

Hammerson PLC, REIT

    1,118        7,711  

Hargreaves Lansdown PLC

    344        8,950  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    24,119        226,223  

Imperial Brands PLC

    1,199        44,655  

Informa PLC

    1,536        16,927  

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC

    224        13,953  

International Consolidated Airlines Group SA

    562        4,937  

Intertek Group PLC

    195        14,710  

ITV PLC

    4,184        9,608  

J Sainsbury PLC

    1,923        8,152  

John Wood Group PLC

    807        6,686  

Johnson Matthey PLC

    217        10,364  

Kingfisher PLC

    2,221        8,706  

Land Securities Group PLC, REIT

    850        10,734  

Legal & General Group PLC

    7,356        25,824  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    88,098        73,307  

London Stock Exchange Group PLC

    357        21,065  

Marks & Spencer Group PLC

    1,496        5,826  

Meggitt PLC

    1,318        8,581  

Melrose Industries PLC

    5,487        15,403  

Merlin Entertainments PLC (C)

    959        4,894  

Micro Focus International PLC

    493        8,611  

National Grid PLC

    3,928        43,462  

Next PLC

    149        11,897  

Pearson PLC

    876        10,232  

Persimmon PLC

    415        13,873  

Prudential PLC

    3,117        71,351  

Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC

    827        68,095  

RELX NV

    1,225        26,129  

RELX PLC

    1,127        24,132  

Rio Tinto PLC

    1,467        81,334  

Rio Tinto, Ltd.

    525        32,419  

Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC (A)

    2,095        27,323  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United Kingdom (continued)  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC (A)

    5,637        $   19,052  

Royal Mail PLC

    1,327        8,851  

RSA Insurance Group PLC

    1,466        13,145  

Sage Group PLC

    1,227        10,179  

Schroders PLC

    122        5,085  

Segro PLC, REIT

    1,356        11,979  

Severn Trent PLC

    328        8,569  

Sky PLC

    1,181        22,779  

Smith & Nephew PLC

    859        15,849  

Smiths Group PLC

    442        9,905  

SSE PLC

    1,162        20,780  

St. James’s Place PLC

    653        9,889  

Standard Chartered PLC

    3,454        31,572  

Standard Life Aberdeen PLC

    3,306        14,211  

Taylor Wimpey PLC

    3,902        9,213  

Tesco PLC

    11,933        40,427  

Travis Perkins PLC

    242        4,543  

Unilever NV, CVA

    1,851        103,292  

Unilever PLC

    1,473        81,492  

United Utilities Group PLC

    629        6,336  

Vodafone Group PLC

    32,331        78,434  

Weir Group PLC

    293        7,734  

Whitbread PLC

    180        9,405  

WM Morrison Supermarkets PLC

    2,970        9,878  

WPP PLC

    1,490        23,459  
    

 

 

 
       2,634,433  
    

 

 

 
United States - 0.4%             

Carnival PLC

    210        12,048  

Shire PLC

    1,107        62,310  
    

 

 

 
       74,358  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $17,401,669)

       16,991,845  
    

 

 

 
PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.6%             
Germany - 0.6%             

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG,
5.82% (D)

    103        8,215  
     Shares      Value  
PREFERRED STOCKS (continued)             
Germany (continued)             

FUCHS PETROLUB SE,
2.11% (D)

    93        $   4,588  

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA,
1.65% (D)

    204        26,086  

Porsche Automobil Holding SE,
3.13% (D)

    183        11,660  

Sartorius AG,
0.37% (D)

    37        5,535  

Schaeffler AG,
4.88% (D)

    176        2,292  

Volkswagen AG,
2.71% (D)

    211        35,044  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stocks
(Cost $104,502)

       93,420  
    

 

 

 
RIGHTS - 0.0% (B)             
Italy - 0.0% (B)             

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA, (A) (E)
Exercise Price EUR 2.74,
Expiration Date 07/17/2018

    17,162        0  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 0.0% (B)             

ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA, (A)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 07/11/2018

    260        268  

Repsol SA, (A)
Exercise Price $0,
Expiration Date 07/06/2018

    1,508        856  
    

 

 

 
       1,124  
    

 

 

 

Total Rights
(Cost $1,133)

       1,124  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $17,507,304)

       17,086,389  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 1.6%

       281,283  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  17,367,672  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

MSCI EAFE Mini Index

     Long        6        09/21/2018      $   590,234      $   586,620      $   —      $   (3,614

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY:

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Banks

    11.3      $   1,935,469  

Pharmaceuticals

    7.3          1,247,748  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

    6.1          1,034,694  

Insurance

    5.3          898,263  

Chemicals

    3.9          667,245  

Automobiles

    3.4          586,050  

Metals & Mining

    3.2          539,141  

Food Products

    2.9          499,656  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY (continued):

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Machinery

    2.5 %        $   433,298  

Capital Markets

    2.4          416,181  

Beverages

    2.4          405,585  

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods

    2.2          377,978  

Personal Products

    2.2          367,762  

Diversified Telecommunication Services

    2.1          356,482  

Real Estate Management & Development

    2.0          348,939  

Food & Staples Retailing

    1.7          295,560  

Electric Utilities

    1.7          295,501  

Software

    1.6          279,653  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components

    1.6          272,384  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts

    1.6          267,226  

Wireless Telecommunication Services

    1.5          262,257  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

    1.5          259,195  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies

    1.5          257,333  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment

    1.5          256,992  

Industrial Conglomerates

    1.5          253,877  

Electrical Equipment

    1.5          253,444  

Aerospace & Defense

    1.4          240,164  

Tobacco

    1.4          231,145  

Trading Companies & Distributors

    1.3          225,803  

Household Durables

    1.3          217,457  

Road & Rail

    1.2          207,798  

Professional Services

    1.2          203,389  

Auto Components

    1.2          202,883  

Media

    1.2          198,721  

Multi-Utilities

    1.0          172,739  

IT Services

    0.9          159,310  

Biotechnology

    0.9          158,249  

Construction & Engineering

    0.9          154,159  

Household Products

    0.9          148,470  

Specialty Retail

    0.8          139,665  

Diversified Financial Services

    0.8          131,179  

Building Products

    0.8          129,523  

Construction Materials

    0.6          109,865  

Health Care Providers & Services

    0.6          108,283  

Transportation Infrastructure

    0.6          102,858  

Commercial Services & Supplies

    0.6          95,155  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

    0.5          83,036  

Air Freight & Logistics

    0.4          65,433  

Communications Equipment

    0.4          64,009  

Gas Utilities

    0.4          59,443  

Paper & Forest Products

    0.3          56,387  

Multiline Retail

    0.3          55,907  

Leisure Products

    0.3          45,195  

Life Sciences Tools & Services

    0.2          40,545  

Internet Software & Services

    0.2          32,337  

Airlines

    0.2          29,480  

Marine

    0.2          29,383  

Containers & Packaging

    0.1          23,582  

Energy Equipment & Services

    0.1          16,890  

Internet & Direct Marketing Retail

    0.1          15,376  

Water Utilities

    0.1          14,905  

Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers

    0.1          14,447  

Health Care Technology

    0.1          11,963  

Consumer Finance

    0.0 (B)          7,420  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY (continued):

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Distributors

    0.0 % (B)        $ 7,006  

Internet & Catalog Retail

    0.0 (B)          5,367  

Diversified Consumer Services

    0.0 (B)          3,550  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investments, at Value

    100.0          17,086,389  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments

    100.0 %       $   17,086,389  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (F)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 108,094     $ 16,883,751     $     $ 16,991,845  

Preferred Stocks

          93,420             93,420  

Rights

          1,124             1,124  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 108,094     $ 16,978,295     $     $ 17,086,389  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (G)

  $ (3,614   $     $     $ (3,614
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (3,614   $     $     $ (3,614
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(C)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $126,766, representing 0.7% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(E)    Security deemed worthless.
(F)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(G)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATION:

 

EUR    Euro

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt
CDI    CHESS Depositary Interests
CVA    Commanditaire Vennootschap op Aandelen (Dutch Certificate)
EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
REIT    Real Estate Investment Trust
SDR    Swedish Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $17,507,304)

  $ 17,086,389  

Cash

    474,337  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    29,700  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $75,928)

    75,980  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    6,471  

Due from investment manager

    21,546  

Investments sold

    1,196  

Dividends

    33,321  

Tax reclaims

    7,905  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    3,697  

Prepaid expenses

    42  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    17,740,584  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    342,164  

Investments purchased

    3,245  

Distribution and service fees

    3,339  

Transfer agent costs

    31  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    13  

Audit and tax fees

    8,932  

Custody fees

    14,940  

Legal fees

    210  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    6  

Other

    32  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    372,912  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   17,367,672  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 16,050  

Additional paid-in capital

    17,478,995  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    291,592  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    6,036  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (420,915

Futures contracts

    (3,614

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (472
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 17,367,672  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 276,374  

Service Class

    17,091,298  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    25,512  

Service Class

    1,579,468  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10.83  

Service Class

    10.82  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 288,327  

Interest income

    105  

Non-cash dividend income

    16,859  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (33,374
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    271,917  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    7,054  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    15,948  

Transfer agency costs

 

Initial Class

    1  

Service Class

    103  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    183  

Audit and tax fees

    8,941  

Custody fees

    95,385  

Legal fees

    3,231  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    2,646  

Other

    845  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    134,337  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (592

Service Class

    (106,253

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees:

 

Initial Class

    37  

Service Class

    27  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    27,556  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    244,361  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    (5,167

Futures contracts

    (2,211

Foreign currency transactions

    (13,270
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    (20,648
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (797,356

Futures contracts

    (4,315

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (789
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (802,460
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (823,108
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (578,747
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the periods ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited) (A)
    December 31, 2017 (B)  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 244,361     $ 40,907  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (20,648     32,864  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (802,460     377,459  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (578,747     451,230  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    292,113        

Service Class

    9,968,908       8,486,988  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    10,261,021       8,486,988  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (9,249      

Service Class

    (757,090     (486,481
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (766,339     (486,481
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    9,494,682       8,000,507  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    8,915,935       8,451,737  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period

    8,451,737        
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period

  $   17,367,672     $   8,451,737  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 291,592     $ 47,231  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    26,350        

Service Class

    890,620       804,293  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    916,970       804,293  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (838      

Service Class

    (68,831     (46,614
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (69,669     (46,614
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    25,512        

Service Class

    821,789       757,679  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    847,301       757,679  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)    Initial Class commenced operations on January 12, 2018.
(B)    Service Class commenced operations on May 1, 2017

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited) (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $   11.61  
 

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B)

    0.19  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.97
 

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.78
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.83  
 

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (6.72 )%(D) 
 

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period (000’s)

  $ 277  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.85 %(E) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.18 %(E) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    3.79 %(E) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    1 %(D) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on January 12, 2018.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the periods indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.15     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B)

    0.21       0.11  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.54     1.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.33     1.15  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.82     $ 11.15  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (2.96 )%(D)      11.50 %(D) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period (000’s)

  $   17,091     $   8,452  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    2.10 %(E)      5.33 %(E) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.43 %(E)      0.43 %(E) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    3.81 %(E)      1.49 %(E) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    1 %(D)      6 %(D) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on May 1, 2017.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica International Equity Index VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Rights: Rights may be priced intrinsically using a model that incorporates the subscription or strike price, the daily market price for the underlying security, and a subscription ratio. If the inputs are unavailable, or if the subscription or strike price is higher than the market price, then the rights are priced at zero. Rights are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified in the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $   —     $   —     $   (3,614    $               —      $               —      $   (3,614

Total

  $     $     $ (3,614    $      $      $ (3,614
                                                    

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ (2,211    $      $      $ (2,211

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (2,211    $               —      $               —      $   (2,211
                                                    
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $   —     $   —     $   (4,315    $               —      $               —      $   (4,315

Total

  $     $     $ (4,315    $      $      $ (4,315
                                                    

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
214  

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Foreign investment risk: Investing in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involves additional risk. Foreign countries in which the Fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile than U.S. markets. The value of the Fund’s investments may decline because of factors affecting a particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, political or financial instability or other adverse economic or political developments. Lack of information and weaker accounting standards also may affect the value of these securities.

Index tracking: While an index fund seeks to track the performance of its stated index (i.e. achieve a high degree of correlation with the index), an index fund’s return may not match the return of the index. An index fund incurs a number of operating expenses not applicable to the index, and incurs costs in buying and selling securities. In addition, an index fund may not be fully invested at times, generally as a result of cash flows or reserves of cash held by an index fund to meet redemptions. The sub-adviser may attempt to replicate the index return by investing in fewer than all of the securities of the index, or in some securities not included in the index, potentially increasing the risk of divergence between an index fund’s return and that of its stated index.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.11% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.18      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.43        May 1, 2019  

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

     Amounts Available         
      2017      2018      Total  

Initial Class

   $      $ 555      $ 555  

Service Class

       134,491          106,253          240,744  

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government         Long-Term    U.S. Government
$  9,821,187   $  —      $  112,089    $  —

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  17,507,304   $  573,950   $  (998,479)   $  (424,529)

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica International Equity Index VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio since its inception on May 1, 2017 in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

investment company business and investor needs. The Trustees noted that the objective of the Portfolio, as an index fund, is to track, and not necessarily exceed, its benchmark index, and that unlike the Portfolio, the index is not subject to any expenses or transaction costs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe since its inception. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark since its inception.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica International Equity Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
   

Ending

Account Value
June 30, 2018

   

Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -

June 30, 2018

   

Ending

Account Value
June 30, 2018

    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
   

Annualized

Expense Ratio

 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,028.50     $   3.82     $   1,021.00     $   3.81       0.76

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,026.90       5.08       1,019.80       5.06       1.01  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     57.4

U.S. Government Obligations

     13.5  

Corporate Debt Securities

     13.1  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     10.1  

Asset-Backed Securities

     2.8  

Repurchase Agreement

     2.5  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     1.7  

Securities Lending Collateral

     1.6  

Master Limited Partnership

     0.6  

Loan Assignments

     0.2  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (3.5

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 57.4%  
Aerospace & Defense - 3.2%  

Boeing Co.

    59,085        $  19,823,609  

General Dynamics Corp.

    47,830        8,915,990  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    4,606        1,417,266  
    

 

 

 
       30,156,865  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.5%  

United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B

    46,692        4,960,091  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.3%  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    62,738        3,108,040  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.8%  

General Motors Co.

    199,604        7,864,398  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 2.4%  

Bank of America Corp.

    226,005        6,371,081  

US Bancorp

    331,449        16,579,079  
    

 

 

 
       22,950,160  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.3%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    25,087        2,324,311  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.9%  

CME Group, Inc.

    85,871        14,075,974  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    9,051        1,996,379  

Morgan Stanley

    41,916        1,986,819  

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.

    176,773        9,681,857  
    

 

 

 
       27,741,029  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 1.7%  

LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A

    147,588        16,212,542  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.5%  

American Express Co.

    48,087        4,712,526  

Synchrony Financial

    282,855        9,441,700  
    

 

 

 
       14,154,226  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.4%  

Corning, Inc.

    120,696        3,320,347  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 0.9%  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    39,537        4,262,879  

MGM Growth Properties LLC, Class A (A)

    78,140        2,380,145  

Outfront Media, Inc.

    112,767        2,193,318  
    

 

 

 
       8,836,342  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 3.0%  

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    64,759        13,533,336  

Kroger Co.

    199,715        5,681,892  

Sysco Corp.

    141,505        9,663,376  
    

 

 

 
       28,878,604  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.5%  

Hershey Co.

    46,303        4,308,957  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 2.1%  

Abbott Laboratories

    149,686        9,129,349  

Medtronic PLC

    130,699        11,189,141  
    

 

 

 
       20,318,490  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.7%  

Aetna, Inc.

    37,067        6,801,794  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 2.3%  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    24,221        1,917,334  

McDonald’s Corp.

    72,707        11,392,460  

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd. (B)

    56,460        2,667,735  

Six Flags Entertainment Corp. (A)

    50,796          3,558,260  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure (continued)  

Starbucks Corp.

    49,297        $   2,408,158  
    

 

 

 
       21,943,947  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.3%  

Clorox Co.

    20,835        2,817,934  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.2%  

3M Co.

    20,046        3,943,449  

Honeywell International, Inc.

    53,921        7,767,320  
    

 

 

 
       11,710,769  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.5%  

Progressive Corp.

    77,555        4,587,378  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.7%  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (B)

    3,144        6,373,171  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 2.2%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (B)

    18,778        20,949,676  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 3.8%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    64,838        10,606,848  

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.

    17,469        2,343,292  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    117,732        23,136,693  
    

 

 

 
       36,086,833  
    

 

 

 
Leisure Products - 0.5%  

Hasbro, Inc.

    50,101        4,624,823  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 1.2%  

Deere & Co.

    31,962        4,468,288  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    19,035        2,966,605  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    31,471        4,179,663  
    

 

 

 
       11,614,556  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.4%  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    333,447        10,940,396  

Madison Square Garden Co., Class A (B)

    8,566        2,657,088  
    

 

 

 
       13,597,484  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.0%  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    106,934        7,832,915  

Suncor Energy, Inc.

    276,661        11,256,456  
    

 

 

 
       19,089,371  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 0.7%  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    43,278        6,175,338  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 3.5%  

Allergan PLC

    62,130        10,358,313  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    85,340        4,722,716  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    84,188        7,183,762  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    185,716        11,272,961  
    

 

 

 
       33,537,752  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.8%  

CBRE Group, Inc., Class A (B)

    164,874        7,871,085  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 1.2%  

CSX Corp.

    178,596        11,390,853  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 2.0%  

Intel Corp.

    245,664        12,211,957  

Lam Research Corp.

    37,834        6,539,607  
    

 

 

 
       18,751,564  
    

 

 

 
Software - 5.6%  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    39,921          3,046,771  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (B)

    69,757        17,007,454  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Software (continued)  

Microsoft Corp.

    306,881        $   30,261,535  

salesforce.com, Inc. (B)

    23,259        3,172,528  
    

 

 

 
       53,488,288  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.7%  

Home Depot, Inc.

    80,491        15,703,794  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 1.8%  

Apple, Inc.

    89,669        16,598,629  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 1.1%  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    131,935        10,512,581  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 1.7%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    278,168        15,797,161  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $424,436,187)

 

     545,159,183  
    

 

 

 
MASTER LIMITED PARTNERSHIP - 0.6%  
Capital Markets - 0.6%  

Blackstone Group, LP

    169,310        5,446,703  
    

 

 

 

Total Master Limited Partnership
(Cost $4,828,539)

 

     5,446,703  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 2.8%  

AmeriCredit Automobile Receivables Trust
Series 2015-2, Class D,
3.00%, 06/08/2021

    $  214,000        213,873  

Series 2015-3, Class D,

    

3.34%, 08/08/2021

    1,244,000        1,247,600  

Series 2016-1, Class D,

    

3.59%, 02/08/2022

    407,000        409,206  

Series 2016-2, Class D,

    

3.65%, 05/09/2022

    293,000        295,293  

Applebee’s Funding LLC / IHOP Funding LLC
Series 2014-1, Class A2,
4.28%, 09/05/2044 (C)

    1,512,570        1,500,254  

Atrium IX
Series 9A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.24%, 3.56% (D), 05/28/2030 (C)

    521,400        522,857  

Bain Capital Credit CLO
Series 2018-1A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.96%, 3.32% (D), 04/23/2031 (C)

    990,000        986,167  

Bean Creek CLO, Ltd.
Series 2015-1A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.38% (D), 04/20/2031 (C)

    739,000        737,351  

Carlyle Global Market Strategies CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-2RA, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.05%, 3.03% (D), 05/15/2031 (C)

    1,098,000        1,095,513  

Carlyle US CLO, Ltd.
Series 2018-1A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.08% (D), 04/20/2031 (C)

    1,412,000        1,406,846  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

CIFC Funding, Ltd.
Series 2013-4A, Class A1RR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.06%, 3.15% (D), 04/27/2031 (C)

    $   437,328        $   435,921  

Series 2018-1A, Class A,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.00%,

3.16% (D),  04/18/2031 (C)

    495,000        491,925  

Series 2018-2A, Class A1,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.04%,

3.09% (D),  04/20/2031 (C)

    865,000        859,794  

Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust
Series 2018-2A, Class A,
3.47%, 05/17/2027 (C)

    474,000        475,030  

Series 2018-2A, Class B,

    

3.94%, 07/15/2027 (C)

    314,000        314,871  

Series 2018-2A, Class C,

    

4.16%, 09/15/2027 (C)

    250,000        251,424  

Drive Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2017-1, Class D,
3.84%, 03/15/2023

    77,000        77,651  

Series 2017-AA, Class D,

    

4.16%, 05/15/2024 (C)

    436,000        441,367  

Dryden 41 Senior Loan Fund
Series 2015-41A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.97%, 3.32% (D), 04/15/2031 (C)

    687,000        682,412  

Dryden 55 CLO, Ltd.
Series 2018-55A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.06% (D), 04/15/2031 (C)

    417,000        415,217  

Dryden Senior Loan Fund
Series 2018-64A, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.97%, 3.19% (D), 04/18/2031 (C)

    978,000        976,306  

Evergreen Credit Card Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A,
2.95%, 03/15/2023 (C)

    262,000        260,930  

Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust
Series 2018-2A, Class C,
3.69%, 03/15/2023 (C)

    345,000        344,507  

Flagship Credit Auto Trust
Series 2016-3, Class C,
2.72%, 07/15/2022 (C)

    340,000        336,626  

Flatiron CLO 18, Ltd.
Series 2018-1A, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.42% (D), 04/17/2031 (C)

    540,000        536,979  

LCM XIV, LP
Series 14A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.04%, 3.44% (D), 07/20/2031 (C)

    308,889        308,381  

LCM XVIII, LP
Series 18A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.26% (D), 04/20/2031 (C)

    1,301,000        1,298,791  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Magnetite VIII, Ltd.
Series 2014-8A, Class AR2,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (D), 04/15/2031 (C)

    $   1,306,000        $   1,303,968  

Magnetite XV, Ltd.
Series 2015-15A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.01%, 3.09% (D), 07/25/2031 (C)

    694,000        694,000  

Octagon Investment Partners 36, Ltd.
Series 2018-1A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.97%, 2.73% (D), 04/15/2031 (C)

    1,330,000        1,326,377  

OSCAR US Funding Trust V
Series 2016-2A, Class A3,
2.73%, 12/15/2020 (C)

    160,000        159,516  

Series 2016-2A, Class A4,

    

2.99%, 12/15/2023 (C)

    231,000        229,398  

PFS Financing Corp.
Series 2017-D, Class A,
2.40%, 10/17/2022 (C)

    291,000        285,632  

Santander Drive Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2015-1, Class D,
3.24%, 04/15/2021

    209,000        209,310  

Series 2015-4, Class D,

    

3.53%, 08/16/2021

    435,000        437,653  

Sounds Point CLO IV-R, Ltd.
Series 2013-3RA, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%,
3.65% (D), 04/18/2031 (C)

    698,000        698,074  

Towd Point Mortgage Trust
Series 2015-3, Class A1A, 3.50% (D), 03/25/2054 (C)

    38,705        38,676  

Series 2018-2, Class A1,

    

3.25% (D), 03/25/2058 (C)

    531,195        525,744  

Series 2018-3, Class A1,

    

3.75% (D), 05/25/2058 (C)

    339,000        339,054  

Verizon Owner Trust
Series 2016-2A, Class C,
2.36%, 05/20/2021 (C)

    465,000        457,114  

Voya CLO, Ltd.

    

Series 2018-1A, Class A1,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.29% (D), 04/19/2031 (C)

    1,431,000        1,426,936  

Series 2018-2A, Class A1,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.37% (D), 07/15/2031 (C)

    1,206,616        1,206,616  

Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust
Series 2018-1A, Class C,
2.92%, 05/15/2023 (C)

    55,000        54,522  

Series 2018-1A, Class D,

    

3.41%, 05/15/2023 (C)

    55,000        54,667  

Series 2018-2A, Class B,

    

3.20%, 01/16/2024 (C)

      124,000          124,012  

Series 2018-2A, Class C,

    

3.50%, 01/16/2024 (C)

    214,000        214,548  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $26,785,475)

 

     26,708,909  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 13.1%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.5%  

Arconic, Inc.
5.13%, 10/01/2024 (A)

    $   999,000        $   986,512  

5.87%, 02/23/2022

    173,000        180,526  

General Dynamics Corp.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.29%, 2.65% (D), 05/11/2020

    246,000        246,607  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.38%, 2.74% (D), 05/11/2021

    246,000        246,857  

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc.
5.00%, 11/15/2025 (C)

    1,451,000        1,500,755  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
2.55%, 10/15/2022

    935,000        900,613  

Rockwell Collins, Inc.
3.20%, 03/15/2024

    399,000        384,387  
    

 

 

 
       4,446,257  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 1.9%  

Bank of America Corp.
2.50%, 10/21/2022, MTN

    2,974,000        2,848,641  

CitiBank NA
3-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.68% (D), 05/01/2020

    2,669,000        2,670,911  

Citigroup, Inc.
3.20%, 10/21/2026

    595,000        553,308  

4.60%, 03/09/2026

    367,000        366,473  

Citizens Bank NA
2.65%, 05/26/2022

    358,000        346,191  

Citizens Financial Group, Inc.

    

3.75%, 07/01/2024

    188,000        181,503  

4.30%, 12/03/2025

    1,215,000        1,207,190  

4.35%, 08/01/2025

    177,000        175,068  

First Republic Bank
4.63%, 02/13/2047

    776,000        766,098  

HSBC Holdings PLC
3-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.93% (D), 05/18/2021

    1,499,000        1,501,184  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.
2.30%, 08/15/2021, MTN

    1,058,000        1,022,146  

4.13%, 12/15/2026

    646,000        637,841  

JPMorgan Chase Bank NA

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.70% (D), 04/26/2021

    1,792,000        1,792,432  

Fixed until 04/26/2020, 3.09% (D), 04/26/2021

    1,671,000        1,667,083  

Royal Bank of Canada
3-Month LIBOR + 0.39%, 2.75% (D), 04/30/2021, MTN

    1,860,000        1,859,371  

SVB Financial Group
5.38%, 09/15/2020

    517,000        538,947  
    

 

 

 
       18,134,387  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.1%  

Masonite International Corp.
5.63%, 03/15/2023 (C)

      274,000          280,083  

Owens Corning

    

3.40%, 08/15/2026

    233,000        212,450  

4.20%, 12/01/2024

    584,000        576,159  
    

 

 

 
       1,068,692  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Capital Markets - 1.1%  

Cboe Global Markets, Inc.
3.65%, 01/12/2027

    $   943,000        $   909,958  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.65% (D), 05/21/2021

    947,000        950,844  

3.00%, 03/10/2025

    621,000        597,084  

3.25%, 05/21/2021

    294,000        295,175  

E*TRADE Financial Corp.
2.95%, 08/24/2022

    913,000        884,404  

3.80%, 08/24/2027

    982,000        940,040  

4.50%, 06/20/2028

    359,000        360,266  

Goldman Sachs Capital I
6.35%, 02/15/2034

    2,229,000        2,542,609  

Morgan Stanley
3.95%, 04/23/2027

    561,000        534,796  

Raymond James Financial, Inc.
3.63%, 09/15/2026

    449,000        431,181  

4.95%, 07/15/2046

    819,000        834,535  

5.63%, 04/01/2024

    396,000        425,128  

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.
3.63%, 04/01/2025

    632,000        625,347  
    

 

 

 
       10,331,367  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.3%  

CF Industries, Inc.
4.50%, 12/01/2026 (C)

    801,000        795,322  

5.38%, 03/15/2044

    698,000        615,985  

Sherwin-Williams Co.
2.75%, 06/01/2022

    272,000        263,567  

Syngenta Finance NV
3.70%, 04/24/2020 (C)

    355,000        353,711  

3.93%, 04/23/2021 (C)

    339,000        338,141  

4.44%, 04/24/2023 (C)

    200,000        198,880  

4.89%, 04/24/2025 (C)

    200,000        196,096  
    

 

 

 
       2,761,702  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.1%  

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
4.25%, 07/02/2024

    475,000        479,305  

Vulcan Materials Co.
4.50%, 04/01/2025

    817,000        821,034  
    

 

 

 
       1,300,339  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.5%  

Ally Financial, Inc.
8.00%, 12/31/2018

    304,000        309,700  

American Express Credit Corp.
2.13%, 03/18/2019

    2,255,000        2,246,345  

Capital One Financial Corp.
3.30%, 10/30/2024

    387,000        367,581  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.
3.20%, 07/13/2020

      932,000          927,605  

3.55%, 04/09/2021

    722,000        719,659  
    

 

 

 
       4,570,890  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.1%  

Ball Corp.
4.38%, 12/15/2020

    570,000        574,275  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Distributors - 0.2%  

HD Supply, Inc.
5.75% (E), 04/15/2024 (C)

    $   1,566,000        $   1,642,342  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.6%  

AT&T, Inc.
4.10%, 02/15/2028 (C)

      947,000          904,927  

4.25%, 03/01/2027

    929,000        909,226  

5.15%, 11/15/2046 (C)

    558,000        525,685  

5.25%, 03/01/2037

    259,000        254,740  

BellSouth LLC
4.33%, 04/26/2021 (C)

    1,883,000        1,902,634  

Verizon Communications, Inc.
2.63%, 08/15/2026

    829,000        735,771  

4.86%, 08/21/2046

    364,000        347,828  
    

 

 

 
       5,580,811  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.4%  

Duke Energy Corp.
1.80%, 09/01/2021

    360,000        344,593  

2.40%, 08/15/2022

    399,000        383,750  

NextEra Energy Operating Partners, LP
4.25%, 09/15/2024 (C)

    120,000        115,500  

PPL WEM, Ltd. / Western Power Distribution, Ltd.
5.38%, 05/01/2021 (C)

    2,144,000        2,230,236  

Southern Co.
2.95%, 07/01/2023

    687,000        662,686  
    

 

 

 
       3,736,765  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.3%  

Trimble, Inc.
4.15%, 06/15/2023

    259,000        258,167  

4.75%, 12/01/2024

    1,237,000        1,263,233  

4.90%, 06/15/2028

    1,945,000        1,941,544  
    

 

 

 
       3,462,944  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.2%  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP / Regency Energy Finance Corp.
5.75%, 09/01/2020

    270,000        280,611  

5.88%, 03/01/2022

    624,000        659,942  

NuStar Logistics, LP
5.63%, 04/28/2027 (A)

    645,000        624,038  
    

 

 

 
       1,564,591  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 0.8%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.
2.75%, 01/15/2020

    688,000        682,381  

4.50%, 07/30/2029

    307,000        305,892  

4.60%, 04/01/2022

    1,414,000        1,459,333  

American Tower Corp.
3.30%, 02/15/2021

      959,000          957,961  

4.40%, 02/15/2026

    591,000        586,767  

Crown Castle International Corp.
3.20%, 09/01/2024

    611,000        576,643  

5.25%, 01/15/2023

    808,000        846,653  

MGM Growth Properties Operating Partnership, LP / MGP Finance Co-Issuer, Inc.
5.63%, 05/01/2024

    381,000        385,762  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (continued)  

Reckson Operating Partnership, LP
7.75%, 03/15/2020

    $   1,330,000        $   1,420,927  

Senior Housing Properties Trust
6.75%, 04/15/2020 - 12/15/2021

      244,000          255,927  

SL Green Realty Corp.
5.00%, 08/15/2018

    304,000        304,453  
    

 

 

 
       7,782,699  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.0% (F)  

Sysco Corp.
2.50%, 07/15/2021

    258,000        251,937  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.2%  

WM Wrigley Jr. Co.
2.40%, 10/21/2018 (C)

    1,900,000        1,898,656  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.0% (F)  

Becton Dickinson and Co.
2.89%, 06/06/2022

    457,000        442,026  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.9%  

Aetna, Inc.
2.80%, 06/15/2023

    475,000        452,594  

Centene Corp.
4.75%, 05/15/2022 - 01/15/2025

    627,000        624,461  

6.13%, 02/15/2024

    569,000        599,584  

Centene Escrow I Corp.
5.38%, 06/01/2026 (C)

    471,000        477,184  

CVS Health Corp.
4.10%, 03/25/2025

    1,111,000        1,105,113  

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    1,542,000        1,521,043  

4.75%, 12/01/2022

    460,000        477,176  

5.05%, 03/25/2048

    545,000        554,645  

HCA, Inc.
3.75%, 03/15/2019

    511,000        512,916  

5.00%, 03/15/2024

    654,000        654,000  

5.25%, 06/15/2026

    494,000        490,641  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.
2.38%, 10/15/2022

    333,000        320,181  

WellCare Health Plans, Inc.
5.25%, 04/01/2025

    624,000        620,880  
    

 

 

 
       8,410,418  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.4%  

1011778 BC ULC / New Red Finance, Inc.
4.63%, 01/15/2022 (C)

    996,000        996,000  

MGM Resorts International
6.00%, 03/15/2023

    74,000        76,220  

6.63%, 12/15/2021

    411,000        433,091  

6.75%, 10/01/2020

    1,014,000        1,062,165  

7.75%, 03/15/2022

    148,000        160,580  

Wyndham Destinations, Inc.
4.15%, 04/01/2024

      456,000          448,590  

4.50%, 04/01/2027

    262,000        254,795  

5.10%, 10/01/2025

    234,000        239,558  
    

 

 

 
       3,670,999  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.2%  

DR Horton, Inc.
3.75%, 03/01/2019

    661,000        663,063  

MDC Holdings, Inc.
5.50%, 01/15/2024

    569,000        574,690  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Household Durables (continued)  

Toll Brothers Finance Corp.
4.00%, 12/31/2018

    $   262,000        $   261,967  

4.38%, 04/15/2023

    99,000        97,020  

5.88%, 02/15/2022

    334,000        346,525  
    

 

 

 
       1,943,265  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.0% (F)  

Amazon.com, Inc.
2.80%, 08/22/2024

    450,000        433,592  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.3%  

First Data Corp.
7.00%, 12/01/2023 (C)

    905,000        942,630  

Total System Services, Inc.
3.80%, 04/01/2021

    587,000        591,013  

4.80%, 04/01/2026

    1,249,000        1,280,390  
    

 

 

 
       2,814,033  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.5%  

CCO Holdings LLC / CCO Holdings Capital Corp.
5.25%, 03/15/2021

    713,000        717,902  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital
4.91%, 07/23/2025

    1,127,000        1,138,140  

UBM PLC
5.75%, 11/03/2020 (C)

    471,000        480,306  

Unitymedia GmbH
6.13%, 01/15/2025 (C)

    1,074,000        1,106,220  

Unitymedia Hessen GMBH & Co. KG / Unitymedia NRW GMBH
5.00%, 01/15/2025 (A) (C)

    561,000        568,012  

Warner Media LLC
3.60%, 07/15/2025

    578,000        549,573  
    

 

 

 
       4,560,153  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.5%  

Anglo American Capital PLC
4.13%, 09/27/2022 (C)

    213,000        214,164  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.
3.10%, 03/15/2020

    264,000        258,720  

3.55%, 03/01/2022

    996,000        946,200  

4.55%, 11/14/2024 (A)

    389,000        369,550  

5.45%, 03/15/2043

    393,000        344,740  

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.
4.50%, 04/15/2023

    644,000        658,519  

Steel Dynamics, Inc.
4.13%, 09/15/2025

    652,000        625,105  

5.00%, 12/15/2026

    297,000        297,000  

Teck Resources, Ltd.
4.50%, 01/15/2021

    269,000        269,000  

4.75%, 01/15/2022

    390,000        390,815  

8.50%, 06/01/2024 (C)

    775,000        849,594  
    

 

 

 
       5,223,407  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.1%  

Sempra Energy
3-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.85% (D), 01/15/2021

    683,000        683,343  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 1.4%  

Andeavor Logistics, LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.
3.50%, 12/01/2022

    $   209,000        $   204,209  

5.25%, 01/15/2025

    253,000        259,295  

Cheniere Corpus Christi Holdings LLC
5.13%, 06/30/2027

    779,000        772,184  

Columbia Pipeline Group, Inc.
4.50%, 06/01/2025

    297,000        296,318  

Continental Resources, Inc.
4.50%, 04/15/2023

    987,000        1,001,591  

5.00%, 09/15/2022

    1,490,000        1,509,687  

Enbridge Energy Partners, LP
5.88%, 10/15/2025

    586,000        637,735  

Energy Transfer Equity, LP
4.25%, 03/15/2023

    508,000        490,225  

5.50%, 06/01/2027

    327,000        327,000  

5.88%, 01/15/2024

    458,000        469,450  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP
4.15%, 10/01/2020

    366,000        370,178  

4.95%, 06/15/2028

    460,000        458,571  

6.00%, 06/15/2048

    522,000        521,941  

EnLink Midstream Partners, LP
4.15%, 06/01/2025

    267,000        246,765  

4.85%, 07/15/2026

    767,000        726,778  

EQT Midstream Partners, LP
5.50%, 07/15/2028

    755,000        754,871  

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, LP
3.50%, 03/01/2021

    170,000        169,531  

3.95%, 09/01/2022

    557,000        556,927  

5.00%, 10/01/2021

    436,000        452,403  

Motiva Enterprises LLC
5.75%, 01/15/2020 (C)

    161,000        166,048  

NGPL PipeCo LLC
4.38%, 08/15/2022 (C)

    117,000        115,830  

4.88%, 08/15/2027 (C)

    252,000        248,850  

Phillips 66 Partners, LP
3.61%, 02/15/2025

    538,000        513,019  

3.75%, 03/01/2028

    182,000        170,096  

Plains All American Pipeline, LP / PAA Finance Corp.
4.65%, 10/15/2025

    222,000        221,230  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC
5.00%, 03/15/2027

    967,000        982,653  

Williams Cos., Inc.
3.70%, 01/15/2023

    310,000        299,925  

Williams Partners, LP
3.60%, 03/15/2022

      305,000          303,509  
    

 

 

 
       13,246,819  
    

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products - 0.2%  

Georgia-Pacific LLC
3.16%, 11/15/2021 (C)

    1,045,000        1,038,337  

3.60%, 03/01/2025 (C)

    831,000        827,248  
    

 

 

 
       1,865,585  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.2%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.00%, 03/12/2020

    512,000        509,574  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Pharmaceuticals (continued)  

Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Co., BV
2.95%, 12/18/2022

    $   86,000        $   78,274  

Teva Pharmaceutical Finance
Netherlands III BV
2.80%, 07/21/2023

    490,000        423,237  

6.00%, 04/15/2024

    719,000        712,045  
    

 

 

 
       1,723,130  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 0.5%  

IHS Markit, Ltd.
4.75%, 02/15/2025 (C)

    767,000        759,330  

5.00%, 11/01/2022 (C)

    94,000        94,823  

Verisk Analytics, Inc.
4.13%, 09/12/2022

    177,000        180,263  

4.88%, 01/15/2019

    832,000        839,496  

5.50%, 06/15/2045

    990,000        1,020,432  

5.80%, 05/01/2021

    1,531,000        1,620,852  
    

 

 

 
       4,515,196  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.2%  

Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc.
4.40%, 11/15/2022

    711,000        727,078  

Kennedy-Wilson, Inc.
5.88%, 04/01/2024

    1,597,000        1,549,090  
    

 

 

 
       2,276,168  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.2%  

Broadcom Corp. / Broadcom Cayman Finance, Ltd.
3.13%, 01/15/2025

    376,000        348,801  

3.63%, 01/15/2024

    292,000        282,658  

Marvell Technology Group, Ltd.
4.20%, 06/22/2023

    358,000        357,945  

4.88%, 06/22/2028

    405,000        402,408  

Microchip Technology, Inc.
3.92%, 06/01/2021 (C)

    395,000        395,656  
    

 

 

 
       1,787,468  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.1%  

Cadence Design Systems, Inc.
4.38%, 10/15/2024

    734,000        743,440  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.1%  

Crown Castle Towers LLC
3.72%, 07/15/2043 (C) (G)

    448,000        448,372  

4.24%, 07/15/2048 (C) (G)

    769,000        772,714  
    

 

 

 
       1,221,086  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $126,991,707)

 

     124,668,782  
    

 

 

 
LOAN ASSIGNMENTS - 0.2%  
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.2%  

Gentiva Health Services, Inc.
1st Lien Delayed Draw Term Loan,

    

TBD, 06/02/2025 (G) (H)

      611,462          611,462  

1st Lien Term Loan,

    

TBD, 06/02/2025 (G) (H)

    978,000        978,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Loan Assignments
(Cost $1,573,567)

 

     1,589,462  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 1.7%  

Angel Oak Mortgage Trust LLC
Series 2018-AOMT, Class A1,
3.67% (D), 07/27/2048 (C)

    $   232,000        $   231,998  

Arroyo Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A1,
3.76% (D), 04/25/2048 (C)

    361,815        362,498  

BAMLL Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2013-WBRK, Class A,
3.65% (D), 03/10/2037 (C)

    573,000        565,206  

Series 2014-FL1, Class D,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 4.00%, 6.53% (D), 12/15/2031 (C)

    100,000        98,657  

Series 2014-FL1, Class E,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 5.50%, 5.53% (D), 12/15/2031 (C)

    251,657        242,657  

BBCMS Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-TALL, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.72%, 2.80% (D), 03/15/2037 (C)

    2,826,000        2,821,554  

BBCMS Trust
Series 2015-SRCH, Class A2,
4.20%, 08/10/2035 (C)

    715,000        736,356  

BXP Trust
Series 2017-GM, Class A,
3.38%, 06/13/2039 (C)

    324,000        314,704  

Caesars Palace Las Vegas Trust
Series 2017-VICI, Class C,
4.14%, 10/15/2034 (C)

    458,000        461,680  

Series 2017-VICI, Class D,

    

4.50% (D), 10/15/2034 (C)

    495,000        498,047  

Series 2017-VICI, Class E,

    

4.50% (D), 10/15/2034 (C)

    650,000        638,136  

CGMS Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2017-MDRB, Class B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.75%, 3.82% (D), 07/15/2030 (C)

    274,000        273,794  

Series 2017-MDRB, Class C,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 2.50%, 4.57% (D), 07/15/2030 (C)

    173,000        172,808  

CSMLT Trust
Series 2015-2, Class A6,
3.50% (D), 08/25/2045 (C)

    444,397        441,932  

GSCCRE Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2015-HULA, Class E,
1-Month LIBOR + 4.40%, 6.47% (D), 08/15/2032 (C)

    458,000        459,255  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2010-C2, Class E,
5.83% (D), 11/15/2043 (C)

      314,000          311,113  

Series 2015-UES, Class E,

    

3.74% (D), 09/05/2032 (C)

    236,000        232,653  

Series 2016-WIKI, Class C,

    

3.55%, 10/05/2031 (C)

    96,000        94,487  

Series 2016-WIKI, Class D,

    

4.14% (D), 10/05/2031 (C)

    146,000        143,393  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

MSSG Trust
Series 2017-237P, Class A,
3.40%, 09/13/2039 (C)

    $   399,000        $   386,979  

New Residential Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2017-3A, Class A1,
4.00% (D), 04/25/2057 (C)

    446,115        450,429  

Series 2018-2A, Class A1,

    

4.50% (D), 02/25/2058 (C)

    411,599        421,971  

Sequoia Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-CH2, Class A12,
4.00% (D), 06/25/2048 (C)

    925,782        936,638  

Starwood Retail Property Trust
Series 2014-STAR, Class D,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 3.25%, 5.32% (D), 11/15/2027 (C)

    311,000        301,972  

Series 2014-STAR, Class E,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 4.15%, 6.22% (D), 11/15/2027 (C)

    185,000        173,962  

Station Place Securitization Trust

    

Series 2017-3, Class A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 2.96% (D), 07/24/2018 (C) (I)

    921,000        921,026  

Series 2017-LD1, Class A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.89% (D), 11/25/2050 (C) (I)

    1,110,000        1,106,461  

Series 2017-LD1, Class B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.09% (D), 11/25/2050 (C) (I)

    220,000        219,453  

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2007-C30, Class AJ,
5.41% (D), 12/15/2043

    343,167        345,577  

Series 2007-C34, Class AJ,

    

6.31% (D), 05/15/2046

    106,150        107,938  

WinWater Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2015-5, Class A5,
3.50% (D), 08/20/2045 (C)

    1,298,386        1,287,920  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $15,899,772)

 

     15,761,254  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 10.1%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
3.00%, 01/01/2045 - 12/01/2046

    3,759,769        3,647,813  

3.50%, 02/01/2043 - 03/01/2048

    9,194,404        9,179,621  

3.50%, 03/01/2048 (G)

    1,752,275        1,746,440  

4.00%, 05/01/2046 - 06/01/2048

    6,772,327        6,912,830  

6.00%, 04/01/2040

    105,972        119,153  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

Structured Agency Credit Risk Debt
Notes

    

1-Month LIBOR + 3.60%, 5.69% (D), 04/25/2024

      848,000          940,678  

1-Month LIBOR + 4.50%, 6.59% (D), 02/25/2024

    1,146,000        1,321,585  

Federal National Mortgage Association
3.00%, 02/01/2043 - 02/01/2057

    8,525,765        8,276,784  

3.50%, 10/01/2042 - 08/01/2056

    14,171,041        14,158,542  

3.50%, TBA (G)

    1,017,000        1,012,216  

4.00%, 10/01/2046 - 06/01/2048

    12,331,505        12,594,553  

4.00%, TBA (G)

    10,316,000        10,517,181  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

4.50%, 11/01/2042 - 06/01/2048

    $   5,561,709        $   5,846,218  

4.50%, TBA (G)

    4,429,000        4,610,131  

5.00%, 07/01/2044

    1,078,259        1,167,318  

5.00%, TBA (G)

    4,290,500        4,536,594  

6.00%, 02/01/2037

    4,625        5,208  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

Connecticut Avenue Securities

    

1-Month LIBOR + 2.60%, 4.69% (D), 05/25/2024

    360,952        382,974  

1-Month LIBOR + 3.00%, 5.09% (D), 07/25/2024

    1,615,563        1,731,514  

Government National Mortgage
Association
3.00%, 02/20/2048

    926,533        907,086  

4.00%, 01/15/2045 - 12/15/2047

    2,933,995        3,021,621  

4.50%, 10/20/2041 - 05/20/2048

    2,849,151        3,022,710  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $97,324,588)

 

     95,658,770  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 13.5%  
U.S. Treasury - 13.5%  

U.S. Treasury Bond
2.75%, 08/15/2047 - 11/15/2047

    15,210,000        14,513,739  

3.00%, 05/15/2047

    1,137,000        1,140,331  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (A)

    7,057,000        7,080,707  

3.13%, 05/15/2048

    16,338,500        16,792,276  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.50%, 10/31/2019

    2,203,000        2,175,635  

1.75%, 11/30/2019

    10,076,000        9,974,453  

1.88%, 12/31/2019

    1,602,000        1,587,670  

2.00%, 01/31/2020

    2,737,000        2,716,366  

2.25%, 02/29/2020 - 11/15/2027

    20,627,000        20,368,203  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)             

U.S. Treasury Note (continued)

    

2.38%, 04/30/2020

    $   21,812,000        $   21,755,766  

2.50%, 05/31/2020

    12,573,000        12,567,106  

2.75%, 05/31/2023 - 02/15/2028

    10,488,000        10,463,048  

2.88%, 05/15/2028

    7,432,000        7,446,806  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $128,311,967)

 

     128,582,106  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.6%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (J)

      14,848,142          14,848,142  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $14,848,142)

 

     14,848,142  
    

 

 

 
     Principal     
Value
 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 2.5%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90%  (J), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $23,818,756 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $24,295,479.

    $  23,816,969        23,816,969  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $23,816,969)

 

     23,816,969  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $864,816,913)

 

     982,240,280  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (3.5)%

 

     (33,252,057
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  948,988,223  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (K)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 545,159,183     $     $     $ 545,159,183  

Master Limited Partnership

    5,446,703                   5,446,703  

Asset-Backed Securities

          26,708,909             26,708,909  

Corporate Debt Securities

          124,668,782             124,668,782  

Loan Assignments

          1,589,462             1,589,462  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          15,761,254             15,761,254  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          95,658,770             95,658,770  

U.S. Government Obligations

          128,582,106             128,582,106  

Securities Lending Collateral

    14,848,142                   14,848,142  

Repurchase Agreement

          23,816,969             23,816,969  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 565,454,028     $ 416,786,252     $     $ 982,240,280  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $14,540,459. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Non-income producing securities.
(C)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $62,510,348, representing 6.6% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(E)    Step bond. Coupon rate changes in increments to maturity. The rate disclosed is as of June 30, 2018; the maturity date disclosed is the ultimate maturity date.
(F)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(G)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(H)    All or a portion of the security represents unsettled loan commitments at June 30, 2018 where the rate will be determined at time of settlement.
(I)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $2,246,940 or 0.2% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(J)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(K)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
TBA    To Be Announced
TBD    To Be Determined

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $840,999,944)
(including securities loaned of $14,540,459)

  $ 958,423,311  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $23,816,969)

    23,816,969  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    75,445  

Investments sold

    5,132,713  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments sold

    17,825,242  

Interest

    2,407,068  

Dividends

    441,886  

Net income from securities lending

    2,241  

Prepaid expenses

    3,202  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

      1,008,128,077  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    315,530  

Investments purchased

    5,273,481  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    37,853,497  

Investment management fees

    553,071  

Distribution and service fees

    188,255  

Transfer agent costs

    1,697  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,891  

Audit and tax fees

    19,454  

Custody fees

    14,000  

Legal fees

    8,776  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    48,650  

Other

    12,410  

Collateral for securities on loan

    14,848,142  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    59,139,854  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 948,988,223  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 605,773  

Additional paid-in capital

    757,415,043  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    20,814,024  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    52,730,016  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    117,423,367  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 948,988,223  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 11,151,469  

Service Class

    937,836,754  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    701,736  

Service Class

    59,875,608  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 15.89  

Service Class

    15.66  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 5,370,262  

Interest income

    5,771,745  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    25,683  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (23,257
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    11,144,433  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    3,385,218  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,151,397  

Transfer agent costs

    6,553  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    14,504  

Audit and tax fees

    19,143  

Custody fees

    68,344  

Legal fees

    27,270  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    26,073  

Other

    14,038  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    4,712,540  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    6,431,893  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    31,663,946  

Foreign currency transactions

    (2,076
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    31,661,870  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (12,863,826
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    18,798,044  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   25,229,937  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 6,431,893     $ 13,434,331  

Net realized gain (loss)

    31,661,870       22,764,635  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (12,863,826     97,493,946  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    25,229,937       133,692,912  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (172,154

Service Class

          (11,323,493
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (11,495,647
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (50,945

Service Class

          (4,016,492
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (4,067,437
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (15,563,084
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    570,463       1,636,497  

Service Class

    21,124,997       68,626,763  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    21,695,460       70,263,260  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          223,099  

Service Class

          15,339,985  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          15,563,084  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,231,787     (1,716,827

Service Class

    (35,314,283     (32,051,232
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (36,546,070     (33,768,059
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (14,850,610     52,058,285  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    10,379,327       170,188,113  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    938,608,896       768,420,783  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   948,988,223     $   938,608,896  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 20,814,024     $ 14,382,131  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    36,355       114,418  

Service Class

    1,361,469       4,886,762  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,397,824       5,001,180  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          15,575  

Service Class

          1,083,340  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,098,915  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (78,982     (118,117

Service Class

    (2,279,042     (2,225,446
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,358,024     (2,343,563
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (42,627     11,876  

Service Class

    (917,573     3,744,656  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (960,200     3,756,532  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Initial Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 15.45     $ 13.47      $ 13.18     $ 13.60      $ 12.66      $ 10.70  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

     0.13       0.26        0.23 (B)       0.24        0.21        0.17  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     0.31       2.02        0.33       (0.21      0.83        1.88  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.44       2.28        0.56       0.03        1.04        2.05  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.23      (0.16     (0.12      (0.10      (0.09

Net realized gains

           (0.07      (0.11     (0.33              
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.30      (0.27     (0.45      (0.10      (0.09
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 15.89     $ 15.45      $ 13.47     $ 13.18      $ 13.60      $ 12.66  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (C)

     2.85 %(D)      17.04      4.33     0.34      8.19      19.27
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   11,151     $   11,503      $   9,868     $   10,148      $   10,495      $   9,777  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.76 %(E)      0.77      0.77     0.79      0.81      0.84

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.76 %(E)      0.77      0.77 %(B)      0.79      0.81      0.84

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

     1.62 %(E)      1.80      1.77 %(B)      1.76      1.63      1.43

Portfolio turnover rate

     55 %(D)      63      84     75      84      69

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 15.25     $ 13.30      $ 13.02     $ 13.45      $ 12.55      $ 10.62  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

     0.11       0.22        0.20 (B)       0.20        0.18        0.14  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     0.30       1.99        0.33       (0.20      0.80        1.87  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.41       2.21        0.53       0.00 (C)        0.98        2.01  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.19      (0.14     (0.10      (0.08      (0.08

Net realized gains

           (0.07      (0.11     (0.33              
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.26      (0.25     (0.43      (0.08      (0.08
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 15.66     $ 15.25      $ 13.30     $ 13.02      $ 13.45      $ 12.55  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     2.69 %(E)      16.73      4.12     0.12      7.83      19.02
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   937,837     $   927,106      $   758,553     $   617,439      $   391,062      $   221,099  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1.01 %(F)      1.02      1.03     1.04      1.06      1.09

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1.01 %(F)      1.02      1.02 %(B)      1.04      1.06      1.09

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

     1.38 %(F)      1.55      1.53 %(B)      1.51      1.39      1.20

Portfolio turnover rate

     55 %(E)      63      84     75      84      69

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Janus Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolios are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolios combine fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $4,000.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Loan assignments: Loan assignments are normally valued using an income approach, which projects future cash flows and converts those future cash flows to a present value using a discount rate. The resulting present value reflects the likely fair value of the loan. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise are categorized in Level 3.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolios, with the exception of Transamerica Aegon Government Money Market VP, normally value short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

 

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust – Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 5,848,461     $     $     $     $ 5,848,461  

Corporate Debt Securities

    1,792,586                         1,792,586  

U.S. Government Obligations

    7,207,095                         7,207,095  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 14,848,142     $     $     $     $ 14,848,142  

Total Borrowings

  $   14,848,142     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   14,848,142  
                                         

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.760

Over $250 million up to $500 million

     0.730  

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.705  

Over $1 billion

     0.680  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.90    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.15      May 1, 2019

 

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

       

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government          Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  205,612,064   $  296,476,957     $  257,107,477   $  248,244,216

 

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost  

Gross

Appreciation

 

Gross

(Depreciation)

  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  864,816,913   $  131,333,933   $  (13,910,566)   $  117,423,367

9. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables — Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Janus Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Janus Capital Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1- and 5-year periods and below its composite benchmark for the past 3-year period. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on December 9, 2011 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica Janus Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,077.70     $   4.28     $   1,020.70     $   4.16       0.83

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,076.40       5.56       1,019.40       5.41       1.08  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     96.9

Securities Lending Collateral

     4.4  

Repurchase Agreement

     3.0  

Convertible Preferred Stocks

     0.2  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (4.5

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 96.9%  
Aerospace & Defense - 2.3%  

Harris Corp.

    56,870        $  8,219,990  

Teledyne Technologies, Inc. (A)

    82,514        16,425,237  
    

 

 

 
       24,645,227  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 1.0%  

Ryanair Holdings PLC, ADR (A)

    87,799        10,029,280  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.5%  

Visteon Corp. (A)

    38,861        5,022,396  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 0.6%  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    23,795        6,871,044  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 2.2%  

ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A) (B)

    145,998        2,229,390  

Alkermes PLC (A)

    89,090        3,666,944  

Celgene Corp. (A)

    68,350        5,428,357  

DBV Technologies SA, ADR (A) (B)

    65,364        1,260,872  

Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. (A)

    112,305        11,032,843  
    

 

 

 
       23,618,406  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 1.0%  

A.O. Smith Corp.

    173,588        10,267,730  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 5.1%  

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.

    307,016        20,121,829  

MSCI, Inc.

    41,722        6,902,070  

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.

    480,338        26,308,112  
    

 

 

 
       53,332,011  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 3.4%  

Cimpress NV (A)

    116,839        16,936,982  

Edenred

    263,513        8,327,187  

Ritchie Bros Auctioneers, Inc.

    301,878        10,300,077  
    

 

 

 
       35,564,246  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.6%  

Synchrony Financial

    181,816        6,069,018  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 1.4%  

Sealed Air Corp.

    350,620        14,883,819  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 1.5%  

ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc. (A)

    271,484        16,145,153  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 2.9%  

AMETEK, Inc.

    77,631        5,601,853  

Sensata Technologies Holding PLC (A)

    532,217        25,322,885  
    

 

 

 
       30,924,738  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 6.0%  

Belden, Inc.

    113,152        6,915,850  

Dolby Laboratories, Inc., Class A

    135,828        8,379,229  

Flex, Ltd. (A)

    802,910        11,329,060  

National Instruments Corp.

    353,198        14,827,252  

TE Connectivity, Ltd.

    233,191        21,001,182  
    

 

 

 
       62,452,573  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 3.6%  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    177,331        19,119,829  

Lamar Advertising Co., Class A

    270,007        18,444,178  
    

 

 

 
       37,564,007  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 8.7%  

Boston Scientific Corp. (A)

    645,189        21,097,680  

Cooper Cos., Inc.

    75,140        17,691,713  

DexCom, Inc. (A)

    63,947        6,073,686  

ICU Medical, Inc. (A)

    35,127        10,315,044  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Health Care Equipment & Supplies (continued)  

STERIS PLC

    144,712        $   15,196,207  

Teleflex, Inc.

    33,002        8,851,466  

Varian Medical Systems, Inc. (A)

    101,808        11,577,606  
    

 

 

 
       90,803,402  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.6%  

Henry Schein, Inc. (A)

    80,890        5,875,850  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 1.7%  

athenahealth, Inc. (A)

    112,981        17,979,796  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 2.3%  

Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (B)

    199,598        13,786,234  

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    214,108        10,116,603  
    

 

 

 
       23,902,837  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.0%  

Carlisle Cos., Inc.

    96,950        10,500,655  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 3.5%  

Aon PLC

    127,232        17,452,414  

Intact Financial Corp.

    138,027        9,790,452  

WR Berkley Corp.

    126,435        9,155,158  
    

 

 

 
       36,398,024  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.5%  

Wayfair, Inc., Class A (A) (B)

    46,795        5,557,374  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 0.9%  

Dropbox, Inc. (A) (C) (D)

    282,250        9,150,545  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 9.8%  

Amdocs, Ltd.

    249,603        16,521,222  

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.

    65,938        7,589,464  

Euronet Worldwide, Inc. (A)

    41,130        3,445,460  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    145,294        15,405,523  

Gartner, Inc. (A)

    78,251        10,399,558  

Global Payments, Inc.

    154,625        17,239,141  

Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.

    47,453        6,185,973  

WEX, Inc. (A)

    138,308        26,344,908  
    

 

 

 
       103,131,249  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 4.2%  

IQVIA Holdings, Inc. (A)

    124,023        12,379,976  

PerkinElmer, Inc.

    229,002        16,769,817  

Waters Corp. (A)

    78,192        15,137,189  
    

 

 

 
       44,286,982  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 2.4%  

Middleby Corp. (A)

    60,936        6,362,937  

Rexnord Corp. (A)

    407,663        11,846,687  

Wabtec Corp. (B)

    68,378        6,740,703  
    

 

 

 
       24,950,327  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.9%  

Omnicom Group, Inc.

    130,121        9,924,329  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.3%  

World Fuel Services Corp.

    160,429        3,274,356  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 4.4%  

CoStar Group, Inc. (A)

    45,168        18,637,672  

IHS Markit, Ltd. (A)

    139,325        7,187,777  

Verisk Analytics, Inc. (A)

    190,283        20,482,062  
    

 

 

 
       46,307,511  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.9%  

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

    62,276        9,276,633  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 8.3%  

KLA-Tencor Corp.

    135,692        $   13,912,501  

Lam Research Corp.

    74,358        12,852,780  

Microchip Technology, Inc. (B)

    264,666        24,071,373  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (A)

    940,587        20,913,952  

Xilinx, Inc.

    236,037        15,403,774  
    

 

 

 
       87,154,380  
    

 

 

 
Software - 10.0%  

Atlassian Corp. PLC, Class A (A)

    336,588        21,043,482  

Constellation Software, Inc.

    32,579        25,265,979  

Intuit, Inc.

    31,409        6,417,016  

Nice, Ltd., ADR (A)

    187,318        19,437,989  

SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.

    413,748        21,473,521  

Ultimate Software Group, Inc. (A)

    42,143        10,843,815  
    

 

 

 
       104,481,802  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.1%  

Tractor Supply Co.

    72,403        5,538,105  

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (B)

    100,592        6,174,337  
    

 

 

 
       11,712,442  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 2.6%  

Carter’s, Inc.

    71,743        7,776,224  

Gildan Activewear, Inc.

    468,220        13,185,075  

Lululemon Athletica, Inc. (A)

    48,198        6,017,520  
    

 

 

 
       26,978,819  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.7%  

Ferguson PLC

    87,259        7,082,346  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $764,714,721)

 

     1,016,119,307  
    

 

 

 
CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.2%  
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.1%  

Belden, Inc.,
6.75%

    8,000        669,360  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCKS (continued)  
Internet Software & Services - 0.1%  

Dropbox, Inc.,
0.00% (A) (D) (E)

    27,967        $   906,690  
    

 

 

 

Total Convertible Preferred Stocks
(Cost $1,179,619)

 

     1,576,050  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 4.4%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (F)

    46,504,240        46,504,240  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $46,504,240)

 

     46,504,240  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 3.0%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (F), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $31,189,417 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $31,815,628.

    $  31,187,078        31,187,078  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $31,187,078)

 

     31,187,078  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $843,585,658)

 

     1,095,386,675  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (4.5)%

 

     (46,820,939
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  1,048,565,736  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 1,000,709,774     $ 15,409,533     $     $ 1,016,119,307  

Convertible Preferred Stocks

    1,576,050                   1,576,050  

Securities Lending Collateral

    46,504,240                   46,504,240  

Repurchase Agreement

          31,187,078             31,187,078  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,048,790,064     $ 46,596,611     $     $ 1,095,386,675  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

Transfers

 

Investments   Transfers from
Level 1 to Level 2
    Transfers from
Level 2 to Level 1
    Transfers from
Level 2 to Level 3
    Transfers from
Level 3 to Level 1
 

Common Stocks (D)

  $     $     $     $ 9,150,545  

Convertible Preferred Stocks (D)

                      906,690  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $     $     $     $ 10,057,235  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)   Non-income producing securities.
(B)   All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $45,497,908. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)   Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $9,150,545 or 0.9% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)   Transferred from Level 3 to 1 due to utilizing quoted market prices in active markets, which were not available at the prior reporting period.
(E)   Percentage rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.
(F)   Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(G)   The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $812,398,580)
(including securities loaned of $45,497,908)

  $ 1,064,199,597  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $31,187,078)

    31,187,078  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $424,714)

    428,159  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    110,965  

Interest

    780  

Dividends

    236,827  

Net income from securities lending

    10,077  

Prepaid expenses

    3,007  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,096,176,490  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    230,456  

Investments purchased

    614  

Investment management fees

    672,786  

Distribution and service fees

    26,166  

Transfer agent costs

    1,472  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,103  

Audit and tax fees

    15,524  

Custody fees

    13,362  

Legal fees

    8,273  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    126,315  

Other

    9,443  

Collateral for securities on loan

    46,504,240  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    47,610,754  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,048,565,736  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 302,767  

Additional paid-in capital

    723,267,408  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    1,339,883  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    71,851,829  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    251,801,017  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    2,832  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,048,565,736  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 920,303,938  

Service Class

    128,261,798  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    26,436,290  

Service Class

    3,840,372  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 34.81  

Service Class

    33.40  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 5,000,307  

Interest income

    89,166  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    53,044  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (99,218
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    5,043,299  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    3,699,860  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    157,045  

Transfer agent costs

    6,100  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    13,888  

Audit and tax fees

    15,508  

Custody fees

    67,471  

Legal fees

    25,967  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    59,012  

Other

    11,178  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    4,056,029  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    987,270  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    25,967,907  

Foreign currency transactions

    (23,289
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    25,944,618  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    44,729,831  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    2,687  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    44,732,518  
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    70,677,136  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   71,664,406  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 987,270     $ 475,277  

Net realized gain (loss)

    25,944,618       46,950,684  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    44,732,518       159,428,604  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    71,664,406       206,854,565  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (730,193
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (730,193
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (4,607,682

Service Class

          (750,145
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (5,357,827
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (6,088,020
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    153,999,613       12,314,594  

Service Class

    6,292,758       9,995,353  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    160,292,371       22,309,947  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          5,337,875  

Service Class

          750,145  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          6,088,020  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (28,964,276     (109,809,032

Service Class

    (8,636,909     (14,849,742
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (37,601,185     (124,658,774
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    122,691,186       (96,260,807
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    194,355,592       104,505,738  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    854,210,144       749,704,406  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,048,565,736     $   854,210,144  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,339,883     $ 352,613  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    4,597,308       422,806  

Service Class

    191,267       361,253  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    4,788,575       784,059  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          185,471  

Service Class

          27,101  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          212,572  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (845,769     (3,730,809

Service Class

    (264,182     (539,265
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,109,951     (4,270,074
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    3,751,539       (3,122,532

Service Class

    (72,915     (150,911
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    3,678,624       (3,273,443
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Initial Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 32.30     $ 25.23      $ 28.35     $ 35.49      $ 37.94      $ 28.05  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

     0.04       0.03        0.04 (B)       (0.25      0.02        (0.02

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     2.47       7.26        (0.66     (1.61      (0.00 )(C)       10.87  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     2.51       7.29        (0.62     (1.86      0.02        10.85  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.03                          (0.27

Net realized gains

           (0.19      (2.50     (5.28      (2.47      (0.69
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.22      (2.50     (5.28      (2.47      (0.96
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 34.81     $ 32.30      $ 25.23     $ 28.35      $ 35.49      $ 37.94  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     7.77 %(E)      29.01      (2.04 )%      (5.03 )%       0.02      39.14
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   920,304     $   732,785      $   651,050     $   521,496      $   768,562      $   839,396  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.83 %(F)      0.83      0.87     0.87      0.88      0.88

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.83 %(F)      0.83      0.86 %(B)      0.87      0.88      0.88

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

     0.25 %(F)      0.09      0.17 %(B)      (0.76 )%       0.05      (0.05 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

     8 %(E)      15      123     21      43      49

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 31.03     $ 24.27      $ 27.44     $ 34.62      $ 37.16      $ 27.49  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

     (0.01     (0.04      (0.01 )(B)      (0.33      (0.07      (0.10

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     2.38       6.99        (0.66     (1.57      (0.00 )(C)       10.66  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     2.37       6.95        (0.67     (1.90      (0.07      10.56  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

                                      (0.20

Net realized gains

           (0.19      (2.50     (5.28      (2.47      (0.69
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.19      (2.50     (5.28      (2.47      (0.89
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 33.40     $ 31.03      $ 24.27     $ 27.44      $ 34.62      $ 37.16  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     7.64 %(E)      28.74      (2.30 )%      (5.26 )%       (0.23 )%       38.83
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   128,262     $   121,425      $   98,654     $   107,324      $   115,823      $   118,292  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1.08 %(F)      1.08      1.12     1.12      1.13      1.13

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1.08 %(F)      1.08      1.11 %(B)      1.12      1.13      1.13

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

     (0.04 )%(F)      (0.16 )%       (0.04 )%(B)      (1.02 )%       (0.20 )%       (0.30 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

     8 %(E)      15      123     21      43      49

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $2,627.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

 

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust – Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 46,504,240     $     $     $     $ 46,504,240  

Total Borrowings

  $ 46,504,240     $     $     $     $   46,504,240  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Small and medium capitalization risk: Small or medium capitalization companies may be more at risk than large capitalization companies because, among other things, they may have limited product lines, operating history, market or financial resources, or because they may depend on a limited management group. The prices of securities of small and medium capitalization companies generally are more volatile than those of large capitalization companies and are more likely to be adversely affected than large capitalization companies by changes in earnings results and investor expectations or poor economic or market conditions. Securities of small and medium capitalization companies may underperform large capitalization companies, may be harder to sell at times and at prices the portfolio managers believe appropriate and may offer greater potential for losses.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.805

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.770  

Over $1 billion

     0.750  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Effective May 1, 2018

     

Initial Class

     1.00      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.25        May 1, 2019  

Prior to May 1, 2018

     

Initial Class

     0.90     

Service Class

     1.15     

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  183,751,644   $  —     $  74,419,158   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  843,585,658   $  268,285,784   $  (16,484,767)   $  251,801,017

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Janus Capital Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its benchmark for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on May 1, 2016 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,109.60     $   4.03     $   1,021.00     $   3.86       0.77

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,108.20       5.33       1,019.70       5.11       1.02  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.3

Repurchase Agreement

     2.0  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     0.7  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.3%             
Aerospace & Defense - 2.9%             

Boeing Co.

    109,679        $  36,798,401  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 1.0%             

FedEx Corp.

    55,158        12,524,176  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 1.9%             

Tesla, Inc. (A)

    70,281        24,102,869  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 3.0%             

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    233,812        24,363,210  

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

    97,097        13,117,805  
    

 

 

 
       37,481,015  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 1.5%             

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    40,060        8,767,932  

Monster Beverage Corp. (A)

    183,957        10,540,736  
    

 

 

 
       19,308,668  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 3.0%             

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    70,175        8,712,226  

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc. (A)

    133,521        12,577,678  

Celgene Corp. (A)

    79,286        6,296,894  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    60,883        10,347,675  
    

 

 

 
       37,934,473  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.1%             

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    62,923        13,878,926  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.9%             

Albemarle Corp. (B)

    118,445        11,172,917  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.8%             

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    108,179        22,607,248  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 1.7%  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    89,148        21,871,570  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 3.6%             

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (A)

    8,479        3,657,586  

Marriott International, Inc., Class A

    185,854        23,529,116  

McDonald’s Corp.

    117,672        18,438,026  
    

 

 

 
       45,624,728  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 11.5%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    43,581        74,078,984  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    10,464        21,211,470  

Netflix, Inc. (A)

    127,261        49,813,773  
    

 

 

 
       145,104,227  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 15.9%             

Alibaba Group Holding, Ltd., ADR (A)

    255,020        47,313,861  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    27,912        31,517,951  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    28,248        31,514,881  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    251,411        48,854,185  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

    838,589        42,091,918  
    

 

 

 
       201,292,796  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 10.6%             

FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (A)

    88,558        18,654,743  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    228,854        44,974,388  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (A)

    232,130        19,329,465  

Square, Inc., Class A (A)

    124,968        7,703,027  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    325,302        43,086,250  
    

 

 

 
       133,747,873  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 1.3%  

Illumina, Inc. (A)

    59,734        16,683,109  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)             
Machinery - 2.3%             

Caterpillar, Inc.

    120,922        $   16,405,488  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    81,291        12,669,202  
    

 

 

 
       29,074,690  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 1.1%             

Concho Resources, Inc. (A)

    102,452        14,174,234  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 1.5%             

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    135,387        19,318,371  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 1.8%             

AstraZeneca PLC, ADR

    272,013        9,550,377  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    247,389        13,690,507  
    

 

 

 
       23,240,884  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 5.6%  

Broadcom, Inc.

    102,282        24,817,704  

NVIDIA Corp.

    128,975        30,554,178  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    136,125        15,007,781  
    

 

 

 
       70,379,663  
    

 

 

 
Software - 14.5%             

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    239,502        18,278,793  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    149,091        36,349,877  

Microsoft Corp.

    510,178        50,308,652  

Red Hat, Inc. (A)

    130,578        17,545,766  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    272,445        37,161,498  

Splunk, Inc. (A)

    108,036        10,707,448  

Workday, Inc., Class A (A)

    106,316        12,876,994  
    

 

 

 
       183,229,028  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.7%             

Home Depot, Inc.

    108,306        21,130,501  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 3.9%  

Apple, Inc.

    267,541        49,524,515  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 3.2%  

Kering SA, ADR

    398,163        22,334,953  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    220,257        17,550,078  
    

 

 

 
       39,885,031  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $855,307,573)

       1,230,089,913  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.0% (C)  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (D)

    68,434        68,434  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $68,434)

       68,434  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 2.0%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (D), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $25,577,082 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $26,091,034.

    $  25,575,164        $   25,575,164  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $25,575,164)

 

     25,575,164  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $880,951,171)

 

     1,255,733,511  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 0.7%

 

     8,937,265  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  1,264,670,776  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (E)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 1,187,997,995     $ 42,091,918     $     $ 1,230,089,913  

Securities Lending Collateral

    68,434                   68,434  

Repurchase Agreement

          25,575,164             25,575,164  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,188,066,429     $ 67,667,082     $     $ 1,255,733,511  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $67,069. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(D)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(E)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $855,376,007)
(including securities loaned of $67,069)

  $ 1,230,158,347  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $25,575,164)

    25,575,164  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    217,927  

Investments sold

    9,744,566  

Interest

    639  

Dividends

    1,551,348  

Tax reclaims

    53,509  

Net income from securities lending

    449  

Prepaid expenses

    4,405  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,267,306,354  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    1,664,598  

Investment management fees

    760,893  

Distribution and service fees

    35,298  

Transfer agent costs

    2,254  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    3,998  

Audit and tax fees

    18,380  

Custody fees

    26,644  

Legal fees

    11,468  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    30,545  

Other

    13,066  

Collateral for securities on loan

    68,434  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    2,635,578  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,264,670,776  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,065,572  

Additional paid-in capital

    644,051,371  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    1,662,479  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    243,107,167  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    374,782,340  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    1,847  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,264,670,776  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 1,091,219,506  

Service Class

    173,451,270  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    91,307,246  

Service Class

    15,249,954  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 11.95  

Service Class

    11.37  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 6,756,838  

Interest income

    23,401  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    38,086  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (299,027
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    6,519,298  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    4,572,579  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    210,350  

Transfer agent costs

    8,624  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    19,330  

Audit and tax fees

    18,008  

Custody fees

    89,157  

Legal fees

    35,702  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    15,243  

Other

    15,507  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    4,984,500  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    1,534,798  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    90,976,493  

Foreign currency transactions

    (3,816
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    90,972,677  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    37,603,967  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (1,254
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    37,602,713  
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    128,575,390  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   130,110,188  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,534,798     $ 152,293  

Net realized gain (loss)

    90,972,677       154,920,157  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    37,602,713       187,879,930  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    130,110,188       342,952,380  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (64,965
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (64,965
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (102,970,132

Service Class

          (15,108,657
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (118,078,789
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (118,143,754
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    13,165,163       15,747,076  

Service Class

    10,942,933       26,686,153  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    24,108,096       42,433,229  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          103,035,097  

Service Class

          15,108,657  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          118,143,754  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (73,473,576     (151,109,172

Service Class

    (15,020,912     (19,918,355
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (88,494,488     (171,027,527
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (64,386,392     (10,450,544
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    65,723,796       214,358,082  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,198,946,980       984,588,898  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,264,670,776     $   1,198,946,980  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,662,479     $ 127,681  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    1,136,679       1,534,032  

Service Class

    986,220       2,775,419  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,122,899       4,309,451  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          10,655,129  

Service Class

          1,638,683  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          12,293,812  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (6,267,999     (14,900,138

Service Class

    (1,391,230     (2,015,520
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (7,659,229     (16,915,658
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (5,131,320     (2,710,977

Service Class

    (405,010     2,398,582  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (5,536,330     (312,395
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.77     $ 8.80     $ 10.80     $ 10.54     $ 10.71     $ 8.44  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.02       0.00 (B)       0.00 (B)(C)       (0.00 )(B)      (0.00 )(B)      0.00 (B)  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    1.16       3.08       (0.15     1.14       1.04       3.05  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    1.18       3.08       (0.15     1.14       1.04       3.05  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.00 )(B)                        (0.03

Net realized gains

          (1.11     (1.85     (0.88     (1.21     (0.75
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (1.11     (1.85     (0.88     (1.21     (0.78
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.95     $ 10.77     $ 8.80     $ 10.80     $ 10.54     $ 10.71  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return(D)

    10.96 %(E)      36.44     (1.65 )%      11.40     9.96     37.70
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,091,220     $   1,038,335     $   872,589     $   902,263     $   1,049,200     $   980,059  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.77 %(F)      0.79     0.80     0.77     0.79     0.80

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.77 %(F)      0.79     0.79 %(C)      0.77     0.79 %(G)      0.80 %(G) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.28 %(F)      0.05     0.03 %(C)      (0.02 )%      (0.02 )%      0.02

Portfolio turnover rate

    18 %(E)      50     60     32     36     41

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.26     $ 8.45     $ 10.47     $ 10.27     $ 10.48     $ 8.28  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.00 (C)       (0.02     (0.02 )(B)      (0.03     (0.03     (0.02

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    1.11       2.94       (0.15     1.11       1.03       2.98  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    1.11       2.92       (0.17     1.08       1.00       2.96  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

                                  (0.01

Net realized gains

          (1.11     (1.85     (0.88     (1.21     (0.75
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (1.11     (1.85     (0.88     (1.21     (0.76
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.37     $ 10.26     $ 8.45     $ 10.47     $ 10.27     $ 10.48  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return(D)

    10.82 %(E)      36.03     (1.90 )%      11.11     9.79     37.30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   173,451     $   160,612     $   112,000     $   125,108     $   89,936     $   73,806  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.02 %(F)      1.04     1.05     1.02     1.04     1.05

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.02 %(F)      1.04     1.04 %(B)      1.02     1.04 %(G)      1.05 %(G) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.03 %(F)      (0.21 )%      (0.23 )%(B)      (0.28 )%      (0.27 )%      (0.24 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    18 %(E)      50     60     32     36     41

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $21,791.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 68,434     $     $     $     $ 68,434  

Total Borrowings

  $   68,434     $     $     $     $   68,434  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Growth risk: Returns on growth stocks may not move in tandem with returns on other categories of stocks or the market as a whole. Growth stocks typically are particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect future expectations. When it appears those expectations may not be met, the prices of growth securities typically fall. Growth stocks as a group may be out of favor and underperform the overall equity market for a long period of time, for example, while the market favors “value” stocks.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

 

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.83

Over $250 million up to $500 million

     0.78  

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.73  

Over $1 billion

     0.63  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.89    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.14      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  223,700,556   $  —     $  310,878,667   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  880,951,171

  $  385,618,418   $  (10,836,078)   $  374,782,340

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Jennison Associates LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe and above its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   988.20     $   0.74     $   1,024.10     $   0.75       0.15

Service Class

    1,000.00       986.30       1.97       1,022.80       2.01       0.40  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     39.4

U.S. Equity Funds

     24.0  

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     16.3  

International Equity Funds

     12.8  

International Alternative Fund

     6.0  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.8  

U.S. Government Obligation

     0.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     0.0

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 98.5%  
International Alternative Fund - 6.0%  

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond (A) (B)

    8,515,334        $  84,301,810  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Funds - 12.8%  

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity (A) (B)

    796,321        9,778,825  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity (A) (B)

    2,508,395        26,463,568  

Transamerica International Equity (A) (B)

    4,226,171        80,339,510  

Transamerica International Growth (A) (B)

    4,996,877        43,023,108  

Transamerica International Small Cap Value (A) (B)

    1,364,400        19,142,530  
    

 

 

 
       178,747,541  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 24.0%  

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (B) (C)

    2,689,503        32,139,560  

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (B) (C)

    6,278,393        137,999,083  

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (B) (C)

    1,311,927        22,092,848  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (A) (B)

    5,034,897        63,087,256  

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities (A) (B)

    1,567,034        18,475,327  

Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP (B) (C)

    1,710,757        28,706,496  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (B) (C)

    1,007,717        32,398,105  
    

 

 

 
       334,898,675  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 39.4%  

Transamerica Core Bond (A) (B)

    15,778,539        152,262,900  

Transamerica Floating Rate (A) (B)

    4,394,695        43,419,590  

Transamerica High Yield Bond (A) (B)

    1,565,905        14,218,416  

Transamerica Intermediate Bond (A) (B)

    34,323,569        338,773,622  
    

 

 

 
         548,674,528  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 16.3%  

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (B) (C)

    20,014,106        $     227,160,099  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $1,339,930,856)

 

     1,373,782,653  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 0.7%  
U.S. Treasury - 0.7%  

U.S. Treasury Note
1.13%, 01/31/2019 (D)

    $  9,415,000        9,356,892  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $9,343,246)

 

     9,356,892  
    

 

 

 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.8%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $10,609,832 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $10,823,769.

    10,609,036        10,609,036  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $10,609,036)

 

     10,609,036  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,359,883,138)

 

     1,393,748,581  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)  - 0.0% (F)

 

     121,242  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets  - 100.0%

       $  1,393,869,823  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

CAD Currency

     Long        136        09/18/2018      $   10,507,585      $   10,357,760      $      $ (149,825

EURO STOXX 50® Index

     Short        (709      09/21/2018        (28,439,977      (28,076,470      363,507         

MSCI EAFE Mini Index

     Short        (18      09/21/2018        (1,814,858      (1,759,860      54,998         

Russell 2000® Mini Index

     Long        182        09/21/2018        15,245,194        14,992,250               (252,944

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Long        557        09/21/2018        77,470,976        75,796,560               (1,674,416

TOPIX Index

     Long        89        09/13/2018        14,272,844        13,910,897               (361,947

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long        235        09/19/2018        36,601,708        37,497,188        895,480         
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total                   $   1,313,985      $   (2,439,132
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Investment Companies

  $ 1,373,782,653     $     $     $ 1,373,782,653  

U.S. Government Obligation

          9,356,892             9,356,892  

Repurchase Agreement

          10,609,036             10,609,036  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,373,782,653     $ 19,965,928     $     $ 1,393,748,581  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION (continued):

 

Valuation Inputs (continued) (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (H)

  $ 1,313,985     $     $     $ 1,313,985  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 1,313,985     $     $     $ 1,313,985  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (H)

  $ (2,439,132   $     $     $ (2,439,132
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (2,439,132   $     $     $ (2,439,132
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds.
(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments   Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30,
2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica Core Bond   $ 169,515,827     $ 2,262,892     $ (14,684,746   $ (1,316,079   $ (3,514,994   $ 152,262,900       15,778,539     $ 2,262,892     $  
Transamerica Developing Markets Equity     43,683,241             (34,327,218     8,991,515       (8,568,713     9,778,825       796,321              
Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity           27,927,998                   (1,464,430     26,463,568       2,508,395              
Transamerica Floating Rate     7,833,748       35,919,419                   (333,577     43,419,590       4,394,695       632,972        
Transamerica High Yield Bond     88,576,986       1,172,686       (74,051,324     (320,007     (1,159,925     14,218,416       1,565,905       1,172,686        
Transamerica Intermediate Bond     357,290,464       4,761,660       (12,080,592     (249,672     (10,948,238     338,773,622       34,323,569       4,761,660        
Transamerica International Equity     85,374,754       2,367,368       (5,536,891     518,722       (2,384,443     80,339,510       4,226,171              
Transamerica International Growth     45,271,702                         (2,248,594     43,023,108       4,996,877              
Transamerica International Small Cap Value     21,984,687             (2,821,261     404,169       (425,065     19,142,530       1,364,400              
Transamerica Jennison Growth VP     33,517,377             (5,059,060     1,273,571       2,407,672       32,139,560       2,689,503              
Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP     148,001,482             (12,317,098     2,509,024       (194,325     137,999,083       6,278,393              
Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP     22,145,325                         (52,477     22,092,848       1,311,927              
Transamerica Large Cap Value     66,891,169       479,315       (4,571,228     484,217       (196,217     63,087,256       5,034,897       479,315        
Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities     22,426,596             (4,252,993     486,875       (185,151     18,475,327       1,567,034              
Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP     239,980,715             (8,488,590     (585,229     (3,746,797     227,160,099       20,014,106              
Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP     29,114,603             (2,675,914     601,963       1,665,844       28,706,496       1,710,757              
Transamerica Unconstrained Bond     22,419,935       66,383,794       (2,128,143           (2,373,776     84,301,810       8,515,334       1,260,747        
Transamerica WMC US Growth VP     34,274,471             (5,219,341     1,191,987       2,150,988       32,398,105       1,007,717              

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   1,438,303,082     $   141,275,132     $   (188,214,399   $   13,991,056     $   (31,572,218   $   1,373,782,653       118,084,540     $   10,570,272     $  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(C)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust.
(D)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $7,180,408.
(E)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(F)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(G)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(H)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATION:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $1,339,930,856)

  $ 1,373,782,653  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $9,343,246)

    9,356,892  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $10,609,036)

    10,609,036  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    5,438  

Affiliated investments sold

    4,177,705  

Interest

    44,420  

Dividends

    536,315  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    86,128  

Prepaid expenses

    4,800  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,398,603,387  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    221,630  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    1,126,021  

Affiliated investments purchased

    2,903,682  

Investment management fees

    137,212  

Distribution and service fees

    229,374  

Transfer agent costs

    3,070  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    5,443  

Audit and tax fees

    20,088  

Custody fees

    11,893  

Legal fees

    17,057  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    44,107  

Other

    13,987  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    4,733,564  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,393,869,823  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,288,318  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,264,914,984  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    30,746,010  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    64,185,862  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    33,851,797  

Unaffiliated investments

    13,646  

Futures contracts

    (1,125,147

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (5,647
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,393,869,823  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 257,483,806  

Service Class

    1,136,386,017  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    23,554,904  

Service Class

    105,276,851  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10.93  

Service Class

    10.79  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 10,570,272  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    103,348  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    10,673,620  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    871,149  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,453,305  

Transfer agent costs

    10,345  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    22,529  

Audit and tax fees

    19,174  

Custody fees

    59,344  

Legal fees

    43,845  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    23,854  

Other

    22,558  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    2,526,103  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (279

Service Class

    (1,258
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    2,524,566  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    8,149,054  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    13,991,056  

Unaffiliated investments

    15,217  

Futures contracts

    (3,953,830

Foreign currency transactions

    19,875  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    10,072,318  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (31,572,218

Unaffiliated investments

    3,115  

Futures contracts

    (5,127,186

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (12,844
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (36,709,133
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (26,636,815
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (18,487,761
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 8,149,054     $ 22,913,368  

Net realized gain (loss)

    10,072,318       52,448,700  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (36,709,133     97,755,843  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (18,487,761     173,117,911  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (5,656,429

Service Class

          (22,259,193
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (27,915,622
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (4,245,994

Service Class

          (18,938,881
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (23,184,875
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (51,100,497
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    12,387,940       19,827,678  

Service Class

    13,970,411       31,099,907  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    26,358,351       50,927,585  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          9,902,423  

Service Class

          41,198,074  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          51,100,497  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (21,920,968     (55,165,082

Service Class

    (66,539,190     (128,735,504
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (88,460,158     (183,900,586
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (62,101,807     (81,872,504
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (80,589,568     40,144,910  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,474,459,391       1,434,314,481  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,393,869,823     $   1,474,459,391  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 30,746,010     $ 22,596,956  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    1,127,713       1,845,326  

Service Class

    1,282,596       2,941,489  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,410,309       4,786,815  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          938,618  

Service Class

          3,946,176  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          4,884,794  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,984,275     (5,152,722

Service Class

    (6,102,606     (12,185,695
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (8,086,881     (17,338,417
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (856,562     (2,368,778

Service Class

    (4,820,010     (5,298,030
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (5,676,572     (7,666,808
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.06     $ 10.18     $ 10.15     $ 11.05     $ 11.30     $ 10.69  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.07       0.19       0.21 (C)       0.21       0.23       0.28  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.20     1.09       0.26       (0.42     0.02       0.70  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.13     1.28       0.47       (0.21     0.25       0.98  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.23     (0.21     (0.25     (0.31     (0.35

Net realized gains

          (0.17     (0.23     (0.44     (0.19     (0.02
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.40     (0.44     (0.69     (0.50     (0.37
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.93     $ 11.06     $ 10.18     $ 10.15     $ 11.05     $ 11.30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.18 )%(E)      12.81     4.62     (1.96 )%      2.19     9.36
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   257,484     $   270,096     $   272,589     $   293,085     $   366,775     $   429,007  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)      0.15     0.14     0.14     0.15     0.15

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)(H)(J)      0.15     0.13 %(C)      0.14     0.15     0.15

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.35 %(G)      1.77     2.09 %(C)      1.89     2.05     2.54

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    10 %(E)      7     68     51     34     33

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.94     $ 10.07     $ 10.05     $ 10.94     $ 11.19     $ 10.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.06       0.16       0.19 (C)       0.18       0.20       0.26  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.21     1.08       0.24       (0.41     0.02       0.68  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.15     1.24       0.43       (0.23     0.22       0.94  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.20     (0.18     (0.22     (0.28     (0.32

Net realized gains

          (0.17     (0.23     (0.44     (0.19     (0.02
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.37     (0.41     (0.66     (0.47     (0.34
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.79     $ 10.94     $ 10.07     $ 10.05     $ 10.94     $ 11.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.37 )%(E)      12.56     4.30     (2.14 )%      1.95     9.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,136,386     $   1,204,363     $   1,161,725     $   1,192,169     $   1,263,360     $   1,305,606  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)      0.40     0.39     0.39     0.40     0.40

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)(H)(J)      0.40     0.38 %(C)      0.39     0.40     0.40

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.10 %(G)      1.53     1.86 %(C)      1.69     1.84     2.35

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    10 %(E)      7     68     51     34     33

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation —Conservative VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of December 31, 2017, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the

 

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location  

Interest Rate

Contracts

    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ 895,480     $     $ 418,505     $     $     $ 1,313,985  

Total

  $   895,480     $   —     $   418,505     $   —     $   —     $   1,313,985  
                                                 
Liability Derivatives  
Location  

Interest Rate

Contracts

    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $ (149,825   $ (2,289,307   $     $     $ (2,439,132

Total

  $   —     $   (149,825   $   (2,289,307   $   —     $   —     $   (2,439,132
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location  

Interest Rate

Contracts

    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 2,294,091     $ 1,077,294     $ (7,325,215   $     $     $ (3,953,830

Total

  $   2,294,091     $   1,077,294     $   (7,325,215   $     $     $   (3,953,830
                                                 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location  

Interest Rate

Contracts

    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 84,552     $ (1,067,878   $ (4,143,860   $     $     $ (5,127,186

Total

  $ 84,552     $   (1,067,878   $   (4,143,860   $     $     $   (5,127,186
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
57,831,044   (137,817,871)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolios may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolios are in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolios fail to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of each Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to each Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $10 billion

     0.1225

Over $10 billion

     0.1025  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.25      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.50        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  130,704,860   $  8,853,435     $  188,214,401   $  10,837,760

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  1,359,883,138

  $  66,374,837   $  (33,634,541)   $  32,740,296

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Conservative VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation — Conservative VP (formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation — Conservative VP) (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Conservative VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 3-year periods and in line with the median for the past 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2016 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the median for its peer group and above the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Conservative VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,008.80     $   0.75     $   1,024.10     $   0.75       0.15

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,006.70       1.99       1,022.80       2.01       0.40  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     56.5

International Equity Funds

     32.1  

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     6.1  

International Alternative Fund

     3.0  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.3  

U.S. Government Obligation

     1.1  

U.S. Alternative Fund

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 97.7%  
International Alternative Fund - 3.0%  

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond (A) (B)

    3,030,831        $  30,005,223  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Funds - 32.1%  

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity (A) (B)

    1,725,623        21,190,645  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity (A) (B)

    5,448,143        57,477,904  

Transamerica International Equity (A) (B)

    6,184,350        117,564,493  

Transamerica International Growth (A) (B)

    11,470,626        98,762,088  

Transamerica International Small Cap Value (A) (B)

    2,011,224        28,217,473  
    

 

 

 
       323,212,603  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Alternative Fund - 0.0% (C)  

Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP (B) (D)

    33,384        430,318  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 56.5%  

Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP (B) (D)

    766,592        26,685,059  

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (B) (D)

    7,511,422        89,761,488  

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (B) (D)

    5,659,614        124,398,319  

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (B) (D)

    522,072        8,791,685  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (A) (B)

    12,896,534        161,593,569  

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities (A) (B)

    1,566,229        18,465,834  

Transamerica Small Cap Value (A) (B)

    1,790,747        21,095,000  

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust (B) (E) (F) (G) (H)

    3,075        1,911  

Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP (B) (D)

    1,835,570        30,800,873  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (B) (D)

    2,714,346        87,266,223  
    

 

 

 
       568,859,961  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 6.1%  

Transamerica Floating Rate (A) (B)

    3,079,728        $   30,427,716  

Transamerica High Yield Bond (A) (B)

    3,370,000        30,599,599  
    

 

 

 
       61,027,315  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $875,566,139)

 

     983,535,420  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 1.1%  
U.S. Treasury - 1.1%  

U.S. Treasury Note
1.13%, 01/31/2019 (I)

    $  11,320,000        11,250,134  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $11,233,342)

 

     11,250,134  
    

 

 

 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp.,
0.90% (J), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $12,917,304 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $13,179,175.

    12,916,335        12,916,335  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $12,916,335)

 

     12,916,335  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $899,715,816)

 

     1,007,701,889  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (635,938
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,007,065,951  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:
Description   Long/Short   Number of
Contracts
  Expiration
Date
  Notional
Amount
  Value   Unrealized
Appreciation
  Unrealized
Depreciation

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

      Short       (374 )       09/28/2018     $   (42,298,882 )     $   (42,492,828 )     $     $ (193,946 )

CAD Currency

      Long       272       09/18/2018       21,015,145       20,715,520             (299,625 )

EURO STOXX 50® Index

      Short       (521 )       09/21/2018       (20,904,419 )       (20,631,652 )       272,767      

MSCI EAFE Mini Index

      Long       193       09/21/2018       19,606,635       18,869,610             (737,025 )

Russell 2000® Mini Index

      Long       389       09/21/2018       32,584,221       32,043,875             (540,346 )

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

      Long       635       09/21/2018       88,230,861       86,410,800             (1,820,061 )

TOPIX Index

      Long       65       09/13/2018       10,425,557       10,159,644             (265,913 )
                       

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total

                        $   272,767     $   (3,856,916 )
                       

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (K)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Investment Companies

  $ 983,533,509     $     $     $ 983,533,509  

U.S. Government Obligation

          11,250,134             11,250,134  

Repurchase Agreement

          12,916,335             12,916,335  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 983,533,509     $ 24,166,469     $     $ 1,007,699,978  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Companies Measured at Net Asset Value (H)

          1,911  
       

 

 

 

Total Investments

        $ 1,007,701,889  
       

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (L)

  $ 272,767     $     $     $ 272,767  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 272,767     $     $     $ 272,767  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (L)

  $ (3,856,916   $     $     $ (3,856,916
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (3,856,916   $     $     $ (3,856,916
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.
(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments   Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30,
2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP   $ 438,998     $     $     $     $ (8,680   $ 430,318       33,384     $     $  
Transamerica Developing Markets Equity     93,477,412               (72,722,699       19,189,314         (18,753,382     21,190,645       1,725,623              
Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity             60,659,974                   (3,182,070     57,477,904       5,448,143              
Transamerica Floating Rate           32,124,426       (1,402,343     (4,228     (290,139     30,427,716       3,079,728       568,395        
Transamerica High Yield Bond     30,736,476       3,351,946       (2,602,606     17,104       (903,321     30,599,599       3,370,000         906,553        
Transamerica International Equity       126,746,960             (5,985,678     122,946       (3,319,735     117,564,493       6,184,350              
Transamerica International Growth     103,923,870                         (5,161,782     98,762,088       11,470,626              
Transamerica International Small Cap Value     33,582,950             (5,267,559     488,953       (586,871     28,217,473       2,011,224              
Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP     13,586,701       11,564,275                   1,534,083       26,685,059       766,592              
Transamerica Jennison Growth VP     92,928,414             (12,807,376     4,963,591       4,676,859       89,761,488       7,511,422              
Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP     120,326,840       2,406,440                   1,665,039         124,398,319       5,659,614              

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

Affiliated
Investments
  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30,
2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP   $ 8,812,568     $     $     $     $ (20,883   $ 8,791,685       522,072     $     $  
Transamerica Large Cap Value     165,150,183       1,210,508       (5,034,230     586,914       (319,806     161,593,569       12,896,534       1,210,508        
Transamerica Mid Cap Growth     10,231,861             (9,989,051     2,204,421       (2,447,231                        
Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities     18,246,562                         219,272       18,465,834       1,566,229              
Transamerica Small Cap Value     20,951,740                         143,260       21,095,000       1,790,747              
Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust     1,910                         1       1,911       3,075              
Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP     32,085,748             (3,774,072     1,299,566       1,189,631       30,800,873       1,835,570              
Transamerica Unconstrained Bond     30,816,565       2,794,692       (2,664,668     (7,923     (933,443     30,005,223       3,030,831       550,238        
Transamerica WMC US Growth VP     91,679,495             (12,966,261     2,863,073       5,689,916       87,266,223       2,714,346              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $   993,725,253     $   114,112,261     $   (135,216,543   $   31,723,731     $   (20,809,282   $   983,535,420       71,620,110     $   3,235,694     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(C)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(D)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.
(E)    Non-income producing security.

(F)

   Restricted security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such security held by the Portfolio is as follows:

 

Investments    Description    Acquisition
Date
     Acquisition
Cost
       Value        Value as Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Investment Companies

  

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust

     10/26/2012      $   30,750        $   1,911          0.0 %(C) 

 

(G)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $1,911 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(H)    Certain investments are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share, or its equivalent, practical expedient and have not been classified in the fair value levels. The fair value amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the Total Investments amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.
(I)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $9,312,169.
(J)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(K)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(L)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar
EUR    Euro

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $875,566,139)

  $ 983,535,420  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $11,233,342)

    11,250,134  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $12,916,335)

    12,916,335  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    60,626  

Affiliated investments sold

    2,206,253  

Interest

    53,415  

Dividends

    367,865  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    1,230,818  

Prepaid expenses

    3,681  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,011,624,547  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    1,372,113  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    160,436  

Affiliated investments purchased

    2,774,305  

Investment management fees

    100,903  

Distribution and service fees

    57,814  

Transfer agent costs

    1,964  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    3,716  

Audit and tax fees

    15,726  

Custody fees

    7,852  

Legal fees

    9,763  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    44,816  

Other

    9,188  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    4,558,596  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,007,065,951  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 734,595  

Additional paid-in capital

    787,292,951  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    20,268,737  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    94,367,409  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    107,969,281  

Unaffiliated investments

    16,792  

Futures contracts

    (3,584,149

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    335  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,007,065,951  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 722,976,335  

Service Class

    284,089,616  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    52,590,557  

Service Class

    20,868,957  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 13.75  

Service Class

    13.61  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 3,235,694  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    118,186  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    3,353,880  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    632,591  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    364,251  

Transfer agent costs

    7,356  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    16,181  

Audit and tax fees

    15,333  

Custody fees

    39,048  

Legal fees

    30,037  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    26,659  

Other

    15,867  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1,147,323  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (26

Service Class

    (10
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    1,147,287  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,206,593  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    31,723,731  

Unaffiliated investments

    14,223  

Futures contracts

    2,890,328  

Foreign currency transactions

    (6,699
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    34,621,583  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (20,809,282

Unaffiliated investments

    7,176  

Futures contracts

    (7,207,948

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    5,139  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (28,004,915
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    6,616,668  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 8,823,261  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,206,593     $ 18,163,365  

Net realized gain (loss)

    34,621,583       60,444,219  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (28,004,915     133,771,018  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    8,823,261       212,378,602  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (10,080,915

Service Class

          (3,408,955
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (13,489,870
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (15,223,907

Service Class

          (6,086,496
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (21,310,403
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (34,800,273
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    7,608,496       22,867,317  

Service Class

    5,978,416       22,849,168  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    13,586,912       45,716,485  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          25,304,822  

Service Class

          9,495,451  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          34,800,273  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (40,527,693     (67,565,872

Service Class

    (20,927,579     (35,316,000
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (61,455,272     (102,881,872
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (47,868,360     (22,365,114
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (39,045,099     155,213,215  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,046,111,050       890,897,835  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,007,065,951     $   1,046,111,050  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 20,268,737     $ 18,062,144  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    545,692       1,812,875  

Service Class

    431,968       1,845,539  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    977,660       3,658,414  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          2,042,359  

Service Class

          772,616  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,814,975  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (2,918,312     (5,382,268

Service Class

    (1,521,258     (2,825,664
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (4,439,570     (8,207,932
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (2,372,620     (1,527,034

Service Class

    (1,089,290     (207,509
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,461,910     (1,734,543
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.63     $ 11.35     $ 10.93     $ 11.34     $ 11.30     $ 9.02  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.03       0.24       0.17 (C)       0.21       0.17       0.26  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.09       2.51       0.49       (0.43     0.14       2.14  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.12       2.75       0.66       (0.22     0.31       2.40  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.19     (0.24     (0.19     (0.27     (0.12

Net realized gains

          (0.28                        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.47     (0.24     (0.19     (0.27     (0.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.75     $ 13.63     $ 11.35     $ 10.93     $ 11.34     $ 11.30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    0.88 %(E)      24.63     6.08     (1.93 )%      2.73     26.81
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   722,976     $   749,311     $   641,284     $   671,549     $   830,809     $   882,269  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)      0.15     0.15     0.14     0.15     0.15

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)(H)      0.15 %(H)      0.14 %(C)      0.14     0.15     0.15

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.50 %(G)      1.94     1.58 %(C)      1.82     1.48     2.56

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    12 %(E)      8     93     51     64     20

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.52     $ 11.26     $ 10.84     $ 11.24     $ 11.21     $ 8.96  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.02       0.21       0.14 (C)       0.19       0.14       0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.07       2.49       0.49       (0.43     0.13       2.12  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.09       2.70       0.63       (0.24     0.27       2.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.16     (0.21     (0.16     (0.24     (0.10

Net realized gains

          (0.28                        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.44     (0.21     (0.16     (0.24     (0.10
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.61     $ 13.52     $ 11.26     $ 10.84     $ 11.24     $ 11.21  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    0.67 %(E)      24.37     5.82     (2.12 )%      2.44     26.39
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   284,090     $   296,800     $   249,614     $   270,730     $   300,247     $   298,714  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)      0.40     0.40     0.39     0.40     0.40

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)(H)      0.40 %(H)      0.39 %(C)      0.39     0.40     0.40

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.25 %(G)      1.69     1.33 %(C)      1.63     1.26     2.32

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    12 %(E)      8     93     51     64     20

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Effective January 12, 2018, Transamerica Asset Allocation — Growth VP changed its name to Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation — Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Portfolio is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Restricted securities: Restricted securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Portfolio’s Board. Restricted securities issued by publicly traded companies are generally valued at a discount to similar publicly traded securities. Restricted securities issued by nonpublic entities may be valued by reference to comparable public entities and/or fundamental data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $     $ 272,767     $     $     $ 272,767  

Total

  $     $     $ 272,767     $     $     $   272,767  
                                                 

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ (193,946   $ (299,625   $ (3,363,345   $     $     $ (3,856,916

Total

  $ (193,946   $ (299,625   $   (3,363,345   $     $     $   (3,856,916
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 763,929     $ 489,144     $ 1,637,255     $     $     $ 2,890,328  

Total

  $ 763,929     $ 489,144     $   1,637,255     $     $     $   2,890,328  
                                                 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ (290,133   $ (1,242,020   $ (5,675,795   $     $     $ (7,207,948

Total

  $ (290,133   $   (1,242,020   $   (5,675,795   $     $     $   (7,207,948
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
33,979,236   (33,791,187)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $10 billion

     0.1225

Over $10 billion

     0.1025  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.25      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.50        May 1, 2019  

 

(A)   TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

 

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  110,876,568   $  10,307,391     $  135,216,543   $  10,133,306

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities for the three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  899,715,816

  $  112,628,769   $  (8,226,844)   $  104,401,925

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables — Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP (formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Growth VP) (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods and below the median for the past 10-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its benchmark for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2016 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   999.30     $   0.74     $   1,024.10     $   0.75       0.15

Service Class

    1,000.00       997.70       1.98       1,022.80       2.01       0.40  
(A)   5% return per year before expenses.
(B)   Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)   Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     48.5

International Equity Funds

     23.3  

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     14.7  

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     5.8  

International Alternative Funds

     4.2  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.9  

U.S. Alternative Fund

     1.0  

U.S. Government Obligation

     0.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 97.5%  
International Alternative Funds - 4.2%  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust (A) (B) (C) (D) (E)

    70,452        $  380,208  

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond (D) (F)

    21,602,220        213,861,983  
    

 

 

 
       214,242,191  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Funds - 23.3%  

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity (D) (F)

    5,058,970        62,124,146  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity (D) (F)

    15,967,828        168,460,583  

Transamerica International Equity (D) (F)

    25,590,618        486,477,644  

Transamerica International Growth (D) (F)

    41,427,134        356,687,626  

Transamerica International Small Cap Value (D) (F)

    9,112,213        127,844,351  
    

 

 

 
       1,201,594,350  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Alternative Fund - 1.0%  

Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP (D) (G)

    4,175,559        53,822,950  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 48.5%  

Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP (D) (G)

    4,673,580        162,687,313  

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (D) (G)

    22,519,771        269,111,266  

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (D) (G)

    39,697,837        872,558,451  

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (D) (F)

    5,561,242        93,651,316  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (D) (F)

    41,307,114        517,578,139  

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities (D) (F)

    7,101,935        83,731,811  

Transamerica Small Cap Value (D) (F)

    6,965,565        82,054,351  

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust (A) (B) (C) (D) (E)

    16,244        10,095  

Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP (D) (G)

    8,436,714        141,568,062  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (D) (G)

    8,485,868        272,820,666  
    

 

 

 
       2,495,771,470  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 14.7%  

Transamerica Core Bond (D) (F)

    12,877,539        $   124,268,248  

Transamerica Floating Rate (D) (F)

    11,041,100        109,086,069  

Transamerica High Yield Bond (D) (F)

    22,020,558        199,946,668  

Transamerica Intermediate Bond (D) (F)

    32,711,265        322,860,184  
    

 

 

 
       756,161,169  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 5.8%  

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (D) (G)

    26,097,627        296,208,067  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $4,522,534,712)

 

     5,017,800,197  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 0.7%  
U.S. Treasury - 0.7%  

U.S. Treasury Note
1.13%, 01/31/2019 (H)

    $  37,318,000        37,087,678  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $37,027,767)

 

     37,087,678  
    

 

 

 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.9%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (I), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $97,760,229 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 0.13% - 1.75%, due 04/15/2022 - 05/31/2022, and with a total value of $99,712,638.

    97,752,898        97,752,898  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $97,752,898)

 

     97,752,898  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $4,657,315,377)

 

     5,152,640,773  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (3,863,409
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  5,148,777,364  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

CAD Currency

     Long       970       09/18/2018     $ 74,943,237     $ 73,875,200     $     $ (1,068,037

EURO STOXX 50® Index

     Short       (2,641     09/21/2018         (105,928,613       (104,583,860     1,344,753        

MSCI EAFE Mini Index

     Long       416       09/21/2018       42,261,061       40,672,320             (1,588,741

Russell 2000® Mini Index

     Long       393       09/21/2018       32,867,977       32,373,375             (494,602

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Long       2,198       09/21/2018       305,716,751       299,103,840             (6,612,911

TOPIX Index

     Long       329       09/13/2018       52,767,518       51,423,429             (1,344,089

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long       866       09/19/2018       134,881,492       138,181,125       3,299,633        
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

             $   4,644,386     $   (11,108,380
            

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (J)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Investment Companies

  $ 5,017,409,894     $     $     $ 5,017,409,894  

U.S. Government Obligation

          37,087,678             37,087,678  

Repurchase Agreement

          97,752,898             97,752,898  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 5,017,409,894     $ 134,840,576     $     $ 5,152,250,470  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Companies Measured at Net Asset Value (E)

          390,303  
       

 

 

 

Total Investments

        $ 5,152,640,773  
       

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (K)

  $ 4,644,386     $     $     $ 4,644,386  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 4,644,386     $     $     $ 4,644,386  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (K)

  $ (11,108,380   $     $     $ (11,108,380
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (11,108,380   $     $     $ (11,108,380
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $390,303 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    Restricted securities. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities held by the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Investments    Description    Acquisition
Date
     Acquisition
Cost
       Value        Value as Percentage of
Net Assets
 

Investment Companies

  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust

     07/31/2014      $ 724,839        $ 380,208          0.0 %(L) 

Investment Companies

  

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust

     10/26/2012        162,437          10,095          0.0 (L)  
        

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

         $   887,276        $   390,303          0.0 %(L) 
        

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

(D)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30,
2018
    Shares as of
June 30,
2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Clarion Global Real Estate Securities VP

  $ 54,908,595     $     $     $     $ (1,085,645   $ 53,822,950       4,175,559     $     $  

Transamerica Core Bond

    174,498,443       11,620,175       (57,053,861     (1,170,906     (3,625,603     124,268,248       12,877,539       2,029,487        

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity

    266,302,469             (205,930,450     55,398,029       (53,645,902     62,124,146       5,058,970              

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity

          177,788,014                   (9,327,431     168,460,583       15,967,828              

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

Affiliated Investments
(continued)

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30,
2018
    Shares as of
June 30,
2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Floating Rate

  $ 181,301,500     $ 18,962,515     $ (90,632,883   $ 88,169     $ (633,232   $ 109,086,069       11,041,100     $ 3,286,490     $  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust

    393,277                         (13,069     380,208       70,452              

Transamerica High Yield Bond

    278,002,170       86,453,508       (158,683,353     (9,630,573     3,804,916       199,946,668       22,020,558       6,216,591        

Transamerica Intermediate Bond

    331,325,198       27,010,650       (24,823,437     (477,479     (10,174,748     322,860,184       32,711,265       4,559,713        

Transamerica International Equity

    529,662,290             (30,870,780     7,342,040       (19,655,906     486,477,644       25,590,618              

Transamerica International Growth

    390,804,108             (16,157,462     1,263,902       (19,222,922     356,687,626       41,427,134              

Transamerica International Small Cap Value

    139,519,241             (11,816,837     2,965,337       (2,823,390     127,844,351       9,112,213              

Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

    81,965,634       71,539,866                   9,181,813       162,687,313       4,673,580              

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

    255,301,852             (13,996,458     5,964,889       21,840,983       269,111,266       22,519,771              

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

    887,746,103             (28,143,325     5,908,284       7,047,389       872,558,451       39,697,837              

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

    93,873,766                         (222,450     93,651,316       5,561,242              

Transamerica Large Cap Value

    512,421,759       3,877,213                   1,279,167       517,578,139       41,307,114       3,877,212        

Transamerica Mid Cap Growth

    87,874,368             (85,789,280     16,134,036       (18,219,124                        

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities

    82,737,541                         994,270       83,731,811       7,101,935              

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

    304,746,963       20,071,299       (22,980,091     (688,357     (4,941,747     296,208,067       26,097,627              

Transamerica Small Cap Value

    81,497,106                         557,245       82,054,351       6,965,565              

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust

    10,091                         4       10,095       16,244              

Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

    138,649,778             (7,811,164     2,941,748       7,787,700       141,568,062       8,436,714              

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond

    77,666,114       142,083,767                   (5,887,898     213,861,983       21,602,220       3,194,147        

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

    255,797,623             (8,164,325     1,925,124       23,262,244       272,820,666       8,485,868              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   5,207,005,989     $   559,407,007     $   (762,853,706   $   87,964,243     $   (73,723,336   $   5,017,800,197       372,518,953     $   23,163,640     $   —  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(E)    Certain investments are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share, or its equivalent, practical expedient and have not been classified in the fair value levels. The fair value amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the Total Investments amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.
(F)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds.
(G)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust.
(H)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $27,944,459.
(I)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(J)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(K)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).
(L)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar
EUR    Euro

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $4,522,534,712)

   $ 5,017,800,197  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $37,027,767)

     37,087,678  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $97,752,898)

     97,752,898  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Interest

     178,850  

Dividends

     2,117,872  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

     2,840,261  

Prepaid expenses

     18,435  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     5,157,796,191  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Due to custodian

     4,611,987  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     600,546  

Affiliated investments purchased

     2,117,872  

Investment management fees

     510,442  

Distribution and service fees

     838,075  

Transfer agent costs

     10,494  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     19,296  

Audit and tax fees

     53,284  

Custody fees

     26,449  

Legal fees

     52,445  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     129,615  

Other

     48,322  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     9,018,827  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   5,148,777,364  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 3,880,755  

Additional paid-in capital

     4,225,666,591  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     101,945,748  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     328,435,064  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     495,265,485  

Unaffiliated investments

     59,911  

Futures contracts

     (6,463,994

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

     (12,196
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 5,148,777,364  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 1,009,417,176  

Service Class

     4,139,360,188  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     75,175,161  

Service Class

     312,900,377  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 13.43  

Service Class

     13.23  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income from affiliated investments

   $ 23,163,640  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

     640,108  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     23,803,748  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     3,216,586  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     5,278,421  

Transfer agent costs

     37,793  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     82,781  

Audit and tax fees

     51,018  

Custody fees

     132,823  

Legal fees

     154,545  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     75,356  

Other

     78,271  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     9,107,594  
  

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

  

Initial Class

     (254

Service Class

     (1,043
  

 

 

 

Net expenses

     9,106,297  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     14,697,451  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     87,964,243  

Unaffiliated investments

     79,662  

Futures contracts

     (11,719,907

Foreign currency transactions

     (163,785
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

     76,160,213  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     (73,723,336

Unaffiliated investments

     12,006  

Futures contracts

     (24,745,084

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

     (64,817
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (98,521,231
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     (22,361,018
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   (7,663,567
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 14,697,451     $ 88,452,086  

Net realized gain (loss)

    76,160,213       254,724,687  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (98,521,231     563,415,527  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (7,663,567     906,592,300  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (17,280,522

Service Class

          (62,222,905
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (79,503,427
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (33,510,254

Service Class

          (138,841,610
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (172,351,864
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (251,855,291
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    9,267,641       24,056,052  

Service Class

    27,330,385       94,579,678  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    36,598,026       118,635,730  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          50,790,776  

Service Class

          201,064,515  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          251,855,291  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (51,767,552     (110,998,727

Service Class

    (211,949,507     (287,990,458
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (263,717,059     (398,989,185
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (227,119,033     (28,498,164
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (234,782,600     626,238,845  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    5,383,559,964       4,757,321,119  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   5,148,777,364     $   5,383,559,964  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 101,945,748     $ 87,248,297  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    679,763       1,882,612  

Service Class

    2,035,176       7,537,278  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,714,939       9,419,890  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          4,092,730  

Service Class

          16,413,430  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          20,506,160  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (3,811,720     (8,710,316

Service Class

    (15,849,283     (22,904,156
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (19,661,003     (31,614,472
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (3,131,957     (2,734,974

Service Class

    (13,814,107     1,046,552  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (16,946,064     (1,688,422
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.44     $ 11.82     $ 11.96     $ 12.74     $ 12.76     $ 10.94  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.05       0.25       0.22 (C)       0.23       0.27       0.34  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.06     2.04       0.56       (0.51     0.06       1.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.01     2.29       0.78       (0.28     0.33       2.10  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.23     (0.25     (0.29     (0.35     (0.28

Net realized gains

          (0.44     (0.67     (0.21            
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.67     (0.92     (0.50     (0.35     (0.28
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.43     $ 13.44     $ 11.82     $ 11.96     $ 12.74     $ 12.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.07 )%(E)      19.77     6.55     (2.23 )%      2.57     19.38
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,009,417     $   1,052,378     $   957,703     $   998,156     $   1,240,441     $   1,340,215  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)      0.14     0.14     0.14     0.15     0.14

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)(H)(J)      0.14 %(H)      0.13 %(C)      0.14     0.15     0.14

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.76 %(G)      1.93     1.89 %(C)      1.81     2.09     2.84

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    11 %(E)      4     70     26     35     27

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.26     $ 11.67     $ 11.82     $ 12.60     $ 12.61     $ 10.82  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.03       0.21       0.19 (C)       0.20       0.23       0.31  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.06     2.02       0.55       (0.52     0.08       1.73  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.03     2.23       0.74       (0.32     0.31       2.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.20     (0.22     (0.25     (0.32     (0.25

Net realized gains

          (0.44     (0.67     (0.21            
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.64     (0.89     (0.46     (0.32     (0.25
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.23     $ 13.26     $ 11.67     $ 11.82     $ 12.60     $ 12.61  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.23 )%(E)      19.49     6.25     (2.52 )%      2.45     19.04
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   4,139,360     $   4,331,182     $   3,799,618     $   3,856,895     $   4,124,411     $   4,236,224  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)      0.39     0.39     0.39     0.40     0.39

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)(H)(J)      0.39 %(H)      0.38 %(C)      0.39     0.40     0.39

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.51 %(G)      1.69     1.66 %(C)      1.62     1.86     2.67

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    11 %(E)      4     70     26     35     27

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP (formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP) (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the year, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Restricted securities: Restricted securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Portfolio’s Board. Restricted securities issued by publicly traded companies are generally valued at a discount to similar publicly traded securities. Restricted securities issued by nonpublic entities may be valued by reference to comparable public entities and/or fundamental data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ 3,299,633     $     $ 1,344,753     $     $     $ 4,644,386  

Total

  $ 3,299,633     $     $ 1,344,753     $     $     $ 4,644,386  
                                                 

Liability Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $ (1,068,037   $ (10,040,343   $     $     $ (11,108,380

Total

  $     $   (1,068,037   $   (10,040,343   $     $     $   (11,108,380
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported within the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 9,096,664     $ 3,357,747     $ (24,174,318   $     $     $ (11,719,907

Total

  $   9,096,664     $   3,357,747     $   (24,174,318   $     $     $   (11,719,907
                                                 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ (344,158   $ (5,312,377   $ (19,088,549   $     $     $ (24,745,084

Total

  $ (344,158   $   (5,312,377   $   (19,088,549   $     $     $   (24,745,084
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long    Short
275,484,821    (630,706,821)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $10 billion

     0.1225

Over $10 billion

     0.1025  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.25    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.50      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  536,243,366   $  39,192,791     $  762,853,706   $  54,207,832

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost    Gross
Appreciation
   Gross
(Depreciation)
   Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  4,657,315,377    $  534,367,814    $  (45,506,412)    $  488,861,402

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation — Moderate Growth VP (formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation — Moderate Growth VP) (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 3-year periods and below the median for the past 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2016 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account
Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   996.00     $   0.74     $   1,024.10     $   0.75       0.15

Service Class

    1,000.00       995.20       1.98       1,022.80       2.01       0.40  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     36.6

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     26.9  

International Equity Funds

     17.2  

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     10.8  

International Alternative Funds

     5.1  

Repurchase Agreement

     2.8  

U.S. Government Obligation

     0.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

  

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 96.6%  
International Alternative Funds - 5.1%  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust (A) (B) (C) (D) (E)

    36,728        $  198,209  

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond (D) (F)

    31,985,612        316,657,556  
    

 

 

 
       316,855,765  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Funds - 17.2%  

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity (D) (F)

    4,787,180        58,786,573  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity (D) (F)

    15,101,810        159,324,100  

Transamerica International Equity (D) (F)

    23,909,365        454,517,038  

Transamerica International Growth (D) (F)

    34,695,351        298,726,970  

Transamerica International Small Cap Value (D) (F)

    8,013,185        112,424,980  
    

 

 

 
       1,083,779,661  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 36.6%  

Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP (D) (G)

    4,685,403        163,098,867  

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (D) (G)

    22,324,773        266,781,042  

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (D) (G)

    34,733,585        763,444,192  

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (D) (G)

    3,489,327        58,760,267  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (D) (F)

    40,576,066        508,418,106  

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities (D) (F)

    8,215,217        96,857,411  

Transamerica Small Cap Value (D) (F)

    5,329,173        62,777,653  

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust (A) (B) (C) (D) (E)

    5,959        3,704  

Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP (D) (G)

    7,964,927        133,651,480  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (D) (G)

    7,727,529        248,440,055  
    

 

 

 
       2,302,232,777  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 26.9%  

Transamerica Core Bond (D) (F)

    39,231,175        378,580,840  

Transamerica Floating Rate (D) (F)

    16,140,570        159,468,836  
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Fixed Income Funds (continued)  

Transamerica High Yield Bond (D) (F)

    22,730,530        $   206,393,217  

Transamerica Intermediate Bond (D) (F)

    95,982,786        947,350,101  
    

 

 

 
       1,691,792,994  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 10.8%  

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (D) (G)

    60,038,099        681,432,420  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $5,697,446,056)

 

     6,076,093,617  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 0.7%  
U.S. Treasury - 0.7%  

U.S. Treasury Note
1.13%, 01/31/2019 (H)

    $  44,076,000        43,803,968  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $43,732,065)

 

     43,803,968  
    

 

 

 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 2.8%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (I), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $175,442,519 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $178,940,211.

    175,429,362        175,429,362  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $175,429,362)

 

     175,429,362  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $5,916,607,483)

 

     6,295,326,947  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

 

     (5,319,250
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  6,290,007,697  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                               
Description   Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

CAD Currency

    Long        779        09/18/2018      $ 60,186,635     $ 59,328,640     $     $ (857,995

EURO STOXX 50® Index

    Short        (3,203      09/21/2018          (128,456,562       (126,839,116     1,617,446        

MSCI EAFE Mini Index

    Long        223        09/21/2018        22,652,676       21,802,710             (849,966

Russell 2000® Mini Index

    Long        658        09/21/2018        55,030,863       54,202,750             (828,113

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long        2,791        09/21/2018        388,199,683       379,799,280             (8,400,403

TOPIX Index

    Long        400        09/13/2018        64,147,409       62,520,887             (1,626,522

U.S. Treasury Bond

    Long        1,174        09/19/2018        182,852,838       187,326,375       4,473,537        
              

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

               $   6,090,983     $   (12,562,999
              

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (J)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Investment Companies

  $ 6,075,891,704     $     $     $ 6,075,891,704  

U.S. Government Obligation

          43,803,968             43,803,968  

Repurchase Agreement

          175,429,362             175,429,362  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $ 6,075,891,704     $ 219,233,330     $     $ 6,295,125,034  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Companies Measured at Net Asset Value (E)

          201,913  
       

 

 

 

Total Investments

        $ 6,295,326,947  
       

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

       

Futures Contracts (K)

  $ 6,090,983     $     $     $ 6,090,983  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 6,090,983     $     $     $ 6,090,983  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

       

Other Financial Instruments

       

Futures Contracts (K)

  $ (12,562,999   $     $     $ (12,562,999
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (12,562,999   $     $     $ (12,562,999
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.

(B)

   Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $201,913 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.

(C)

   Restricted securities. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities held by the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Investments    Description    Acquisition
Date
     Acquisition
Cost
       Value        Value as Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Investment Companies

  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust

     07/31/2014      $ 377,870        $ 198,209          0.0 %(L) 

Investment Companies

  

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust

     10/26/2012        59,594          3,704          0.0 (L)  
        

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

         $   437,464        $   201,913          0.0 %(L) 
        

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

(D)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated
Investments
  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares
as of
June 30,
2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Core Bond

  $   421,467,081     $   32,051,880     $   (62,644,268   $   (5,187,511   $   (7,106,342   $   378,580,840       39,231,175     $   5,664,932     $   —  

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity

    257,678,783             (201,016,348     53,635,215       (51,511,077     58,786,573       4,787,180              

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity

          168,143,995                   (8,819,895     159,324,100       15,101,810              

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

Affiliated
Investments
(continued)
  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares
as of
June 30,
2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Floating Rate

  $   112,486,827     $   48,039,130     $   —     $   —     $   (1,057,121   $   159,468,836       16,140,570     $   3,154,320     $   —  

Transamerica Global Allocation Liquidating Trust

    205,021                         (6,812     198,209       36,728              

Transamerica High Yield Bond

    360,722,983       7,521,576       (153,965,097     (7,440,040     (446,205     206,393,217       22,730,530       7,521,576        

Transamerica Intermediate Bond

    968,695,826       56,525,023       (46,941,693     (248,171     (30,680,884     947,350,101       95,982,786       13,274,024        

Transamerica International Equity

    475,124,065       17,564,198       (27,547,871     2,671,553       (13,294,907     454,517,038       23,909,365              

Transamerica International Growth

    337,612,517             (24,300,128     3,906,039       (18,491,458     298,726,970       34,695,351              

Transamerica International Small Cap Value

    128,272,861             (16,222,608     4,466,063       (4,091,336     112,424,980       8,013,185              

Transamerica Janus Mid-Cap Growth VP

    94,408,831       58,992,579                   9,697,457       163,098,867       4,685,403              

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP

    256,478,503             (17,589,656     7,278,970       20,613,225       266,781,042       22,324,773              

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

    773,577,732             (21,653,348     4,633,753       6,886,055       763,444,192       34,733,585              

Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

    58,899,840                         (139,573     58,760,267       3,489,327              

Transamerica Large Cap Value

    512,459,079       3,808,594       (9,448,485     1,182,314       416,604       508,418,106       40,576,066       3,808,594        

Transamerica Mid Cap Growth

    65,570,555             (64,014,336     7,814,770       (9,370,989                        

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities

    95,707,281                         1,150,130       96,857,411       8,215,217              

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

    697,978,827       30,742,472       (34,454,655     (2,181,436     (10,652,788     681,432,420       60,038,099              

Transamerica Small Cap Value

    62,351,319                         426,334       62,777,653       5,329,173              

Transamerica Small Company Growth Liquidating Trust

    3,702                         2       3,704       5,959              

Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

    133,539,146             (9,846,542     1,952,392       8,006,484       133,651,480       7,964,927              

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

Affiliated
Investments
  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares
as of
June 30,
2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Unconstrained
Bond

  $   98,653,378     $   226,850,152     $   —     $   —     $   (8,845,974   $   316,657,556       31,985,612     $   4,731,328     $  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

    256,319,221             (33,029,748     7,909,648       17,240,934       248,440,055       7,727,529              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   6,168,213,378     $   650,239,599     $   (722,674,783   $   80,393,559     $   (100,078,136   $   6,076,093,617       487,704,350     $   38,154,774     $   —  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(E)    Certain investments are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share, or its equivalent, practical expedient and have not been classified in the fair value levels. The fair value amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the Total Investments amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.
(F)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds.
(G)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust.
(H)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $32,474,328.
(I)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(J)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(K)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).
(L)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar
EUR    Euro

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $5,697,446,056)

  $ 6,076,093,617  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $43,732,065)

    43,803,968  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $175,429,362)

    175,429,362  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    1,493,577  

Affiliated investments sold

    20,707,267  

Interest

    214,236  

Dividends

    2,711,259  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    2,810,131  

Prepaid expenses

    21,262  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    6,323,284,679  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    10,523,943  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    317,569  

Affiliated investments purchased

    20,275,457  

Investment management fees

    617,850  

Distribution and service fees

    1,142,231  

Transfer agent costs

    12,751  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    22,348  

Audit and tax fees

    63,273  

Custody fees

    29,657  

Legal fees

    68,140  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    144,524  

Other

    59,239  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    33,276,982  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   6,290,007,697  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 5,068,644  

Additional paid-in capital

    5,424,348,310  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    126,578,694  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    361,779,525  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    378,647,561  

Unaffiliated investments

    71,903  

Futures contracts

    (6,472,016

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (14,924
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 6,290,007,697  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $   603,846,945  

Service Class

    5,686,160,752  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    48,021,761  

Service Class

    458,842,669  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $   12.57  

Service Class

    12.39  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 38,154,774  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    760,182  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    38,914,956  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    3,840,515  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    7,067,572  

Transfer agent costs

    44,879  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    98,438  

Audit and tax fees

    59,915  

Custody fees

    150,735  

Legal fees

    187,606  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    83,579  

Other

    96,921  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    11,630,160  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (464

Service Class

    (4,286
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    11,625,410  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    27,289,546  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    80,393,559  

Unaffiliated investments

    73,424  

Futures contracts

    (10,698,696

Foreign currency transactions

    (241,190
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    69,527,097  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (100,078,136

Unaffiliated investments

    25,622  

Futures contracts

    (25,117,407

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (44,639
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (125,214,560
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (55,687,463
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (28,397,917
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 27,289,546     $ 100,700,616  

Net realized gain (loss)

    69,527,097       283,088,708  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (125,214,560     545,693,701  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (28,397,917     929,483,025  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (11,531,534

Service Class

          (92,399,442
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (103,930,976
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (13,727,304

Service Class

          (126,049,116
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (139,776,420
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (243,707,396
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    8,211,792       14,876,902  

Service Class

    94,772,325       27,897,961  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    102,984,117       42,774,863  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          25,258,838  

Service Class

          218,448,558  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          243,707,396  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (37,074,294     (85,199,135

Service Class

    (137,415,416     (473,004,464
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (174,489,710     (558,203,599
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (71,505,593     (271,721,340
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (99,903,510     414,054,289  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    6,389,911,207       5,975,856,918  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   6,290,007,697     $   6,389,911,207  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 126,578,694     $ 99,289,148  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    644,098       1,232,004  

Service Class

    7,616,363       2,369,767  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    8,260,461       3,601,771  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          2,133,348  

Service Class

          18,686,788  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          20,820,136  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (2,928,598     (7,109,415

Service Class

    (10,948,755     (39,688,931
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (13,877,353     (46,798,346
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (2,284,500     (3,744,063

Service Class

    (3,332,392     (18,632,376
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (5,616,892     (22,376,439
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.62     $ 11.30     $ 11.22     $ 12.17     $ 12.10     $ 10.93  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.07       0.22       0.22 (C)       0.24       0.26       0.32  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.12     1.61       0.40       (0.52     0.09       1.14  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.05     1.83       0.62       (0.28     0.35       1.46  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.23     (0.25     (0.25     (0.28     (0.29

Net realized gains

          (0.28     (0.29     (0.42            
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.51     (0.54     (0.67     (0.28     (0.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.57     $ 12.62     $ 11.30     $ 11.22     $ 12.17     $ 12.10  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.40 )%(E)      16.47     5.56     (2.23 )%      2.77     13.50
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   603,847     $   634,841     $   610,851     $   642,102     $   838,875     $   917,763  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)      0.14     0.14     0.14     0.14     0.14

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.15 %(G)(H)      0.14     0.13 %(C)      0.14     0.14     0.14

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.09 %(G)      1.84     1.96 %(C)      1.97     2.10     2.74

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    11 %(E)      3     63     33     22     25

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.45     $ 11.16     $ 11.09     $ 12.03     $ 11.97     $ 10.82  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.05       0.19       0.19 (C)       0.21       0.24       0.31  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.11     1.58       0.39       (0.51     0.07       1.10  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.06     1.77       0.58       (0.30     0.31       1.41  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.20     (0.22     (0.22     (0.25     (0.26

Net realized gains

          (0.28     (0.29     (0.42            
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.48     (0.51     (0.64     (0.25     (0.26
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.39     $ 12.45     $ 11.16     $ 11.09     $ 12.03     $ 11.97  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.48 )%(E)       16.12     5.26     (2.48 )%      2.61     13.23
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   5,686,161     $   5,755,070     $   5,365,006     $   5,536,501     $   5,880,534     $   4,730,918  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)      0.39     0.39     0.39     0.39     0.39

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.40 %(G)(H)      0.39     0.38 %(C)      0.39     0.39     0.39

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.85 %(G)      1.60     1.72 %(C)      1.79     1.97     2.69

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    11 %(E)      3     63     33     22     25

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Effective January 12, 2018, Transamerica Asset Allocation—Moderate VP changed its name to Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation—Moderate VP (the “Portfolio”). The Portfolio is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Restricted securities: Restricted securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Portfolio’s Board. Restricted securities issued by publicly traded companies are generally valued at a discount to similar publicly traded securities. Restricted securities issued by nonpublic entities may be valued by reference to comparable public entities and/or fundamental data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ 4,473,537     $     $ 1,617,446     $     $     $ 6,090,983  

Total

  $   4,473,537     $     $   1,617,446     $     $     $ 6,090,983  
                                                 

Liability Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $ (857,995   $ (11,705,004   $     $     $ (12,562,999

Total

  $     $   (857,995   $   (11,705,004   $     $     $   (12,562,999
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 10,093,636     $ 4,433,951     $ (25,226,283   $     $     $ (10,698,696

Total

  $   10,093,636     $ 4,433,951     $   (25,226,283   $     $     $   (10,698,696
                                                 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 400,528     $ (5,191,407   $ (20,326,528   $     $     $ (25,117,407

Total

  $ 400,528     $   (5,191,407   $ (20,326,528   $     $     $ (25,117,407
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount
Long   Short
292,322,579   (700,734,030)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. is the sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $10 billion

     0.1225

Over $10 billion

     0.1025  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.25    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.50      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate

Initial Class

   0.15%

Service Class

   0.25

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

 

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

       

Sales of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government          Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  612,084,825   $  40,729,242     $  722,674,783   $  60,200,424

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost    Gross
Appreciation
   Gross
(Depreciation)
   Net
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  5,916,607,483    $  475,466,192    $  (103,218,744)    $  372,247,448

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation — Moderate VP (formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation — Moderate VP) (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 3-year periods and below the median for the past 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2016 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

(formerly, Transamerica Asset Allocation – Moderate VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   983.80     $   2.51     $   1,022.30     $   2.56       0.51

Service Class

    1,000.00       983.30       3.74       1,021.00       3.81       0.76  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     7.47  

Duration †

     5.67  
Credit Quality ‡    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Government and Agency Securities

     53.6

AAA

     8.8  

AA

     5.1  

A

     10.8  

BBB

     14.0  

BB

     0.1  

B

     0.0

CCC and Below

     0.0

Not Rated

     10.3  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (2.7

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

Credit quality represents a percentage of net assets at the end of the reporting period. Ratings BBB or higher are considered investment grade. Not rated securities do not necessarily indicate low credit quality, and may or may not be equivalent of investment grade. The table reflects Standard and Poor’s (“S&P”) ratings; percentages may include investments not rated by S&P but rated by Moody’s, or if unrated by Moody’s, by Fitch ratings, and then included in the closest equivalent S&P rating. Credit ratings are subject to change. The Portfolio itself has not been rated by an independent agency.

 

*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 14.5%  

Ally Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A4,
1.60%, 01/15/2021

    $  250,000        $  247,486  

American Credit Acceptance Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-3, Class C,

    

4.26%, 08/12/2022 (A)

    289,000        291,267  

Series 2016-4, Class C,

    

2.91%, 02/13/2023 (A)

    304,000        303,336  

Series 2018-2, Class B,

    

3.46%, 08/10/2022 (A)

    549,000        549,462  

American Homes 4 Rent Trust

    

Series 2014-SFR2, Class A,

    

3.79%, 10/17/2036 (A)

    468,884        474,043  

Series 2014-SFR2, Class E,

    

6.23%, 10/17/2036 (A)

    150,000        165,295  

Series 2014-SFR3, Class E,

    

6.42%, 12/17/2036 (A)

    175,000        194,871  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class A,

    

3.47%, 04/17/2052 (A)

    894,935        886,274  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class D,

    

4.41%, 04/17/2052 (A)

    1,200,000        1,208,439  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class E,

    

5.64%, 04/17/2052 (A)

    292,500        312,474  

Series 2015-SFR2, Class D,

    

5.04%, 10/17/2045 (A)

    700,000        732,551  

Series 2015-SFR2, Class E,

    

6.07%, 10/17/2045 (A)

    430,000        470,681  

American Tower Trust #1
Series 2013-2A, Class 2A,
3.07%, 03/15/2048 (A)

    350,000        343,432  

AmeriCredit Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-4, Class B,

    

1.83%, 12/08/2021

    500,000        491,879  

Series 2017-1, Class B,

    

2.30%, 02/18/2022

    269,000        265,987  

Series 2017-1, Class C,

    

2.71%, 08/18/2022

    144,000        142,357  

Series 2017-1, Class D,

    

3.13%, 01/18/2023

    323,000        320,088  

Anchor Assets IX LLC
Series 2016-1, Class A,
5.13%, 02/15/2020 (A) (B)

    1,500,000        1,500,000  

AXIS Equipment Finance Receivables IV LLC
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
2.21%, 11/20/2021 (A)

    171,040        170,022  

B2R Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2015-1, Class A1,

    

2.52%, 05/15/2048 (A)

    145,566        143,609  

Series 2015-2, Class A,

    

3.34%, 11/15/2048 (A)

    780,952        776,502  

Series 2016-1, Class A,

    

2.57%, 06/15/2049 (A)

    560,633        545,383  

Banc of America Funding Corp.
Series 2012-R6, Class 1A1,
3.00%, 10/26/2039 (A) (B)

    29,772        29,580  

Bank of The West Auto Trust
Series 2015-1, Class A4,
1.66%, 09/15/2020 (A)

    82,570        82,347  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

BCC Funding XIII LLC
Series 2016-1, Class A2,
2.20%, 12/20/2021 (A)

    $   227,817        $   226,656  

Business Jet Securities LLC

    

Series 2018-1, Class A,

    

4.34%, 02/15/2033 (A)

    697,370        698,554  

Series 2018-2, Class A,

    

4.45%, 06/15/2033 (A) (C)

    879,000        878,985  

BXG Receivables Note Trust
Series 2012-A, Class A,
2.66%, 12/02/2027 (A)

    31,037        30,506  

Cabela’s Credit Card Master Note Trust

    

Series 2015-1A, Class A1,

    

2.26%, 03/15/2023

    600,000        592,745  

Series 2016-1, Class A1,

    

1.78%, 06/15/2022

    300,000        296,835  

Camillo Trust
Series 2016-SFR1,
5.00%, 12/05/2023 (B)

    1,094,899        1,092,505  

Capital Auto Receivables Asset Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A3,
2.79%, 01/20/2022 (A)

    1,320,000        1,316,305  

Capital One Multi-Asset Execution Trust

    

Series 2014-A3, Class A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.38%, 2.45% (D), 01/18/2022

    500,000        500,992  

Series 2015-A7, Class A7,

    

1.45%, 08/16/2021

    180,000        179,483  

Series 2016-A4, Class A4,

    

1.33%, 06/15/2022

    200,000        196,864  

Series 2016-A6, Class A6,

    

1.82%, 09/15/2022

    350,000        345,207  

CarFinance Capital Auto Trust
Series 2015-1A, Class A,
1.75%, 06/15/2021 (A)

    13,807        13,785  

CarMax Auto Owner Trust

    

Series 2014-4, Class A4,

    

1.81%, 07/15/2020

    240,293        239,413  

Series 2015-1, Class A4,

    

1.83%, 07/15/2020

    180,000        179,260  

Series 2016-2, Class A3,

    

1.52%, 02/16/2021

    74,877        74,323  

Series 2016-4, Class A4,

    

1.60%, 06/15/2022

    200,000        193,659  

CarNow Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class B,
3.49%, 02/15/2021 (A)

    250,334        250,055  

Chase Funding Loan Acquisition Trust
Series 2003-C2, Class 1A,
4.75%, 12/25/2019

    5,307        5,296  

Chase Funding Trust
Series 2003-6, Class 1A7,
5.07% (D), 11/25/2034

    44,745        45,860  

Chase Issuance Trust

    

Series 2016-A2, Class A,

    

1.37%, 06/15/2021

    200,000        197,504  

Series 2016-A5, Class A5,

    

1.27%, 07/15/2021

    150,000        147,828  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

CIG Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
2.71%, 05/15/2023 (A)

    $   322,429        $   320,347  

Citi Held For Asset Issuance

    

Series 2016-MF1, Class A,

    

4.48%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    1,188        1,188  

Series 2016-MF1, Class B,

    

6.64%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    650,000        655,200  

Citibank Credit Card Issuance Trust
Series 2014-A6, Class A6,
2.15%, 07/15/2021

    130,000        129,238  

CLUB Credit Trust

    

Series 2017-P1, Class A,

    

2.42%, 09/15/2023 (A)

    697,730        696,048  

Series 2017-P2, Class A,

    

2.61%, 01/15/2024 (A)

    673,406        670,854  

CNH Equipment Trust
Series 2015-B, Class A4,
1.89%, 04/15/2022

    190,000        188,967  

Colony American Finance, Ltd.
Series 2016-2, Class A,
2.55%, 11/15/2048 (A)

    286,692        280,075  

Continental Credit Card
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
4.56%, 01/15/2023 (A)

    120,288        119,818  

CPS Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2014-C, Class C,

    

3.77%, 08/17/2020 (A)

    100,000        100,454  

Series 2014-D, Class C,

    

4.35%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    100,000        101,108  

Series 2015-C, Class D,

    

4.63%, 08/16/2021 (A)

    344,000        349,039  

Series 2016-C, Class C,

    

3.27%, 06/15/2022 (A)

    700,000        700,905  

Series 2017-C, Class C,

    

2.86%, 06/15/2023 (A)

    767,000        759,432  

Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust

    

Series 2015-2A, Class A,

    

2.40%, 02/15/2023 (A)

    34,247        34,245  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

    

2.56%, 10/15/2025 (A)

    410,000        407,698  

Series 2017-1A, Class B,

    

3.04%, 12/15/2025 (A)

    250,000        248,674  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

    

3.48%, 02/17/2026 (A)

    250,000        247,821  

Series 2017-2A, Class B,

    

3.02%, 04/15/2026 (A)

    1,260,000        1,236,383  

Series 2018-1A, Class A,

    

3.01%, 02/16/2027 (A)

    413,000        409,029  

Diamond Resorts Owner Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
3.27%, 10/22/2029 (A)

    423,517        413,114  

Discover Card Execution Note Trust

    

Series 2012-A6, Class A6,

    

1.67%, 01/18/2022

    220,000        217,609  

Series 2014-A1, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.43%, 2.50% (D), 07/15/2021

    510,000        510,854  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Discover Card Execution Note Trust (continued)

 

Series 2014-A4, Class A4,

    

2.12%, 12/15/2021

    $   200,000        $   198,925  

Series 2015-A3, Class A,

    

1.45%, 03/15/2021

    140,000        139,699  

Drive Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2015-AA, Class D,

    

4.12%, 07/15/2022 (A)

    294,000        296,875  

Series 2015-BA, Class D,

    

3.84%, 07/15/2021 (A)

    400,000        402,345  

Series 2015-DA, Class D,

    

4.59%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    286,000        290,548  

Series 2016-CA, Class D,

    

4.18%, 03/15/2024 (A)

    648,000        656,067  

Series 2017-3, Class D,

    

3.53%, 12/15/2023 (A)

    1,520,000        1,514,278  

Series 2017-AA, Class B,

    

2.51%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    111,006        110,958  

Series 2017-AA, Class C,

    

2.98%, 01/18/2022 (A)

    279,000        279,023  

Series 2017-AA, Class D,

    

4.16%, 05/15/2024 (A)

    372,000        376,579  

DT Asset Trust
Series 2017, Class B,
5.84%, 12/16/2022 (B)

    600,000        599,340  

DT Auto Owner Trust

    

Series 2016-4A, Class B,

    

2.02%, 08/17/2020 (A)

    32,363        32,351  

Series 2016-4A, Class D,

    

3.77%, 10/17/2022 (A)

    331,800        333,026  

Series 2017-1A, Class D,

    

3.55%, 11/15/2022 (A)

    339,000        338,892  

Series 2017-2A, Class C,

    

3.03%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    625,000        623,540  

Series 2017-3A, Class D,

    

3.58%, 05/15/2023 (A)

    305,000        304,096  

Engs Commercial Finance Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A2,
2.63%, 02/22/2022 (A)

    147,306        145,607  

Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class C,

    

5.52%, 10/15/2021 (A)

    445,000        455,416  

Series 2016-2A, Class A,

    

2.21%, 07/15/2020 (A)

    13,687        13,684  

Series 2016-3A, Class A,

    

1.84%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    181,280        180,926  

Series 2016-3A, Class B,

    

2.84%, 08/16/2021 (A)

    244,000        243,766  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

    

3.95%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    180,000        180,556  

Series 2017-3A, Class A,

    

2.05%, 12/15/2021 (A)

    235,046        233,772  

Series 2017-3A, Class C,

    

3.68%, 07/17/2023 (A)

    658,000        658,011  

First Investors Auto Owner Trust

    

Series 2016-2A, Class A1,

    

1.53%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    48,379        48,292  

Series 2017-3A, Class A2,

    

2.41%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    625,000        616,346  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

FirstKey Lending Trust

    

Series 2015-SFR1, Class A,

    

2.55%, 03/09/2047 (A)

    $   365,070        $   363,107  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class B,

    

3.42%, 03/09/2047 (A)

    240,000        239,341  

Flagship Credit Auto Trust

    

Series 2014-2, Class B,

    

2.84%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    32,105        32,117  

Series 2014-2, Class C,

    

3.95%, 12/15/2020 (A)

    66,000        66,384  

Series 2015-3, Class A,

    

2.38%, 10/15/2020 (A)

    127,669        127,512  

Series 2015-3, Class B,

    

3.68%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    189,000        190,150  

Series 2015-3, Class C,

    

4.65%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    126,000        128,124  

Series 2016-1, Class A,

    

2.77%, 12/15/2020 (A)

    102,932        102,960  

Series 2016-1, Class C,

    

6.22%, 06/15/2022 (A)

    600,000        624,237  

Series 2016-4, Class C,

    

2.71%, 11/15/2022 (A)

    423,000        418,629  

Ford Credit Auto Owner Trust
Series 2015-A, Class A3,
1.28%, 09/15/2019

    484        483  

Freedom Financial
Series 2018-1, Class A,
3.61%, 07/18/2024 (A)

    686,000        685,942  

GLS Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

    

2.73%, 10/15/2020 (A)

    40,393        40,393  

Series 2016-1A, Class B,

    

4.39%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    180,000        181,260  

GM Financial Automobile Leasing Trust

    

Series 2015-3, Class A4,

    

1.81%, 11/20/2019

    67,788        67,758  

Series 2016-2, Class A4,

    

1.76%, 03/20/2020

    150,000        149,172  

GO Financial Auto Securitization Trust
Series 2015-2, Class B,
4.80%, 08/17/2020 (A)

    2,806        2,808  

Gold Key Resorts LLC
Series 2014-A, Class A,
3.22%, 03/17/2031 (A)

    117,689        116,253  

Goodgreen Trust

    

Series 2017, Class R1,

    

5.00%, 10/20/2051 (B)

    1,190,934        1,171,165  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

    

3.74%, 10/15/2052 (A)

    215,927        216,351  

Series 2017-2A, Class A,

    

3.26%, 10/15/2053 (A)

    913,196        885,802  

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust
Series 2015-1, Class A4,
1.67%, 08/15/2022

    300,000        298,349  

Headlands Residential LLC
Series 2018,
4.25% (B), 06/25/2023

    1,160,000        1,154,010  

Hero Funding Trust

    

Series 2017-1A, Class A2,

    

4.46%, 09/20/2047 (A)

    751,462        768,844  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Hero Funding Trust (continued)

 

  

Series 2017-3A, Class A2,

    

3.95%, 09/20/2048 (A)

    $   832,783        $   832,028  

Hilton Grand Vacations Trust
Series 2017-AA, Class A,
2.66%, 12/26/2028 (A)

    281,029        276,004  

Hyundai Auto Lease Securitization Trust

    

Series 2016-B, Class A4,

    

1.68%, 04/15/2020 (A)

    200,000        199,239  

Series 2016-C, Class A4,

    

1.65%, 07/15/2020 (A)

    100,000        99,336  

Hyundai Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2015-A, Class A4,

    

1.37%, 07/15/2020

    86,782        86,537  

Series 2015-B, Class A3,

    

1.12%, 11/15/2019

    16,416        16,388  

Kabbage Asset Securitization LLC
Series 2017-1, Class A,
4.57%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    2,230,000        2,251,360  

KGS-Alpha SBA COOF Trust, Interest Only STRIPS

    

Series 2012-2, Class A,

    

0.86% (D), 08/25/2038 (A)

    940,212        22,500  

Series 2013-2, Class A,

    

1.64% (D), 03/25/2039 (A)

    880,525        36,699  

Series 2014-2, Class A,

    

2.98% (D), 04/25/2040 (A)

    402,407        32,334  

LendingClub Issuance Trust
Series 2016-NP2, Class A,
3.00%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    23,355        23,340  

LV Tower 52
Series 2013-1, Class A,
5.75%, 02/15/2023 (A) (B)

    966,509        966,509  

Mariner Finance Issuance Trust
Series 2017-AA, Class A,
3.62%, 02/20/2029 (A)

    560,000        561,768  

Marlette Funding Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

    

3.06%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    30,594        30,593  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

    

2.83%, 03/15/2024 (A)

    338,756        338,654  

Series 2018-1A, Class A,

    

2.61%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    708,094        706,066  

Mercedes-Benz Auto Lease Trust
Series 2016-B, Class A4,
1.52%, 06/15/2022

    300,000        298,011  

Mercedes-Benz Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2015-1, Class A4,
1.75%, 12/15/2021

    140,000        138,904  

Nationstar HECM Loan Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class M1,
2.94%, 05/25/2027 (A)

    105,000        104,178  

New Residential Advanced Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T2, Class AT2,

    

2.58%, 10/15/2049 (A)

    535,000        530,001  

Series 2016-T2, Class CT2,

    

3.51%, 10/15/2049 (A)

    375,000        370,895  

Nissan Auto Lease Trust

    

Series 2016-A, Class A4,

    

1.65%, 10/15/2021

    150,000        149,720  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Nissan Auto Lease Trust (continued)

    

Series 2016-B, Class A4,

    

1.61%, 01/18/2022

    $   100,000        $   99,389  

Ocwen Master Advance Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T1, Class AT1,

    

2.52%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    1,254,000        1,254,811  

Series 2016-T1, Class BT1,

    

3.06%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    490,743        483,755  

Series 2016-T1, Class CT1,

    

3.61%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    441,350        441,081  

Series 2016-T1, Class DT1,

    

4.25%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    473,684        474,395  

Series 2017-T1, Class AT1,

    

2.50%, 09/15/2048 (A)

    248,000        247,705  

OnDeck Asset Securitization Trust LLC
Series 2018-1A, Class A,
3.50%, 04/18/2022 (A)

    351,000        351,210  

OneMain Direct Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
2.04%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    1,764        1,764  

OneMain Financial Issuance Trust

    

Series 2015-1A, Class A,

    

3.19%, 03/18/2026 (A)

    387,495        388,327  

Series 2015-2A, Class A,

    

2.57%, 07/18/2025 (A)

    142,047        142,013  

Series 2015-2A, Class B,

    

3.10%, 07/18/2025 (A)

    279,000        279,027  

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

    

3.66%, 02/20/2029 (A)

    560,000        563,512  

Oportun Funding III LLC
Series 2016-B, Class A,
3.69%, 07/08/2021 (A)

    571,000        570,886  

Oportun Funding IV LLC
Series 2016-C, Class B,
4.85%, 11/08/2021 (A)

    254,568        256,503  

Oportun Funding VI LLC
Series 2017-A, Class A,
3.23%, 06/08/2023 (A)

    405,000        398,403  

Oportun Funding VII LLC
Series 2017-B, Class A,
3.22%, 10/10/2023 (A)

    309,000        304,617  

Oportun Funding VIII LLC
Series 2018-A, Class A,
3.61%, 03/08/2024 (A)

    655,000        652,257  

Progress Residential Trust

    

Series 2015-SFR2, Class A,

    

2.74%, 06/12/2032 (A)

    1,385,957        1,366,576  

Series 2015-SFR2, Class B,

    

3.14%, 06/12/2032 (A)

    327,000        323,151  

Series 2015-SFR3, Class A,

    

3.07%, 11/12/2032 (A)

    1,735,182        1,717,673  

Series 2015-SFR3, Class D,

    

4.67%, 11/12/2032 (A)

    300,000        303,581  

Series 2015-SFR3, Class E,

    

5.66%, 11/12/2032 (A)

    200,000        205,652  

Prosper Marketplace Issuance Trust

    

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

    

2.56%, 06/15/2023 (A)

    127,524        127,526  

Series 2017-3A, Class A,

    

2.36%, 11/15/2023 (A)

    518,468        516,316  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Purchasing Power Funding LLC
Series 2018-A, Class A,
3.34%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    $   1,550,000        $   1,542,977  

RBSHD Trust
Series 2013-1A, Class A,
7.69% (D), 10/25/2047 (A) (B)

    108,092        104,026  

Renew
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
3.67%, 09/20/2052 (A)

    296,936        294,791  

Rice Park Financing Trust
Series 2016-A, Class A,
4.63%, 10/31/2041 (A) (B)

    1,095,799        1,096,786  

Santander Drive Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2015-5, Class E,
4.67%, 02/15/2023 (A)

    1,560,000        1,577,566  

Santander Retail Auto Lease Trust
Series 2018-A, Class A3,
2.93%, 05/20/2021 (A)

    619,000        617,079  

Saxon Asset Securities Trust
Series 2003-1, Class AF6,
4.71% (D), 06/25/2033

    6,827        6,893  

Securitized Asset-Backed Receivables LLC Trust
Series 2006-CB1, Class AF2,
3.48% (D), 01/25/2036

    21,004        18,651  

Sierra Auto Receivables Securitization Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
2.85%, 01/18/2022 (A)

    22,697        22,693  

SoFi Consumer Loan Program LLC
Series 2016-2A, Class A,
3.09%, 10/27/2025 (A)

    174,554        174,241  

SpringCastle America Funding LLC
Series 2016-AA, Class A,
3.05%, 04/25/2029 (A)

    431,405        429,810  

Springleaf Funding Trust
Series 2015-AA, Class A,
3.16%, 11/15/2024 (A)

    483,692        483,506  

Synchrony Credit Card Master Note Trust
Series 2016-1, Class A,
2.04%, 03/15/2022

    200,000        199,379  

Toyota Auto Receivables Owner Trust

    

Series 2015-B, Class A4,

    

1.74%, 09/15/2020

    100,000        99,705  

Series 2016-A, Class A4,

    

1.47%, 09/15/2021

    220,000        216,639  

Series 2016-B, Class A3,

    

1.30%, 04/15/2020

    130,961        130,273  

Tricolor Auto Securitization Trust
Series 2018-1A, Class A,
5.05%, 12/15/2020 (A) (B)

    938,768        939,284  

Tricon American Homes Trust
Series 2016-SFR1, Class A,
2.59%, 11/17/2033 (A)

    380,140        367,875  

U.S. Residential Opportunity Fund IV Trust

    

Series 2017-1III, Class A,

    

3.35% (D), 11/27/2037 (A)

    1,398,209        1,391,835  

Series 2017-1IV, Class A,

    

3.35% (D), 11/27/2037 (A)

    700,771        693,532  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

USAA Auto Owner Trust
Series 2015-1, Class A4,
1.54%, 11/16/2020

    $   66,706        $   66,615  

Vericrest Opportunity Loan Trust
Series 2018-NPL2, Class A1,
4.34% (D), 05/25/2048 (A)

    715,730        715,426  

Verizon Owner Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

    

1.42%, 01/20/2021 (A)

    100,000        99,377  

Series 2017-3A, Class A1A,

    

2.06%, 04/20/2022 (A)

    1,033,000        1,015,305  

VM DEBT LLC
Series 2017-1, Class A,
6.50%, 10/02/2024 (A) (B)

    955,000        955,000  

VOLT LIV LLC
Series 2017-NPL1, Class A1,
3.50% (D), 02/25/2047 (A)

    80,837        80,829  

VOLT LIX LLC
Series 2017-NPL6, Class A1,
3.25% (D), 05/25/2047 (A)

    221,779        220,148  

VOLT LV LLC
Series 2017-NPL2, Class A1,
3.50% (D), 03/25/2047 (A)

    270,291        269,365  

VOLT LVI LLC
Series 2017-NPL3, Class A1,
3.50% (D), 03/25/2047 (A)

    658,454        656,916  

VOLT LVII LLC
Series 2017-NPL4, Class A1,
3.38% (D), 04/25/2047 (A)

    358,360        357,318  

VOLT LX LLC
Series 2017-NPL7, Class A1,
3.25% (D), 06/25/2047 (A)

    369,973        367,908  

VOLT LXI LLC
Series 2017-NPL8, Class A1,
3.13% (D), 06/25/2047 (A)

    410,600        407,736  

VOLT LXIV LLC
Series 2017-NP11, Class A1,
3.38% (D), 10/25/2047 (A)

    1,496,859        1,489,980  

VOLT LXVII LLC
Series 2018-NPL3, Class A1,
4.38% (D), 06/25/2048 (A)

    823,000        823,000  

VOLT XL LLC
Series 2015-NP14, Class A1,
4.38% (D), 11/27/2045 (A)

    87,986        88,677  

Westgate Resorts LLC
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
3.05%, 12/20/2030 (A)

    329,177        326,001  

Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2015 -3A, Class D,

    

4.40%, 05/17/2021 (A)

    250,000        250,921  

Series 2016-2A, Class D,

    

4.10%, 06/15/2021 (A)

    170,000        171,492  

Series 2016-3A, Class C,

    

2.46%, 01/18/2022 (A)

    863,000        859,387  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

    

2.70%, 10/17/2022 (A)

    247,000        245,956  

World Omni Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2015-A, Class A3,

    

1.34%, 05/15/2020

    12,297        12,281  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

World Omni Auto Receivables Trust (continued)

 

Series 2015-B, Class A4,

    

1.84%, 01/17/2022

    $   80,000        $   79,211  

Series 2016-B, Class A4,

    

1.48%, 11/15/2022

    150,000        145,319  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $84,613,200)

 

     84,105,057  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 24.5%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.3%  

Airbus Finance BV
2.70%, 04/17/2023 (A)

    43,000        41,548  

Airbus SE
3.15%, 04/10/2027 (A)

    164,000        156,809  

BAE Systems Holdings, Inc.

    

3.80%, 10/07/2024 (A)

    53,000        52,896  

3.85%, 12/15/2025 (A)

    200,000        197,694  

6.38%, 06/01/2019 (A)

    30,000        30,900  

BAE Systems PLC
5.80%, 10/11/2041 (A)

    92,000        106,196  

Harris Corp.

    

3.83%, 04/27/2025

    200,000        196,106  

4.85%, 04/27/2035

    70,000        71,433  

Lockheed Martin Corp.
4.50%, 05/15/2036

    100,000        103,785  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    

3.25%, 01/15/2028

    150,000        140,919  

3.85%, 04/15/2045

    38,000        34,475  

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp.
7.75%, 02/15/2031

    40,000        53,554  

Precision Castparts Corp.

    

3.25%, 06/15/2025

    170,000        165,438  

4.20%, 06/15/2035

    170,000        172,572  

Rockwell Collins, Inc.
3.20%, 03/15/2024

    70,000        67,436  

United Technologies Corp.

    

3.10%, 06/01/2022

    64,000        63,222  

4.15%, 05/15/2045

    163,000        151,399  

4.50%, 06/01/2042

    86,000        84,986  
    

 

 

 
       1,891,368  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.0% (E)  

FedEx Corp.

    

3.90%, 02/01/2035

    96,000        89,776  

4.10%, 04/15/2043

    70,000        63,827  
    

 

 

 
       153,603  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.5%  

Air Canada Pass-Through Trust

    

3.30%, 07/15/2031 (A)

    160,000        153,821  

3.55%, 07/15/2031 (A)

    227,000        217,590  

4.13%, 11/15/2026 (A)

    198,700        199,157  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

3.00%, 04/15/2030

    398,707        374,447  

3.65%, 02/15/2029 - 12/15/2029

    155,005        150,684  

3.70%, 04/15/2027 - 04/01/2028

    382,501        370,340  

4.95%, 07/15/2024

    139,577        143,855  

British Airways Pass-Through Trust
4.13%, 03/20/2033 (A)

    309,000        304,776  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Airlines (continued)  

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

4.00%, 04/29/2026

    $   24,722        $   24,819  

5.98%, 10/19/2023

    35,068        37,126  

Delta Air Lines Pass-Through Trust

    

4.75%, 11/07/2021

    51,889        52,786  

5.30%, 10/15/2020

    10,595        10,747  

Southwest Airlines Co.
2.75%, 11/06/2019 (F)

    163,000        162,410  

Spirit Airlines Pass-Through Trust
3.38%, 08/15/2031

    153,000        149,789  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

3.45%, 01/07/2030

    135,333        130,578  

3.65%, 07/07/2027

    164,000        159,622  
    

 

 

 
       2,642,547  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.2%  

Ford Motor Co.
7.45%, 07/16/2031

    410,000        481,766  

General Motors Co.
6.60%, 04/01/2036

    640,000        692,690  
    

 

 

 
       1,174,456  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 4.2%  

ABN AMRO Bank NV

    

2.45%, 06/04/2020 (A)

    319,000        313,831  

4.75%, 07/28/2025 (A)

    200,000        198,844  

ANZ New Zealand International, Ltd.
2.60%, 09/23/2019 (A)

    400,000        397,902  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.
4.88%, 01/12/2021 (A)

    100,000        103,564  

Banco Santander SA
4.38%, 04/12/2028

    200,000        191,225  

Bank of America Corp.

    

2.50%, 10/21/2022, MTN

    225,000        215,516  

Fixed until 04/24/2022, 2.88% (D), 04/24/2023

    395,000        383,699  

Fixed until 12/20/2022, 3.00% (D), 12/20/2023

    237,000        229,780  

Fixed until 10/01/2024, 3.09% (D), 10/01/2025,

MTN

    198,000        188,541  

3.25%, 10/21/2027, MTN

    942,000        877,916  

Fixed until 01/23/2025, 3.37% (D), 01/23/2026

    200,000        192,423  

Fixed until 12/20/2027, 3.42% (D), 12/20/2028

    430,000        404,920  

Fixed until 03/05/2023, 3.55% (D), 03/05/2024

    126,000        124,710  

Fixed until 04/24/2027, 3.71% (D), 04/24/2028

    700,000        675,102  

3.95%, 04/21/2025, MTN

    368,000        360,395  

Fixed until 03/05/2028, 3.97% (D), 03/05/2029,

MTN

    300,000        295,270  

4.00%, 01/22/2025, MTN

    400,000        394,861  

4.25%, 10/22/2026, MTN

    284,000        280,638  

Bank of Montreal
2.35%, 09/11/2022, MTN

    150,000        143,570  

Bank of Nova Scotia

    

1.65%, 06/14/2019

    160,000        158,271  

1.85%, 04/14/2020 (F)

    300,000        294,604  

Barclays PLC

    

3.65%, 03/16/2025

    200,000        187,326  

3.68%, 01/10/2023

    478,000        464,836  

BB&T Corp.
5.25%, 11/01/2019

    30,000        30,823  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

BNZ International Funding, Ltd.

    

2.10%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    $   310,000        $   296,336  

2.65%, 11/03/2022 (A)

    250,000        239,453  

BPCE SA
4.63%, 07/11/2024 (A)

    200,000        197,481  

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

    

1.60%, 09/06/2019

    285,000        280,807  

2.25%, 07/21/2020 (A)

    234,000        230,463  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

2.35%, 08/02/2021

    154,000        148,758  

2.65%, 10/26/2020

    350,000        345,254  

2.70%, 03/30/2021

    108,000        105,924  

2.75%, 04/25/2022

    350,000        338,782  

Fixed until 01/24/2022, 3.14% (D), 01/24/2023

    213,000        208,680  

3.20%, 10/21/2026

    162,000        150,649  

3.40%, 05/01/2026

    150,000        142,141  

Fixed until 07/24/2027, 3.67% (D), 07/24/2028

    200,000        190,282  

3.70%, 01/12/2026

    400,000        387,700  

3.88%, 03/26/2025

    100,000        96,987  

4.13%, 07/25/2028

    48,000        45,955  

4.40%, 06/10/2025

    100,000        99,454  

4.75%, 05/18/2046

    140,000        133,129  

5.30%, 05/06/2044

    34,000        35,004  

5.50%, 09/13/2025

    115,000        122,095  

5.88%, 01/30/2042

    45,000        51,979  

8.13%, 07/15/2039

    28,000        39,386  

Citizens Financial Group, Inc.

    

2.38%, 07/28/2021

    39,000        37,710  

4.30%, 12/03/2025

    58,000        57,627  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

    

3.45%, 03/16/2023 (A)

    230,000        227,610  

3.90%, 03/16/2028 (A)

    230,000        227,546  

4.50%, 12/09/2025 (A)

    200,000        198,490  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
4.38%, 08/04/2025

    250,000        245,108  

Credit Agricole SA
4.13%, 01/10/2027 (A)

    250,000        241,867  

Danske Bank A/S

    

2.00%, 09/08/2021 (A)

    200,000        191,211  

2.70%, 03/02/2022 (A) (F)

    200,000        194,053  

Discover Bank

    

2.60%, 11/13/2018

    100,000        99,942  

4.20%, 08/08/2023

    250,000        252,256  

Fifth Third Bancorp
3.95%, 03/14/2028

    160,000        157,825  

Fifth Third Bank

    

2.15%, 08/20/2018, MTN

    350,000        349,953  

2.88%, 10/01/2021

    204,000        201,491  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    

3.60%, 05/25/2023

    229,000        226,755  

4.00%, 03/30/2022 (F)

    107,000        108,562  

Fixed until 03/13/2027, 4.04% (D), 03/13/2028

    650,000        631,017  

4.38%, 11/23/2026 (F)

    200,000        196,599  

4.88%, 01/14/2022

    160,000        166,809  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.
2.30%, 01/14/2022

    227,000        217,991  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Ltd.
2.45%, 10/20/2021

    $   250,000        $   240,462  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA
3.88%, 07/14/2027 (A)

    200,000        172,571  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    

3.75%, 01/11/2027

    254,000        240,094  

4.38%, 03/22/2028

    200,000        197,304  

4.58%, 12/10/2025

    200,000        196,052  

Macquarie Bank, Ltd.

    

2.40%, 01/21/2020 (A)

    150,000        148,048  

2.60%, 06/24/2019 (A)

    187,000        186,429  

Mizuho Bank, Ltd.
3.60%, 09/25/2024 (A)

    300,000        297,964  

MUFG Americas Holdings Corp.
2.25%, 02/10/2020

    65,000        64,034  

MUFG Bank, Ltd.
2.35%, 09/08/2019 (A)

    260,000        257,964  

Nordea Bank AB
4.88%, 01/27/2020 (A)

    100,000        102,691  

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

    

3.90%, 04/29/2024

    91,000        91,159  

4.38%, 08/11/2020

    92,000        94,261  

5.13%, 02/08/2020

    65,000        67,076  

6.70%, 06/10/2019

    25,000        25,875  

Regions Bank
2.25%, 09/14/2018

    290,000        289,861  

Royal Bank of Canada

    

2.00%, 10/01/2018

    84,000        83,918  

2.20%, 07/27/2018, MTN

    151,000        150,977  

4.65%, 01/27/2026, MTN (F)

    225,000        228,270  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC
3.88%, 09/12/2023

    200,000        194,284  

Santander Holdings USA, Inc.
2.70%, 05/24/2019

    136,000        135,590  

Santander UK Group Holdings PLC

    

3.13%, 01/08/2021

    150,000        147,921  

4.75%, 09/15/2025 (A)

    200,000        195,303  

Societe Generale SA
4.25%, 04/14/2025 (A)

    200,000        191,990  

Stadshypotek AB
1.88%, 10/02/2019 (A)

    250,000        247,048  

Standard Chartered PLC

    

3.05%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    200,000        197,074  

5.20%, 01/26/2024 (A)

    200,000        204,051  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    

2.44%, 10/19/2021

    119,000        114,912  

2.63%, 07/14/2026 (F)

    107,000        97,492  

2.78%, 07/12/2022 - 10/18/2022

    385,000        372,163  

3.10%, 01/17/2023

    155,000        151,449  

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank, Ltd.
2.05%, 10/18/2019 (A)

    335,000        330,340  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    

2.70%, 01/27/2022

    76,000        74,048  

2.90%, 03/03/2021

    59,000        58,278  

Toronto-Dominion Bank
Fixed until 09/15/2026,
3.63% (D), 09/15/2031

    110,000        103,522  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

US Bancorp
2.38%, 07/22/2026, MTN

    $   100,000        $   90,987  

US Bank NA
2.80%, 01/27/2025

    250,000        236,965  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

3.00%, 02/19/2025, MTN

    213,000        200,912  

3.30%, 09/09/2024, MTN

    700,000        676,259  

3.50%, 03/08/2022, MTN

    150,000        149,511  

4.10%, 06/03/2026, MTN

    258,000        252,815  

4.65%, 11/04/2044, MTN

    184,000        175,284  

4.75%, 12/07/2046, MTN

    143,000        138,378  

4.90%, 11/17/2045, MTN

    112,000        110,617  

Wells Fargo Bank NA
2.15%, 12/06/2019, MTN

    390,000        385,750  

Westpac Banking Corp.

    

2.00%, 03/03/2020 (A)

    304,000        299,084  

3.40%, 01/25/2028

    150,000        142,894  

Fixed until 11/23/2026, 4.32% (D), 11/23/2031, MTN

    180,000        173,432  
    

 

 

 
       24,209,051  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.5%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.

    

3.30%, 02/01/2023

    646,000        640,599  

3.65%, 02/01/2026

    160,000        156,631  

4.70%, 02/01/2036

    1,027,000        1,040,913  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.

    

4.00%, 04/13/2028

    230,000        229,466  

4.75%, 04/15/2058

    50,000        48,838  

Coca-Cola Femsa SAB de CV
3.88%, 11/26/2023

    150,000        150,205  

Diageo Capital PLC
4.83%, 07/15/2020

    25,000        25,851  

Diageo Investment Corp.
8.00%, 09/15/2022

    100,000        117,606  

Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Inc.
3.43%, 06/15/2027

    50,000        46,197  

Maple Escrow Subsidiary, Inc.

    

4.42%, 05/25/2025 (A)

    86,000        86,429  

4.99%, 05/25/2038 (A)

    124,000        124,788  

Molson Coors Brewing Co.
1.45%, 07/15/2019

    155,000        152,549  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    

4.60%, 07/17/2045

    78,000        84,498  

4.88%, 11/01/2040

    33,000        36,719  
    

 

 

 
       2,941,289  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.3%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    

3.60%, 05/14/2025

    189,000        183,048  

4.50%, 05/14/2035

    200,000        194,655  

Amgen, Inc.

    

4.66%, 06/15/2051

    100,000        98,879  

4.95%, 10/01/2041

    100,000        102,500  

5.70%, 02/01/2019

    50,000        50,821  

Celgene Corp.

    

3.63%, 05/15/2024

    164,000        159,999  

5.70%, 10/15/2040

    114,000        123,310  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Biotechnology (continued)  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    

1.95%, 03/01/2022

    $   225,000        $   214,340  

3.50%, 02/01/2025

    65,000        64,018  

3.65%, 03/01/2026

    72,000        71,084  

3.70%, 04/01/2024

    374,000        374,715  

4.00%, 09/01/2036

    49,000        47,149  

4.60%, 09/01/2035

    65,000        66,898  
    

 

 

 
       1,751,416  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.1%  

Johnson Controls International PLC

    

3.75%, 12/01/2021

    66,000        66,555  

4.95% (G), 07/02/2064

    120,000        114,118  

5.25%, 12/01/2041

    100,000        103,622  

Masco Corp.
6.50%, 08/15/2032

    130,000        145,186  
    

 

 

 
       429,481  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.1%  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    

2.20%, 08/16/2023, MTN

    200,000        187,726  

2.60%, 08/17/2020, MTN

    194,000        192,065  

Fixed until 05/16/2022, 2.66% (D), 05/16/2023, MTN

    257,000        249,395  

3.25%, 09/11/2024, MTN

    150,000        147,262  

4.60%, 01/15/2020, MTN

    30,000        30,734  

Charles Schwab Corp.
3.23%, 09/01/2022

    20,000        19,924  

CME Group, Inc.
5.30%, 09/15/2043

    32,000        37,577  

Credit Suisse AG
2.30%, 05/28/2019, MTN

    250,000        248,798  

Credit Suisse Group AG
4.28%, 01/09/2028 (A)

    300,000        291,824  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3.80%, 06/09/2023

    250,000        246,757  

Daiwa Securities Group, Inc.
3.13%, 04/19/2022 (A)

    122,000        119,498  

Deutsche Bank AG

    

3.30%, 11/16/2022

    200,000        187,374  

3.70%, 05/30/2024

    267,000        247,854  

4.25%, 10/14/2021

    200,000        197,174  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

2.75%, 09/15/2020

    100,000        98,808  

Fixed until 10/31/2021, 2.88% (D), 10/31/2022

    495,000        483,229  

Fixed until 06/05/2022, 2.91% (D), 06/05/2023

    160,000        154,412  

3.00%, 04/26/2022

    120,000        117,228  

Fixed until 09/29/2024, 3.27% (D), 09/29/2025

    403,000        382,658  

3.50%, 01/23/2025 - 11/16/2026

    417,000        395,837  

Fixed until 06/05/2027, 3.69% (D), 06/05/2028

    488,000        462,616  

3.75%, 05/22/2025

    745,000        726,348  

3.85%, 01/26/2027

    290,000        278,495  

4.25%, 10/21/2025

    100,000        98,534  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.
4.00%, 10/15/2023

    88,000        89,888  

Invesco Finance PLC

    

3.75%, 01/15/2026

    94,000        92,405  

4.00%, 01/30/2024

    71,000        71,418  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Capital Markets (continued)  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    

Fixed until 11/28/2027, 3.76% (D), 11/28/2028 (A)

    $   515,000        $   475,233  

6.00%, 01/14/2020 (A)

    300,000        311,985  

6.25%, 01/14/2021 (A)

    175,000        185,587  

Morgan Stanley

    

2.20%, 12/07/2018, MTN

    20,000        19,972  

3.13%, 01/23/2023, MTN

    400,000        390,294  

Fixed until 07/22/2027, 3.59% (D), 07/22/2028

    356,000        338,359  

3.63%, 01/20/2027

    200,000        192,045  

3.70%, 10/23/2024, MTN

    444,000        438,337  

3.75%, 02/25/2023, MTN

    789,000        789,895  

Fixed until 01/24/2028, 3.77% (D), 01/24/2029, MTN

    295,000        284,182  

4.00%, 07/23/2025, MTN

    664,000        661,981  

4.10%, 05/22/2023, MTN

    150,000        150,573  

4.30%, 01/27/2045

    92,000        87,047  

4.35%, 09/08/2026, MTN

    200,000        197,271  

5.00%, 11/24/2025

    269,000        278,853  

5.50%, 07/24/2020 - 07/28/2021, MTN

    334,000        351,564  

5.75%, 01/25/2021

    100,000        105,725  

Northern Trust Corp.
Fixed until 05/08/2027, 3.38% (D), 05/08/2032

    71,000        66,699  

State Street Corp.

    

3.10%, 05/15/2023

    48,000        47,333  

3.55%, 08/18/2025

    88,000        87,957  

3.70%, 11/20/2023

    231,000        234,234  

Thomson Reuters Corp.
4.50%, 05/23/2043

    59,000        54,960  

UBS Group Funding Switzerland AG

    

3.49%, 05/23/2023 (A)

    480,000        469,255  

4.13%, 04/15/2026 (A)

    200,000        197,936  
    

 

 

 
       12,273,115  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.3%  

Air Liquide Finance SA
2.25%, 09/27/2023 (A)

    200,000        187,831  

Albemarle Corp.
5.45%, 12/01/2044

    50,000        53,221  

Chevron Phillips Chemical Co.
3.70%, 06/01/2028 (A)

    200,000        197,562  

Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. LLC / Chevron Phillips Chemical Co., LP
3.40%, 12/01/2026 (A)

    181,000        176,699  

Dow Chemical Co.

    

3.00%, 11/15/2022

    130,000        126,599  

5.25%, 11/15/2041

    45,000        47,328  

E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.
4.90%, 01/15/2041

    18,000        18,735  

Monsanto Co.
4.70%, 07/15/2064

    97,000        85,025  

Mosaic Co.

    

4.88%, 11/15/2041

    8,000        7,264  

5.45%, 11/15/2033

    91,000        92,003  

5.63%, 11/15/2043

    222,000        223,624  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Chemicals (continued)  

Nutrien, Ltd.

    

3.38%, 03/15/2025

    $   108,000        $   101,643  

4.13%, 03/15/2035

    200,000        185,211  

Praxair, Inc.
2.65%, 02/05/2025

    59,000        55,909  

Sherwin-Williams Co.
3.13%, 06/01/2024

    70,000        66,859  

Union Carbide Corp.
7.50%, 06/01/2025

    175,000        205,285  

Westlake Chemical Corp.
4.38%, 11/15/2047

    89,000        82,018  
    

 

 

 
       1,912,816  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.1%  

Brambles USA, Inc.
4.13%, 10/23/2025 (A)

    100,000        99,830  

ERAC USA Finance LLC

    

4.50%, 08/16/2021 (A)

    36,000        36,895  

5.25%, 10/01/2020 (A)

    48,000        49,854  

5.63%, 03/15/2042 (A)

    59,000        63,961  

6.70%, 06/01/2034 (A)

    152,000        182,522  

Republic Services, Inc.

    

2.90%, 07/01/2026

    49,000        45,503  

3.55%, 06/01/2022

    54,000        54,345  
    

 

 

 
       532,910  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.1%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    

3.00%, 06/15/2022

    111,000        110,557  

3.63%, 03/04/2024

    450,000        455,059  

5.90%, 02/15/2039

    70,000        86,605  
    

 

 

 
       652,221  
    

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering - 0.1%  

ABB Finance USA, Inc.

    

2.88%, 05/08/2022

    29,000        28,483  

3.80%, 04/03/2028

    115,000        115,900  

4.38%, 05/08/2042

    17,000        17,436  

Fluor Corp.
3.38%, 09/15/2021

    190,000        189,788  
    

 

 

 
       351,607  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.0% (E)  

CRH America Finance, Inc.
3.40%, 05/09/2027 (A)

    200,000        188,247  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.0%  

American Express Co.
3.63%, 12/05/2024

    104,000        102,431  

American Express Credit Corp.

    

1.88%, 11/05/2018, MTN

    111,000        110,759  

2.25%, 05/05/2021, MTN

    152,000        147,703  

2.38%, 05/26/2020, MTN

    290,000        285,791  

2.70%, 03/03/2022, MTN

    95,000        92,748  

American Honda Finance Corp.

    

2.25%, 08/15/2019, MTN

    317,000        315,191  

2.30%, 09/09/2026, MTN

    34,000        30,888  

BMW US Capital LLC
2.25%, 09/15/2023 (A)

    180,000        167,702  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    

3.75%, 04/24/2024 - 07/28/2026

    481,000        458,355  

4.20%, 10/29/2025

    50,000        48,558  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Consumer Finance (continued)  

Daimler Finance North America LLC

    

1.50%, 07/05/2019 (A)

    $   155,000        $   152,743  

1.75%, 10/30/2019 (A)

    150,000        147,368  

2.38%, 08/01/2018 (A)

    151,000        150,959  

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC

    

3.34%, 03/18/2021

    450,000        445,964  

3.81%, 01/09/2024

    200,000        194,136  

4.13%, 08/04/2025

    200,000        194,978  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.

    

3.50%, 11/07/2024

    220,000        209,484  

3.70%, 05/09/2023

    184,000        180,514  

3.95%, 04/13/2024

    310,000        303,368  

4.30%, 07/13/2025

    100,000        98,106  

4.35%, 04/09/2025

    135,000        133,064  

Hyundai Capital America

    

2.40%, 10/30/2018 (A)

    129,000        128,810  

3.00%, 03/18/2021 (A)

    200,000        196,301  

John Deere Capital Corp.

    

2.45%, 09/11/2020, MTN

    40,000        39,435  

2.65%, 06/24/2024, MTN

    150,000        142,897  

2.70%, 01/06/2023, MTN

    74,000        72,215  

2.80%, 01/27/2023 (F)

    73,000        71,368  

2.80%, 09/08/2027, MTN

    200,000        186,701  

3.15%, 10/15/2021, MTN

    33,000        33,070  

Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp.

    

1.90%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    78,000        74,230  

2.55%, 03/08/2021 (A)

    150,000        146,569  

Synchrony Financial
3.70%, 08/04/2026

    140,000        128,613  

Toyota Motor Credit Corp.

    

1.55%, 10/18/2019, MTN

    190,000        187,329  

2.13%, 07/18/2019, MTN

    225,000        223,630  
    

 

 

 
       5,601,978  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.1%  

International Paper Co.

    

3.00%, 02/15/2027

    143,000        129,445  

7.30%, 11/15/2039

    120,000        153,500  

8.70%, 06/15/2038

    50,000        69,764  

WestRock Co.
3.75%, 03/15/2025 (A)

    100,000        98,037  
    

 

 

 
       450,746  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.1%  

Nationwide Building Society
4.00%, 09/14/2026 (A)

    250,000        233,501  

President & Fellows of Harvard College
3.30%, 07/15/2056

    214,000        194,862  
    

 

 

 
       428,363  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.7%  

AerCap Ireland Capital DAC / AerCap Global Aviation Trust

    

3.30%, 01/23/2023

    157,000        150,906  

3.50%, 01/15/2025

    180,000        168,856  

Aviation Capital Group LLC
3.50%, 11/01/2027 (A)

    150,000        137,347  

Blackstone Holdings Finance Co. LLC

    

4.45%, 07/15/2045 (A)

    44,000        42,311  

5.88%, 03/15/2021 (A)

    170,000        180,723  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Diversified Financial Services (continued)  

BOC Aviation, Ltd.
2.75%, 09/18/2022 (A)

    $   200,000        $   190,102  

Brookfield Finance, Inc.

    

3.90%, 01/25/2028

    84,000        79,411  

4.70%, 09/20/2047

    123,000        116,398  

Carlyle Investment Management LLC
3-Month LIBOR + 2.00%, 4.34% (D), 07/15/2019 (C)(H)

    17,961        17,848  

CDP Financial, Inc.
4.40%, 11/25/2019 (A)

    250,000        255,643  

China Southern Power Grid International Finance BVI Co., Ltd.
3.50%, 05/08/2027 (A)

    240,000        228,662  

GE Capital International Funding Co. Unlimited Co.
4.42%, 11/15/2035

    1,431,000        1,386,324  

Jefferies Group LLC
6.45%, 06/08/2027

    56,000        60,424  

Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance Co., Ltd.
2.65%, 09/19/2022 (A)

    200,000        191,796  

National Rural Utilities Cooperative
Finance Corp.
2.95%, 02/07/2024

    57,000        55,055  

ORIX Corp.
2.90%, 07/18/2022

    101,000        98,261  

Private Export Funding Corp.
3.55%, 01/15/2024

    150,000        154,079  

Protective Life Global Funding

    

2.00%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    200,000        191,465  

2.70%, 11/25/2020 (A)

    250,000        246,653  

Voya Financial, Inc.
3.65%, 06/15/2026

    95,000        89,863  
    

 

 

 
       4,042,127  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.8%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3.95%, 01/15/2025

    295,000        288,518  

4.13%, 02/17/2026

    185,000        180,822  

4.30%, 02/15/2030 (A)

    596,000        562,568  

4.30%, 12/15/2042

    148,000        125,778  

4.35%, 06/15/2045

    49,000        41,510  

4.50%, 05/15/2035

    525,000        485,596  

4.90%, 08/15/2037 (A)

    374,000        354,903  

5.25%, 03/01/2037

    100,000        98,355  

5.35%, 09/01/2040

    203,000        198,119  

5.80%, 02/15/2019

    53,000        53,910  

6.38%, 03/01/2041

    100,000        109,022  

British Telecommunications PLC
9.63%, 12/15/2030

    150,000        214,304  

Centel Capital Corp.
9.00%, 10/15/2019

    40,000        42,200  

Deutsche Telekom International Finance BV
2.82%, 01/19/2022 (A)

    150,000        145,657  

GTP Acquisition Partners I LLC

    

2.35%, 06/15/2045 (A)

    39,000        38,266  

3.48%, 06/15/2050 (A)

    41,000        39,991  

Qwest Corp.
6.75%, 12/01/2021

    148,000        157,487  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Diversified Telecommunication Services (continued)  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

4.27%, 01/15/2036

    $   330,000        $   304,425  

4.40%, 11/01/2034

    568,000        529,735  

4.81%, 03/15/2039

    700,000        676,869  

5.01%, 08/21/2054

    33,000        31,009  

5.25%, 03/16/2037

    183,000        187,941  
    

 

 

 
         4,866,985  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 1.4%  

AEP Transmission Co. LLC
4.00%, 12/01/2046

    93,000        90,808  

Alabama Power Co.

    

3.75%, 03/01/2045

    52,000        48,414  

4.10%, 01/15/2042

    66,000        64,992  

5.60%, 03/15/2033

    100,000        115,802  

6.13%, 05/15/2038

    11,000        13,808  

Appalachian Power Co.
6.70%, 08/15/2037

    50,000        64,889  

Baltimore Gas & Electric Co.

    

2.80%, 08/15/2022

    95,000        92,853  

3.50%, 08/15/2046

    94,000        84,107  

Berkshire Hathaway Energy Co.

    

2.40%, 02/01/2020

    82,000        81,332  

3.50%, 02/01/2025

    104,000        103,243  

6.13%, 04/01/2036

    74,000        91,264  

Commonwealth Edison Co.
3.65%, 06/15/2046

    81,000        74,678  

Connecticut Light & Power Co.
4.00%, 04/01/2048

    118,000        117,416  

Duke Energy Carolinas LLC

    

4.25%, 12/15/2041

    21,000        21,399  

6.00%, 12/01/2028 - 01/15/2038

    148,000        175,610  

Duke Energy Corp.
2.65%, 09/01/2026

    149,000        134,200  

Duke Energy Indiana LLC
3.75%, 05/15/2046

    100,000        94,489  

Duke Energy Progress LLC

    

3.70%, 10/15/2046

    124,000        114,121  

4.10%, 05/15/2042 - 03/15/2043

    107,000        106,994  

4.15%, 12/01/2044

    65,000        64,148  

Edison International

    

2.95%, 03/15/2023

    100,000        96,068  

4.13%, 03/15/2028

    65,000        63,999  

Electricite de France SA

    

2.15%, 01/22/2019 (A)

    80,000        79,758  

2.35%, 10/13/2020 (A)

    80,000        78,469  

6.00%, 01/22/2114 (A)

    150,000        156,351  

Enel Finance International NV

    

3.50%, 04/06/2028 (A)

    200,000        179,715  

3.63%, 05/25/2027 (A)

    220,000        201,237  

Entergy Arkansas, Inc.
3.50%, 04/01/2026

    57,000        56,231  

Entergy Corp.
2.95%, 09/01/2026

    78,000        71,167  

Entergy Louisiana LLC

    

2.40%, 10/01/2026

    118,000        107,030  

3.05%, 06/01/2031

    94,000        86,431  

Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
2.85%, 06/01/2028

    83,000        76,087  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Electric Utilities (continued)  

Exelon Corp.

    

3.40%, 04/15/2026

    $   63,000        $   59,836  

3.50%, 06/01/2022

    130,000        128,496  

FirstEnergy Corp.
4.85%, 07/15/2047

    53,000        54,191  

Florida Power & Light Co.

    

4.95%, 06/01/2035

    60,000        66,698  

5.95%, 02/01/2038

    50,000        62,491  

Fortis, Inc.
3.06%, 10/04/2026

    500,000        455,552  

Georgia Power Co.
3.25%, 04/01/2026

    65,000        62,067  

Hydro-Quebec
9.40%, 02/01/2021

    250,000        288,422  

Indiana Michigan Power Co.

    

3.20%, 03/15/2023

    125,000        123,011  

7.00%, 03/15/2019

    30,000        30,885  

Jersey Central Power & Light Co.

    

6.15%, 06/01/2037

    70,000        83,378  

7.35%, 02/01/2019

    15,000        15,357  

John Sevier Combined Cycle Generation LLC
4.63%, 01/15/2042

    63,087        65,704  

Kansas City Power & Light Co.

    

3.15%, 03/15/2023

    71,000        69,320  

5.30%, 10/01/2041

    100,000        112,721  

Korea Southern Power Co., Ltd.
3.00%, 01/29/2021 (A)

    200,000        197,085  

Massachusetts Electric Co.
4.00%, 08/15/2046 (A)

    105,000        100,238  

Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission LLC
4.10%, 05/15/2028 (A)

    110,000        109,984  

Nevada Power Co.

    

5.38%, 09/15/2040

    92,000        107,302  

5.45%, 05/15/2041

    50,000        57,261  

6.50%, 08/01/2018

    50,000        50,143  

7.13%, 03/15/2019

    140,000        144,324  

New England Power Co.
3.80%, 12/05/2047 (A)

    95,000        90,896  

New York State Electric & Gas Corp.
3.25%, 12/01/2026 (A)

    95,000        91,151  

NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc.

    

1.65%, 09/01/2018

    85,000        84,813  

2.40%, 09/15/2019

    53,000        52,585  

Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.

    

3.51%, 10/01/2024 (A)

    141,000        140,961  

4.88%, 08/15/2019 (A)

    40,000        40,751  

Northern States Power Co.
6.25%, 06/01/2036

    40,000        49,745  

Ohio Power Co.
5.38%, 10/01/2021

    50,000        53,253  

Oncor Electric Delivery Co. LLC

    

6.80%, 09/01/2018

    65,000        65,408  

7.00%, 09/01/2022

    50,000        56,960  

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

    

3.50%, 06/15/2025

    94,000        87,693  

4.45%, 04/15/2042

    17,000        15,405  

4.50%, 12/15/2041

    96,000        86,266  

6.05%, 03/01/2034 (F)

    250,000        269,968  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Electric Utilities (continued)  

PacifiCorp

    

2.95%, 02/01/2022

    $   100,000        $   98,960  

3.60%, 04/01/2024

    105,000        105,772  

5.65%, 07/15/2018

    25,000        25,026  

Pennsylvania Electric Co.
3.25%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    38,000        35,430  

PPL Capital Funding, Inc.
3.40%, 06/01/2023

    70,000        68,848  

Progress Energy, Inc.
3.15%, 04/01/2022

    54,000        53,270  

Public Service Electric & Gas Co.

    

1.80%, 06/01/2019, MTN

    30,000        29,741  

5.38%, 11/01/2039, MTN

    14,000        16,515  

South Carolina Electric & Gas Co.
6.05%, 01/15/2038

    70,000        79,448  

Southern California Edison Co.

    

1.85%, 02/01/2022

    40,000        39,013  

3.90%, 12/01/2041

    30,000        27,803  

5.55%, 01/15/2036

    70,000        78,689  

6.05%, 03/15/2039

    60,000        73,516  

Southern Co.
3.25%, 07/01/2026

    91,000        85,419  

Southern Power Co.
5.15%, 09/15/2041

    130,000        132,132  

Southwestern Public Service Co.
4.50%, 08/15/2041

    100,000        103,965  

Toledo Edison Co.
6.15%, 05/15/2037

    200,000        243,825  

Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association, Inc.
4.25%, 06/01/2046

    62,000        58,512  

Virginia Electric & Power Co.

    

2.95%, 01/15/2022

    27,000        26,703  

3.45%, 02/15/2024

    21,000        20,834  

4.45%, 02/15/2044

    28,000        28,445  

Wisconsin Electric Power Co.

    

2.95%, 09/15/2021

    2,000        1,988  

3.10%, 06/01/2025

    82,000        79,307  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    

4.80%, 09/15/2041

    9,000        9,605  

6.50%, 07/01/2036

    71,000        91,066  
    

 

 

 
       8,251,263  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.0% (E)  

Eaton Corp.

    

4.00%, 11/02/2032

    21,000        20,904  

5.80%, 03/15/2037

    100,000        115,916  

7.63%, 04/01/2024

    75,000        88,361  
    

 

 

 
       225,181  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.0% (E)  

Arrow Electronics, Inc.

    

3.25%, 09/08/2024

    66,000        61,698  

3.88%, 01/12/2028

    155,000        145,250  

4.50%, 03/01/2023

    30,000        30,484  
    

 

 

 
       237,432  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.1%  

Baker Hughes a GE Co. LLC
5.13%, 09/15/2040

    100,000        107,190  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Energy Equipment & Services (continued)  

Halliburton Co.

    

3.50%, 08/01/2023

    $   157,000        $   156,324  

7.45%, 09/15/2039

    50,000        65,585  

7.60%, 08/15/2096 (A)

    50,000        62,757  

Schlumberger Holdings Corp.
3.63%, 12/21/2022 (A)

    220,000        220,022  

Schlumberger Investment SA
3.30%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    41,000        41,025  

Texas Eastern Transmission, LP

    

2.80%, 10/15/2022 (A)

    81,000        77,445  

3.50%, 01/15/2028 (A)

    37,000        34,839  
    

 

 

 
       765,187  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.2%  

American Tower Corp.

    

3.38%, 10/15/2026

    100,000        92,558  

3.50%, 01/31/2023

    141,000        138,700  

5.00%, 02/15/2024

    86,000        89,185  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

    

2.85%, 03/15/2023, MTN

    330,000        319,343  

3.50%, 11/15/2024, MTN

    50,000        49,249  

Boston Properties, LP

    

3.20%, 01/15/2025

    100,000        95,179  

3.65%, 02/01/2026

    74,000        71,373  

Brixmor Operating Partnership, LP
3.85%, 02/01/2025

    200,000        192,899  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    

4.00%, 03/01/2027

    47,000        45,245  

5.25%, 01/15/2023

    70,000        73,349  

DDR Corp.
3.63%, 02/01/2025

    198,000        187,884  

Digital Realty Trust, LP
3.70%, 08/15/2027

    77,000        73,175  

Duke Realty, LP
3.25%, 06/30/2026

    43,000        40,330  

EPR Properties

    

4.50%, 06/01/2027

    137,000        130,846  

4.95%, 04/15/2028

    105,000        102,728  

Equity Commonwealth
5.88%, 09/15/2020

    312,000        322,204  

ERP Operating, LP

    

2.85%, 11/01/2026

    138,000        128,076  

3.00%, 04/15/2023

    50,000        48,793  

3.50%, 03/01/2028

    92,000        88,813  

4.63%, 12/15/2021

    46,000        47,681  

GAIF Bond Issuer Pty, Ltd.
3.40%, 09/30/2026 (A)

    174,000        162,808  

Goodman US Finance Three LLC
3.70%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    108,000        101,876  

Government Properties Income Trust

    

3.75%, 08/15/2019

    860,000        861,077  

4.00%, 07/15/2022

    196,000        193,682  

HCP, Inc.

    

3.40%, 02/01/2025

    95,000        89,823  

3.88%, 08/15/2024

    310,000        303,172  

4.20%, 03/01/2024

    30,000        29,980  

Liberty Property, LP
3.25%, 10/01/2026

    53,000        49,355  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (continued)  

National Retail Properties, Inc.

    

3.60%, 12/15/2026

    $   144,000        $   136,317  

4.00%, 11/15/2025

    204,000        200,144  

Realty Income Corp.

    

3.25%, 10/15/2022

    390,000        383,945  

3.88%, 04/15/2025

    160,000        157,750  

4.65%, 03/15/2047

    75,000        75,587  

Scentre Group Trust 1 / Scentre Group Trust 2

    

2.38%, 11/05/2019 (A)

    188,000        185,623  

3.50%, 02/12/2025 (A)

    300,000        289,300  

Select Income REIT
3.60%, 02/01/2020

    150,000        149,201  

Senior Housing Properties Trust

    

3.25%, 05/01/2019

    170,000        169,881  

4.75%, 02/15/2028

    150,000        144,918  

Simon Property Group, LP
3.75%, 02/01/2024

    200,000        199,337  

UDR, Inc.
2.95%, 09/01/2026, MTN

    72,000        66,014  

Ventas Realty, LP

    

3.50%, 02/01/2025

    54,000        51,707  

3.75%, 05/01/2024

    214,000        210,553  

3.85%, 04/01/2027

    98,000        94,043  

4.13%, 01/15/2026

    45,000        44,275  

VEREIT Operating Partnership, LP
4.60%, 02/06/2024

    320,000        320,119  

Welltower, Inc.
4.50%, 01/15/2024

    73,000        74,230  
    

 

 

 
       7,082,327  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.2%  

CK Hutchison International 16, Ltd.
1.88%, 10/03/2021 (A)

    241,000        228,997  

CVS Pass-Through Trust
5.93%, 01/10/2034 (A)

    222,504        239,333  

Kroger Co.
5.40%, 07/15/2040

    12,000        12,269  

Sysco Corp.

    

3.55%, 03/15/2025

    105,000        102,897  

3.75%, 10/01/2025

    75,000        74,003  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    

3.80%, 11/18/2024

    100,000        98,576  

4.50%, 11/18/2034

    185,000        173,734  
    

 

 

 
       929,809  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.2%  

Campbell Soup Co.
3.95%, 03/15/2025

    250,000        241,049  

Cargill, Inc.
3.30%, 03/01/2022 (A) (F)

    70,000        70,058  

General Mills, Inc.

    

4.00%, 04/17/2025

    165,000        162,497  

4.20%, 04/17/2028

    110,000        107,400  

4.55%, 04/17/2038

    45,000        42,942  

Kellogg Co.
3.40%, 11/15/2027

    48,000        44,868  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.

    

5.00%, 06/04/2042

    59,000        56,328  

6.88%, 01/26/2039

    162,000        191,007  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Food Products (continued)  

McCormick & Co., Inc.

    

3.15%, 08/15/2024

    $   90,000        $   86,017  

3.40%, 08/15/2027

    132,000        124,800  

Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.
4.60%, 06/01/2044 (F)

    70,000        72,982  

Tyson Foods, Inc.
3.95%, 08/15/2024

    146,000        145,707  
    

 

 

 
       1,345,655  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.3%  

Atmos Energy Corp.

    

4.13%, 10/15/2044

    75,000        75,695  

4.15%, 01/15/2043

    138,000        138,856  

8.50%, 03/15/2019

    35,000        36,341  

Boston Gas Co.
4.49%, 02/15/2042 (A)

    26,000        26,783  

Brooklyn Union Gas Co.
4.27%, 03/15/2048 (A)

    150,000        149,371  

CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp.
5.85%, 01/15/2041

    100,000        119,329  

Dominion Energy Gas Holdings LLC
2.80%, 11/15/2020

    59,000        58,293  

KeySpan Gas East Corp.
2.74%, 08/15/2026 (A)

    90,000        83,289  

Korea Gas Corp.
1.88%, 07/18/2021 (A)

    200,000        190,105  

Southern Co. Gas Capital Corp.

    

2.45%, 10/01/2023

    48,000        45,135  

3.25%, 06/15/2026

    39,000        37,014  

3.50%, 09/15/2021

    75,000        75,013  

3.95%, 10/01/2046

    59,000        54,256  

4.40%, 06/01/2043

    63,000        61,727  

5.88%, 03/15/2041

    146,000        169,636  

Southwest Gas Corp.
3.80%, 09/29/2046

    111,000        104,888  
    

 

 

 
       1,425,731  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.1%  

Abbott Laboratories

    

2.80%, 09/15/2020

    130,000        129,016  

3.88%, 09/15/2025 (F)

    129,000        128,586  

Becton Dickinson and Co.
3.73%, 12/15/2024

    19,000        18,549  

Covidien International Finance SA
2.95%, 06/15/2023

    85,000        83,365  

Medtronic, Inc.

    

3.13%, 03/15/2022

    90,000        89,320  

4.38%, 03/15/2035

    255,000        263,721  

Stryker Corp.
3.50%, 03/15/2026

    38,000        36,893  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.
3.70%, 03/19/2023

    73,000        72,479  
    

 

 

 
       821,929  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.7%  

Aetna, Inc.

    

2.80%, 06/15/2023

    75,000        71,462  

4.50%, 05/15/2042

    26,000        25,499  

6.75%, 12/15/2037

    50,000        63,249  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Health Care Providers & Services (continued)  

Anthem, Inc.

    

2.30%, 07/15/2018

    $   70,000        $   69,991  

3.30%, 01/15/2023

    28,000        27,507  

4.63%, 05/15/2042

    50,000        48,467  

4.65%, 01/15/2043 - 08/15/2044

    184,000        178,341  

CVS Health Corp.

    

2.75%, 12/01/2022

    100,000        95,842  

4.00%, 12/05/2023

    223,000        223,928  

4.10%, 03/25/2025

    949,000        943,972  

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    254,000        250,548  

4.78%, 03/25/2038

    375,000        368,839  

5.05%, 03/25/2048

    209,000        212,699  

Express Scripts Holding Co.

    

3.00%, 07/15/2023

    76,000        72,091  

3.50%, 06/15/2024

    150,000        143,971  

4.50%, 02/25/2026

    285,000        282,934  

4.80%, 07/15/2046

    93,000        88,436  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
3.20%, 02/01/2022

    249,000        246,319  

Magellan Health, Inc.
4.40%, 09/22/2024

    333,000        325,881  

Providence St. Joseph Health Obligated Group
2.75%, 10/01/2026

    84,000        78,399  

Quest Diagnostics, Inc.
3.45%, 06/01/2026

    39,000        37,090  

Texas Health Resources
4.33%, 11/15/2055

    250,000        257,313  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    

2.88%, 03/15/2023

    50,000        48,725  

4.63%, 07/15/2035

    140,000        147,242  
    

 

 

 
       4,308,745  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.1%  

McDonald’s Corp.

    

4.70%, 12/09/2035, MTN

    105,000        109,421  

6.30%, 10/15/2037, MTN

    63,000        77,132  

Starbucks Corp.
4.30%, 06/15/2045

    109,000        103,734  
    

 

 

 
       290,287  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.0% (E)  

Newell Brands, Inc.
2.60%, 03/29/2019

    32,000        31,887  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.0% (E)  

Kimberly-Clark Corp.
2.40%, 03/01/2022 (F)

    20,000        19,438  

Procter & Gamble Co.
2.70%, 02/02/2026

    200,000        189,915  
    

 

 

 
       209,353  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.0% (E)  

Exelon Generation Co. LLC
6.25%, 10/01/2039

    150,000        158,792  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.0% (E)  

Roper Technologies, Inc.
3.00%, 12/15/2020

    42,000        41,697  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 1.3%  

AIG SunAmerica Global Financing X
6.90%, 03/15/2032 (A)

    200,000        258,525  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Allstate Corp.

    

3.15%, 06/15/2023

    $   41,000        $   40,592  

5.35%, 06/01/2033

    50,000        56,136  

American International Group, Inc.

    

3.75%, 07/10/2025

    81,000        78,240  

3.88%, 01/15/2035

    211,000        187,710  

4.13%, 02/15/2024

    71,000        71,327  

4.20%, 04/01/2028

    55,000        53,810  

4.70%, 07/10/2035

    100,000        97,282  

Aon Corp.
6.25%, 09/30/2040

    18,000        21,590  

Aon PLC
3.50%, 06/14/2024

    100,000        97,273  

Assurant, Inc.
4.20%, 09/27/2023

    225,000        224,858  

Athene Global Funding

    

2.75%, 04/20/2020 (A)

    246,000        243,015  

4.00%, 01/25/2022 (A)

    191,000        192,369  

Athene Holding, Ltd.
4.13%, 01/12/2028

    250,000        230,540  

Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corp.

    

4.30%, 05/15/2043

    83,000        83,611  

4.40%, 05/15/2042

    221,000        225,833  

Chubb INA Holdings, Inc.
3.35%, 05/03/2026

    50,000        48,479  

CNA Financial Corp.

    

3.45%, 08/15/2027

    150,000        139,491  

3.95%, 05/15/2024

    26,000        25,996  

Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
Fixed until 07/24/2026, 4.00% (D), 07/24/2026 (A) (I)

    207,000        193,027  

Great-West Lifeco Finance Delaware, LP
4.15%, 06/03/2047 (A)

    200,000        187,856  

Guardian Life Insurance Co. of America
4.85%, 01/24/2077 (A)

    42,000        40,943  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
4.30%, 04/15/2043

    200,000        188,471  

Jackson National Life Global Funding

    

3.05%, 04/29/2026 (A)

    245,000        231,997  

3.25%, 01/30/2024 (A)

    58,000        56,860  

Liberty Mutual Group, Inc.

    

4.95%, 05/01/2022 (A)

    47,000        48,803  

6.50%, 03/15/2035 (A)

    230,000        274,698  

Lincoln National Corp.

    

4.00%, 09/01/2023

    150,000        151,231  

6.15%, 04/07/2036

    8,000        9,174  

Manulife Financial Corp.
Fixed until 02/24/2027, 4.06% (D), 02/24/2032

    270,000        256,061  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    

2.75%, 01/30/2022

    24,000        23,461  

3.30%, 03/14/2023

    17,000        16,804  

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.

    

5.38%, 12/01/2041 (A)

    26,000        29,940  

7.63%, 11/15/2023 (A)

    250,000        286,762  

MassMutual Global Funding II
2.50%, 10/17/2022 (A) (F)

    100,000        96,658  

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I

    

3.00%, 09/19/2027 (A)

    350,000        328,407  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I (continued)

    

3.88%, 04/11/2022 (A)

    $   200,000        $   202,957  

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.
9.38%, 08/15/2039 (A)

    245,000        383,624  

New York Life Global Funding
3.00%, 01/10/2028 (A)

    162,000        151,957  

OneBeacon US Holdings, Inc.
4.60%, 11/09/2022

    200,000        201,768  

Pacific Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 10/24/2047, 4.30% (D), 10/24/2067 (A)

    124,000        112,585  

Principal Life Global Funding II
2.38%, 11/21/2021 (A)

    300,000        290,333  

Progressive Corp.
Fixed until 03/15/2023, 5.38% (D), 03/15/2023 (I)

    140,000        139,300  

Prudential Financial, Inc.
3.91%, 12/07/2047

    126,000        113,340  

Prudential Insurance Co. of America
8.30%, 07/01/2025 (A)

    450,000        560,879  

Reliance Standard Life Global Funding II

    

2.50%, 01/15/2020 (A)

    100,000        98,951  

3.05%, 01/20/2021 (A)

    101,000        99,828  

Teachers Insurance & Annuity Association of America

    

4.27%, 05/15/2047 (A)

    100,000        95,633  

4.90%, 09/15/2044 (A)

    100,000        105,268  
    

 

 

 
       7,354,253  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.1%  

Amazon.com, Inc.

    

2.80%, 08/22/2024

    197,000        189,817  

3.88%, 08/22/2037

    230,000        224,506  

4.25%, 08/22/2057

    300,000        295,810  
    

 

 

 
       710,133  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.1%  

Amazon.com, Inc.
4.80%, 12/05/2034

    157,000        172,015  

Booking Holdings, Inc.
2.75%, 03/15/2023

    143,000        137,965  
    

 

 

 
       309,980  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 0.1%  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.
3.60%, 01/19/2028 (A)

    330,000        312,187  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.1%  

DXC Technology Co.
4.25%, 04/15/2024

    86,000        85,906  

IBM Credit LLC

    

2.65%, 02/05/2021

    200,000        198,105  

3.00%, 02/06/2023 (F)

    300,000        293,367  

Western Union Co.
3.60%, 03/15/2022

    200,000        198,626  
    

 

 

 
       776,004  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.0% (E)  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    

2.95%, 09/19/2026

    77,000        71,134  

3.00%, 04/15/2023

    57,000        55,421  

4.15%, 02/01/2024

    34,000        34,510  
    

 

 

 
       161,065  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Machinery - 0.2%  

Caterpillar Financial Services Corp.

    

1.93%, 10/01/2021

    $   118,000        $   113,320  

2.85%, 06/01/2022, MTN

    46,000        45,186  

3.25%, 12/01/2024, MTN

    130,000        127,817  

Caterpillar, Inc.
2.60%, 06/26/2022

    35,000        34,045  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    

3.50%, 03/01/2024

    100,000        101,468  

4.88%, 09/15/2041

    280,000        314,173  

Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Finance SA
2.63%, 05/01/2020

    80,000        79,324  

Nvent Finance Sarl
4.55%, 04/15/2028 (A)

    187,000        183,479  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    

4.10%, 03/01/2047

    58,000        57,096  

4.45%, 11/21/2044, MTN

    85,000        88,705  

Xylem, Inc.
3.25%, 11/01/2026

    33,000        31,022  
    

 

 

 
       1,175,635  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.9%  

21st Century Fox America, Inc.

    

6.15%, 02/15/2041

    150,000        179,246  

6.55%, 03/15/2033

    100,000        119,387  

6.65%, 11/15/2037

    50,000        62,063  

7.30%, 04/30/2028

    50,000        60,458  

8.88%, 04/26/2023

    80,000        96,359  

9.50%, 07/15/2024

    70,000        90,100  

CBS Corp.

    

3.70%, 08/15/2024

    287,000        279,160  

4.00%, 01/15/2026

    83,000        80,493  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital

    

4.91%, 07/23/2025

    517,000        522,110  

5.38%, 04/01/2038

    105,000        99,188  

6.38%, 10/23/2035

    92,000        96,141  

6.83%, 10/23/2055

    125,000        134,013  

Comcast Corp.

    

3.20%, 07/15/2036

    200,000        166,390  

4.00%, 11/01/2049

    150,000        131,842  

4.20%, 08/15/2034

    267,000        254,967  

4.25%, 01/15/2033

    173,000        168,943  

6.50%, 11/15/2035

    486,000        577,820  

Cox Communications, Inc.

    

3.25%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    55,000        53,425  

4.80%, 02/01/2035 (A)

    350,000        322,298  

Discovery Communications LLC

    

4.38%, 06/15/2021

    80,000        81,774  

6.35%, 06/01/2040

    200,000        217,432  

NBCUniversal Media LLC
4.38%, 04/01/2021

    50,000        51,296  

SES SA
3.60%, 04/04/2023 (A)

    100,000        97,130  

Time Warner Cable LLC

    

6.75%, 07/01/2018

    60,000        60,000  

7.30%, 07/01/2038

    100,000        113,351  

8.75%, 02/14/2019

    50,000        51,668  

Time Warner Entertainment Co., LP
8.38%, 07/15/2033

    225,000        277,793  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Media (continued)  

Viacom, Inc.

    

3.88%, 04/01/2024 (F)

    $   128,000        $   123,840  

4.38%, 03/15/2043

    93,000        78,031  

6.88%, 04/30/2036

    150,000        162,077  

Warner Media LLC

    

3.55%, 06/01/2024

    425,000        409,804  

3.60%, 07/15/2025

    260,000        247,213  
    

 

 

 
       5,465,812  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.2%  

Anglo American Capital PLC
4.00%, 09/11/2027 (A)

    200,000        186,204  

Barrick Gold Corp.
6.45%, 10/15/2035

    40,000        47,622  

BHP Billiton Finance USA, Ltd.
5.00%, 09/30/2043

    50,000        56,101  

Nucor Corp.
6.40%, 12/01/2037

    210,000        264,178  

Vale Canada, Ltd.
7.20%, 09/15/2032

    220,000        238,700  

Vale Overseas, Ltd.
6.25%, 08/10/2026

    40,000        43,320  
    

 

 

 
       836,125  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.5%  

Black Hills Corp.
2.50%, 01/11/2019

    270,000        269,356  

CMS Energy Corp.

    

2.95%, 02/15/2027

    97,000        88,749  

3.00%, 05/15/2026

    73,000        68,221  

3.88%, 03/01/2024

    100,000        100,293  

Consumers Energy Co.

    

2.85%, 05/15/2022

    20,000        19,709  

3.25%, 08/15/2046

    48,000        41,986  

6.13%, 03/15/2019

    100,000        102,143  

Delmarva Power & Light Co.

    

4.00%, 06/01/2042

    47,000        45,295  

4.15%, 05/15/2045

    150,000        149,206  

Dominion Energy, Inc.

    

1.60%, 08/15/2019

    60,000        59,074  

2.75%, 01/15/2022

    93,000        90,191  

2.85%, 08/15/2026

    61,000        55,237  

5.25%, 08/01/2033

    100,000        106,716  

DTE Electric Co.

    

2.65%, 06/15/2022

    20,000        19,484  

3.70%, 03/15/2045

    123,000        115,520  

NiSource, Inc.

    

5.80%, 02/01/2042

    118,000        135,745  

6.25%, 12/15/2040

    260,000        308,167  

Public Service Co. of Colorado

    

3.55%, 06/15/2046

    53,000        48,071  

5.80%, 08/01/2018

    20,000        20,050  

6.50%, 08/01/2038

    45,000        59,745  

Public Service Co. of Oklahoma

    

4.40%, 02/01/2021

    30,000        30,886  

6.63%, 11/15/2037

    150,000        191,980  

San Diego Gas & Electric Co.

    

3.95%, 11/15/2041

    44,000        43,162  

6.00%, 06/01/2026

    50,000        56,628  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Multi-Utilities (continued)  

Sempra Energy

    

2.88%, 10/01/2022

    $   70,000        $   67,824  

3.55%, 06/15/2024

    165,000        161,594  

4.05%, 12/01/2023

    72,000        72,911  

9.80%, 02/15/2019

    50,000        52,027  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.
3.55%, 06/15/2025

    144,000        141,406  
    

 

 

 
       2,721,376  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.0% (E)  

Dollar General Corp.
4.13%, 05/01/2028

    85,000        83,342  

Nordstrom, Inc.
4.00%, 10/15/2021

    35,000        35,278  
    

 

 

 
       118,620  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.6%  

Anadarko Finance Co.
7.50%, 05/01/2031

    100,000        123,869  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
8.70%, 03/15/2019

    80,000        83,110  

Andeavor Logistics, LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.
4.25%, 12/01/2027

    107,000        102,495  

Apache Corp.

    

2.63%, 01/15/2023

    100,000        94,911  

3.25%, 04/15/2022

    14,000        13,762  

4.75%, 04/15/2043

    57,000        54,173  

6.00%, 01/15/2037

    100,000        109,031  

APT Pipelines, Ltd.
4.25%, 07/15/2027 (A)

    191,000        187,182  

BP Capital Markets PLC

    

3.54%, 11/04/2024

    300,000        297,686  

3.81%, 02/10/2024

    116,000        117,184  

Buckeye Partners, LP

    

3.95%, 12/01/2026

    23,000        20,868  

4.88%, 02/01/2021

    300,000        305,251  

5.85%, 11/15/2043

    100,000        96,377  

Canadian Natural Resources, Ltd.

    

3.80%, 04/15/2024

    100,000        99,113  

5.85%, 02/01/2035

    70,000        77,800  

6.45%, 06/30/2033

    264,000        309,204  

7.20%, 01/15/2032

    20,000        24,666  

Cenovus Energy, Inc.
6.75%, 11/15/2039

    219,000        240,497  

Chevron Corp.

    

1.79%, 11/16/2018

    151,000        150,658  

2.36%, 12/05/2022

    60,000        57,362  

2.57%, 05/16/2023

    400,000        385,502  

2.90%, 03/03/2024

    54,000        52,527  

CNOOC Finance Pty, Ltd.
2.63%, 05/05/2020

    230,000        227,013  

CNOOC Finance USA LLC
3.50%, 05/05/2025

    235,000        226,456  

Ecopetrol SA

    

4.13%, 01/16/2025 (F)

    100,000        97,000  

5.38%, 06/26/2026

    116,000        119,016  

5.88%, 09/18/2023

    71,000        75,260  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Enable Midstream Partners, LP
4.95%, 05/15/2028

    $   80,000        $   77,771  

Enbridge, Inc.

    

3.70%, 07/15/2027

    65,000        61,595  

4.50%, 06/10/2044

    100,000        91,651  

Fixed until 03/01/2028, 6.25% (D), 03/01/2078

    150,000        141,104  

Encana Corp.

    

6.50%, 05/15/2019

    40,000        41,114  

7.20%, 11/01/2031

    110,000        132,711  

8.13%, 09/15/2030

    100,000        127,727  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP

    

3.60%, 02/01/2023

    94,000        91,835  

4.05%, 03/15/2025

    123,000        118,844  

4.75%, 01/15/2026

    87,000        86,260  

4.90%, 02/01/2024

    199,000        202,124  

6.05%, 06/01/2041

    225,000        224,706  

6.50%, 02/01/2042

    39,000        40,182  

Eni SpA
5.70%, 10/01/2040 (A)

    125,000        135,509  

Eni USA, Inc.
7.30%, 11/15/2027

    70,000        84,356  

EnLink Midstream Partners, LP
2.70%, 04/01/2019

    131,000        129,723  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC

    

3.75%, 02/15/2025

    110,000        108,927  

3.90%, 02/15/2024

    158,000        158,211  

4.85%, 03/15/2044

    36,000        35,837  

4.95%, 10/15/2054

    46,000        44,968  

5.10%, 02/15/2045

    39,000        40,151  

5.75%, 03/01/2035

    200,000        215,331  

5.95%, 02/01/2041

    36,000        40,581  

6.65%, 10/15/2034

    100,000        120,948  

7.55%, 04/15/2038

    300,000        392,538  

EOG Resources, Inc.
2.63%, 03/15/2023

    36,000        34,559  

EQT Corp.
3.90%, 10/01/2027

    116,000        108,178  

Equinor ASA

    

2.65%, 01/15/2024 (F)

    214,000        205,209  

3.25%, 11/10/2024

    107,000        105,357  

Kerr-McGee Corp.
7.88%, 09/15/2031

    100,000        126,814  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.
4.30%, 03/01/2028

    375,000        364,309  

Magellan Midstream Partners, LP

    

3.20%, 03/15/2025

    68,000        65,488  

4.20%, 12/01/2042

    73,000        65,581  

4.25%, 02/01/2021

    167,000        170,330  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.
3.63%, 09/15/2024

    145,000        141,613  

MPLX, LP

    

4.00%, 03/15/2028

    104,000        98,912  

4.88%, 12/01/2024

    140,000        144,335  

5.20%, 03/01/2047

    54,000        53,656  

Noble Energy, Inc.

    

3.90%, 11/15/2024

    120,000        118,316  

6.00%, 03/01/2041

    200,000        219,974  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    

3.00%, 02/15/2027 (F)

    $   78,000        $   73,674  

4.63%, 06/15/2045

    39,000        40,783  

ONEOK Partners, LP

    

3.20%, 09/15/2018

    105,000        105,062  

3.38%, 10/01/2022

    30,000        29,593  

4.90%, 03/15/2025

    200,000        206,504  

5.00%, 09/15/2023

    65,000        67,530  

6.65%, 10/01/2036

    210,000        244,691  

Petro-Canada

    

6.80%, 05/15/2038

    50,000        63,727  

7.88%, 06/15/2026

    168,000        205,520  

Petroleos Mexicanos

    

4.63%, 09/21/2023

    208,000        205,088  

4.88%, 01/18/2024

    44,000        43,435  

5.35%, 02/12/2028 (A)

    99,000        93,733  

6.35%, 02/12/2048 (A)

    153,000        138,083  

6.38%, 02/04/2021 - 01/23/2045

    218,000        215,506  

6.50%, 03/13/2027

    559,000        573,210  

6.75%, 09/21/2047

    201,000        189,523  

6.88%, 08/04/2026

    357,000        375,207  

Phillips 66

    

3.90%, 03/15/2028

    140,000        136,637  

4.30%, 04/01/2022

    17,000        17,509  

Phillips 66 Partners, LP

    

3.55%, 10/01/2026

    34,000        31,794  

4.90%, 10/01/2046

    72,000        69,013  

Plains All American Pipeline, LP / PAA Finance Corp.

    

3.60%, 11/01/2024

    250,000        236,762  

4.30%, 01/31/2043

    100,000        82,609  

4.65%, 10/15/2025

    50,000        49,827  

Sinopec Capital 2013, Ltd.
3.13%, 04/24/2023 (A)

    200,000        193,537  

Sinopec Group Overseas Development, Ltd.
4.38%, 10/17/2023 (A)

    208,000        213,012  

Southern Natural Gas Co. LLC

    

4.80%, 03/15/2047 (A)

    69,000        71,659  

8.00%, 03/01/2032

    56,000        72,411  

Spectra Energy Partners, LP

    

2.95%, 09/25/2018

    80,000        80,019  

3.50%, 03/15/2025

    125,000        119,216  

5.95%, 09/25/2043

    63,000        69,228  

Suncor Energy, Inc.
5.95%, 12/01/2034

    140,000        162,789  

Sunoco Logistics Partners Operations, LP

    

4.25%, 04/01/2024

    47,000        46,555  

4.95%, 01/15/2043

    198,000        172,222  

5.30%, 04/01/2044

    50,000        45,322  

5.35%, 05/15/2045

    133,000        121,073  

5.50%, 02/15/2020

    180,000        185,400  

5.95%, 12/01/2025

    100,000        106,526  

6.10%, 02/15/2042

    150,000        150,638  

TC PipeLines, LP
3.90%, 05/25/2027

    70,000        65,816  

Total Capital International SA

    

2.75%, 06/19/2021

    250,000        248,128  

3.75%, 04/10/2024

    29,000        29,235  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.

    

4.88%, 01/15/2026

    $   162,000        $   169,413  

6.20%, 10/15/2037

    100,000        114,324  

Valero Energy Corp.
7.50%, 04/15/2032

    65,000        83,140  

Western Gas Partners, LP

    

4.00%, 07/01/2022

    69,000        68,192  

5.45%, 04/01/2044

    168,000        158,403  

Williams Partners, LP

    

3.90%, 01/15/2025

    68,000        66,336  

4.85%, 03/01/2048

    133,000        126,711  
    

 

 

 
       15,149,633  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 0.0% (E)  

Unilever Capital Corp.
3.38%, 03/22/2025 (F)

    100,000        99,363  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.4%  

Allergan Funding SCS

    

3.45%, 03/15/2022

    139,000        136,774  

3.85%, 06/15/2024

    302,000        296,564  

Allergan, Inc.
3.38%, 09/15/2020

    67,000        67,117  

Baxalta, Inc.

    

3.60%, 06/23/2022

    67,000        66,311  

5.25%, 06/23/2045

    28,000        28,891  

Bayer US Finance LLC
3.38%, 10/08/2024 (A)

    200,000        192,728  

Johnson & Johnson

    

3.40%, 01/15/2038

    247,000        233,290  

4.38%, 12/05/2033

    46,000        49,296  

Merck & Co., Inc.
3.70%, 02/10/2045

    20,000        19,014  

Mylan NV

    

2.50%, 06/07/2019

    89,000        88,595  

3.95%, 06/15/2026

    70,000        66,850  

Mylan, Inc.
5.40%, 11/29/2043

    50,000        49,444  

Pfizer, Inc.
1.45%, 06/03/2019 (F)

    159,000        157,404  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC

    

2.40%, 09/23/2021

    210,000        201,046  

2.88%, 09/23/2023

    111,000        104,428  

Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Netherlands III BV

    

1.70%, 07/19/2019

    145,000        141,553  

2.80%, 07/21/2023

    332,000        286,765  
    

 

 

 
       2,186,070  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.1%  

Ontario Teachers’ Cadillac Fairview Properties Trust
3.88%, 03/20/2027 (A)

    325,000        321,051  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.3%  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC

    

3.00%, 03/15/2023

    50,000        49,058  

3.05%, 03/15/2022

    87,000        86,149  

3.45%, 09/15/2021

    22,000        22,162  

3.75%, 04/01/2024

    124,000        125,252  

4.38%, 09/01/2042

    88,000        88,763  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Road & Rail (continued)  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC (continued)

 

5.15%, 09/01/2043

    $   154,000        $   170,683  

6.15%, 05/01/2037

    70,000        86,255  

6.70%, 08/01/2028

    50,000        60,727  

Canadian Pacific Railway Co.

    

2.90%, 02/01/2025

    208,000        198,023  

6.13%, 09/15/2115

    57,000        68,480  

7.13%, 10/15/2031

    50,000        63,386  

CSX Corp.

    

3.95%, 05/01/2050

    42,000        37,067  

4.75%, 05/30/2042

    16,000        16,288  

5.50%, 04/15/2041

    37,000        41,124  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    

3.95%, 10/01/2042

    35,000        32,552  

4.05%, 08/15/2052

    150,000        136,797  

Ryder System, Inc.

    

2.50%, 05/11/2020, MTN

    113,000        111,666  

2.65%, 03/02/2020, MTN

    79,000        78,341  

Union Pacific Corp.
4.10%, 09/15/2067

    80,000        70,190  

Union Pacific Railroad Co. Pass-Through Trust
4.70%, 01/02/2024

    32,664        33,621  
    

 

 

 
       1,576,584  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.2%  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    

3.13%, 12/05/2023

    73,000        70,878  

4.50%, 12/05/2036

    140,000        139,522  

Broadcom Corp. / Broadcom Cayman Finance, Ltd.
3.63%, 01/15/2024

    422,000        408,499  

Intel Corp.

    

3.70%, 07/29/2025

    107,000        107,699  

4.00%, 12/15/2032

    221,000        226,841  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

    

2.60%, 01/30/2023

    17,000        16,256  

3.25%, 05/20/2027

    157,000        146,090  
    

 

 

 
       1,115,785  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.5%  

Microsoft Corp.

    

1.55%, 08/08/2021

    100,000        95,891  

2.38%, 05/01/2023

    54,000        52,174  

3.30%, 02/06/2027

    139,000        136,870  

3.50%, 02/12/2035

    185,000        179,264  

3.95%, 08/08/2056

    88,000        86,025  

4.00%, 02/12/2055

    57,000        56,550  

4.10%, 02/06/2037

    250,000        260,469  

4.20%, 11/03/2035

    103,000        108,306  

4.50%, 02/06/2057

    170,000        184,540  

4.75%, 11/03/2055

    109,000        123,918  

Oracle Corp.

    

2.95%, 11/15/2024

    500,000        482,060  

3.90%, 05/15/2035

    240,000        232,687  

4.30%, 07/08/2034

    200,000        203,873  

6.13%, 07/08/2039

    82,000        100,589  

VMware, Inc.
2.95%, 08/21/2022

    288,000        276,371  
    

 

 

 
       2,579,587  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Specialty Retail - 0.1%  

AutoZone, Inc.
2.50%, 04/15/2021

    $   100,000        $   97,579  

Home Depot, Inc.

    

2.13%, 09/15/2026

    104,000        92,760  

2.63%, 06/01/2022

    40,000        39,232  

4.20%, 04/01/2043

    121,000        121,397  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    

3.13%, 09/15/2024

    75,000        73,191  

3.38%, 09/15/2025

    119,000        116,525  

4.65%, 04/15/2042

    54,000        56,332  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc.
3.60%, 09/01/2027

    124,000        117,159  
    

 

 

 
       714,175  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.5%  

Apple, Inc.

    

2.45%, 08/04/2026

    259,000        237,721  

2.85%, 05/11/2024

    199,000        192,664  

2.90%, 09/12/2027

    274,000        257,215  

3.00%, 02/09/2024 - 06/20/2027

    604,000        585,067  

3.20%, 05/13/2025 - 05/11/2027

    335,000        325,587  

3.35%, 02/09/2027

    276,000        269,513  

3.45%, 05/06/2024 - 02/09/2045

    205,000        191,708  

3.75%, 09/12/2047

    350,000        328,026  

3.85%, 08/04/2046

    181,000        170,719  

4.50%, 02/23/2036

    85,000        91,214  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
6.02%, 06/15/2026 (A)

    390,000        409,653  

Dell, Inc.
7.10%, 04/15/2028

    25,000        26,812  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.
2.85%, 10/05/2018

    27,000        27,039  
    

 

 

 
       3,112,938  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.0% (E)  

BAT Capital Corp.
4.39%, 08/15/2037 (A)

    68,000        63,794  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.1%  

Air Lease Corp.
3.25%, 03/01/2025

    194,000        179,996  

International Lease Finance Corp.

    

5.88%, 08/15/2022

    200,000        212,101  

8.63%, 01/15/2022

    200,000        229,453  
    

 

 

 
       621,550  
    

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure - 0.1%  

Penske Truck Leasing Co., LP / PTL Finance Corp.

    

2.70%, 03/14/2023 (A)

    100,000        94,965  

3.38%, 02/01/2022 (A)

    277,000        273,025  
    

 

 

 
       367,990  
    

 

 

 
Water Utilities - 0.1%  

American Water Capital Corp.

    

3.40%, 03/01/2025

    183,000        180,509  

4.00%, 12/01/2046

    86,000        83,712  
    

 

 

 
       264,221  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.2%  

America Movil SAB de CV
6.13%, 03/30/2040

    100,000        117,091  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Wireless Telecommunication Services (continued)  

Crown Castle Towers LLC
3.22%, 05/15/2042 (A)

    $   125,000        $   122,644  

Rogers Communications, Inc.
8.75%, 05/01/2032

    50,000        67,870  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC
3.36%, 03/20/2023 (A)

    351,000        347,051  

Vodafone Group PLC

    

4.13%, 05/30/2025

    170,000        169,354  

5.00%, 05/30/2038

    307,000        302,729  

5.25%, 05/30/2048

    172,000        171,524  
    

 

 

 
       1,298,263  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $145,486,682)

 

     142,031,795  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 1.2%  
Colombia - 0.1%  

Colombia Government International Bond

    

4.00%, 02/26/2024

    200,000        199,800  

5.00%, 06/15/2045

    200,000        196,750  

7.38%, 09/18/2037

    100,000        124,500  
    

 

 

 
       521,050  
    

 

 

 
Israel - 0.8%  

Israel Government AID Bond

    

5.50%, 09/18/2033

    100,000        126,267  

Series 2007-Z,

Zero Coupon, 08/15/2025

    1,000,000        796,757  

Israel Government AID Bond, Principal Only STRIPS

    

Series 2,

11/01/2024

    3,480,000        2,863,122  

Series 2004-Z,

08/15/2023

    1,000,000        862,402  
    

 

 

 
       4,648,548  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.2%  

Mexico Government International Bond

    

3.75%, 01/11/2028

    210,000        198,555  

4.13%, 01/21/2026 (F)

    200,000        198,400  

4.35%, 01/15/2047

    104,000        92,924  

5.55%, 01/21/2045

    448,000        468,160  

4.75%, 03/08/2044, MTN

    60,000        55,674  
    

 

 

 
       1,013,713  
    

 

 

 
Panama - 0.0% (E)  

Panama Government International Bond
4.50%, 04/16/2050

    200,000        192,500  
    

 

 

 
Peru - 0.0% (E)  

Peru Government International Bond
5.63%, 11/18/2050

    36,000        41,805  
    

 

 

 
Supranational - 0.1%  

African Development Bank
8.80%, 09/01/2019

    225,000        239,487  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $6,834,140)

 

     6,657,103  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 4.3%  

Ajax Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A,
4.13% (D), 10/25/2056 (A)

    241,319        239,836  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Alternative Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-2CB, Class 1A9,

    

5.75%, 03/25/2034

    $   240,418        $   246,472  

Series 2005-28CB, Class 1A4,

    

5.50%, 08/25/2035

    174,810        168,546  

Series 2005-54CB, Class 1A11,

    

5.50%, 11/25/2035

    59,347        56,203  

Alternative Loan Trust, Interest Only STRIPS

    

Series 2005-20CB, Class 3A8,

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 4.75%, 2.66% (D), 07/25/2035

    300,877        25,649  

Series 2005-22T1, Class A2,

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.07%, 2.98% (D), 06/25/2035

    597,244        54,598  

Series 2005-J1, Class 1A4,

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.10%, 3.01% (D), 02/25/2035

    94,195        2,199  

Americold LLC
Series 2010-ARTA, Class A2FL,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.56% (D), 01/14/2029 (A)

    116,636        116,585  

BAMLL Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust

    

Series 2012-PARK, Class A,

    

2.96%, 12/10/2030 (A)

    100,000        98,299  

Series 2014-520M, Class C,

    

4.35% (D), 08/15/2046 (A)

    200,000        185,644  

BAMLL Re-REMIC Trust
Series 2015-FR11, Class A705,
1.63% (D), 09/27/2044 (A)

    846,000        838,408  

Banc of America Funding Trust
Series 2005-E, Class 4A1,
3.68% (D), 03/20/2035

    53,891        54,582  

Banc of America Funding Trust, Principal Only STRIPS

    

Series 2004-1,

03/25/2034

    20,796        17,482  

Series 2005-7, Class 30,

11/25/2035

    23,162        19,237  

Series 2005-8, Class 30,

01/25/2036

    6,547        4,939  

Banc of America Mortgage Trust
Series 2003-J, Class 3A2,
4.05% (D), 11/25/2033

    84,198        84,870  

BB-UBS Trust

    

Series 2012-SHOW, Class A,

    

3.43%, 11/05/2036 (A)

    550,000        541,113  

Series 2012-TFT, Class A,

    

2.89%, 06/05/2030 (A)

    67,000        65,546  

BCAP LLC Trust

    

Series 2010-RR7, Class 2A1,

    

3.59% (D), 07/26/2045 (A)

    62,889        62,222  

Series 2012-RR10, Class 1A1,

    

2.19% (D), 02/26/2037 (A)

    6,788        6,788  

Bear Stearns Alt-A Trust
Series 2004-6, Class 1A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.64%, 2.73% (D), 07/25/2034

    171,651        171,348  

Bear Stearns ARM Trust
Series 2006-1, Class A1,
1-Year CMT + 2.25%, 3.67% (D), 02/25/2036

    66,638        67,045  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2005-PWR9, Class C,
5.06% (D), 09/11/2042

    $   139,923        $   139,923  

CD Mortgage Trust
Series 2006-CD3, Class AM,
5.65%, 10/15/2048

    284,065        293,709  

Chase Mortgage Finance Trust

    

Series 2007-A1, Class 1A3,

    

3.88% (D), 02/25/2037

    84,821        84,700  

Series 2007-A2, Class 2A1,

    

3.62% (D), 07/25/2037

    37,774        38,453  

CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust

    

Series 2004-3, Class A26,

    

5.50%, 04/25/2034

    62,158        63,310  

Series 2004-3, Class A4,

    

5.75%, 04/25/2034

    37,295        38,260  

Series 2004-7, Class 2A1,

    

3.95% (D), 06/25/2034

    21,979        22,561  

Series 2004-8, Class 2A1,

    

4.50%, 06/25/2019

    1,826        1,837  

Series 2004-HYB1, Class 2A,

    

3.50% (D), 05/20/2034

    18,218        18,353  

Series 2005-22, Class 2A1,

    

3.45% (D), 11/25/2035

    113,403        101,165  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2003-1, Class 2A5,
5.25%, 10/25/2033

    19,234        19,503  

COMM Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2013-SFS, Class A2,

    

3.09% (D), 04/12/2035 (A)

    125,000        122,018  

Series 2014-PAT, Class A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.85% (D), 08/13/2027 (A)

    198,000        197,875  

Series 2014-TWC, Class A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.90% (D), 02/13/2032 (A)

    2,015,000        2,014,365  

Series 2014-TWC, Class B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.60%, 3.65% (D), 02/13/2032 (A)

    500,000        500,405  

Series 2015-CR25, Class A4,

    

3.76%, 08/10/2048

    422,000        425,323  

Series 2018-HOME, Class A,

    

3.82% (D), 04/10/2033 (A)

    1,160,000        1,166,690  

Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2006-GG7, Class AM,
5.95% (D), 07/10/2038

    16,490        16,493  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp.

    

Series 2003-21, Class 1A4,

    

5.25%, 09/25/2033

    25,337        26,021  

Series 2004-5, Class 3A1,

    

5.25%, 08/25/2019

    4,146        4,164  

CSFB Mortgage-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2003-27, Class 5A4,
5.25%, 11/25/2033

    34,882        35,289  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

3.21% (D), 04/25/2028

    465,000        456,469  

3.85% (D), 05/25/2028

    1,340,000        1,377,260  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. (continued)

 

Series K070, Class A2,

    

3.30% (D), 11/25/2027

    $   553,000        $   546,622  

GMAC Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc. Trust
Series 2004-C3, Class B,
4.97%, 12/10/2041

    24,441        24,469  

GS Mortgage Securities Corp. II
Series 2013-KING, Class A,
2.71%, 12/10/2027 (A)

    123,848        123,293  

GS Mortgage Securities Corp. Trust
Series 2012-ALOH, Class A,
3.55%, 04/10/2034 (A)

    750,000        755,819  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2011-GC5, Class D,
5.56% (D), 08/10/2044 (A)

    200,000        194,657  

GSMPS Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2005-RP2, Class 1AF,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (D), 03/25/2035 (A)

    157,978        147,700  

Series 2005-RP3, Class 1AF,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (D), 09/25/2035 (A)

    96,624        86,812  

GSR Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-6F, Class 2A4,

    

5.50%, 05/25/2034

    55,625        57,148  

Series 2004-8F, Class 2A3,

    

6.00%, 09/25/2034

    28,709        29,544  

Series 2005-7F, Class 3A9,

    

6.00%, 09/25/2035

    55,068        58,043  

Series 2006-1F, Class 2A4,

    

6.00%, 02/25/2036

    73,437        63,006  

Headlands Residential LLC
Series 2017-RPL1, Class A,
3.88% (D), 08/25/2022 (A)

    1,135,000        1,129,212  

Impac Secured Assets Trust

    

Series 2006-1, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (D), 05/25/2036

    101,187        100,114  

Series 2006-2, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (D), 08/25/2036

    19,321        18,957  

Independence Plaza Trust
Series 2018-INDP, Class A,
3.76%, 07/10/2035 (A)

    765,000        766,525  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2004-CBX, Class B,
5.02% (D), 01/12/2037

    212,157        214,766  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2006-LDP8, Class X,
0.29% (D), 05/15/2045

    92,579        145  

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust
Series 2006-A2, Class 5A3,
3.62% (D), 11/25/2033

    33,500        34,183  

Ladder Capital Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2013-GCP, Class A2,
3.99%, 02/15/2036 (A)

    154,000        153,390  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

LB-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2008-C1, Class A2,
6.32% (D), 04/15/2041

    $   21        $   21  

MASTR Adjustable Rate Mortgages Trust

    

Series 2004-13, Class 2A1,

    

3.81% (D), 04/21/2034

    41,477        42,558  

Series 2004-13, Class 3A7,

    

3.91% (D), 11/21/2034

    23,178        23,796  

Series 2004-3, Class 4A2,

    

3.36% (D), 04/25/2034

    25,098        23,452  

MASTR Alternative Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-10, Class 1A1,

    

4.50%, 09/25/2019

    5,128        5,137  

Series 2004-5, Class 5A1,

    

4.75%, 06/25/2019

    3,004        3,004  

MASTR Resecuritization Trust, Principal Only STRIPS
Series 2005, Class 3,
05/28/2035 (A)

    16,236        13,096  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust

    

Series 2003-E, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.62%,
2.71% (D), 10/25/2028

    311,694        309,457  

Series 2004-1, Class 2A1,

    

3.57% (D), 12/25/2034

    70,528        71,068  

Series 2004-A, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.46%,
2.55% (D), 04/25/2029

    210,469        207,572  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust
Series 2014-C14, Class A3,
3.67%, 02/15/2047

    350,000        353,456  

Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust
Series 2011-C3, Class A3,
4.05%, 07/15/2049

    79,069        79,827  

Morgan Stanley Re-REMIC Trust

    

Series 2012-IO, Class AXA,

    

1.00%, 03/27/2051 (A)

    23,112        23,003  

Series 2012-XA, Class B,

    

0.25%, 07/27/2049 (A)

    50,906        47,855  

Nomura Asset Acceptance Corp. Alternative Loan Trust

    

Series 2003-A1, Class A2,

    

6.00%, 05/25/2033

    9,498        9,656  

Series 2003-A1, Class A5,

    

7.00%, 04/25/2033

    10,096        10,351  

PHH Alternative Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2007-2, Class 2X,
6.00%, 05/25/2037

    177,112        41,487  

RAIT Trust
Series 2015-FL5, Class B,
1-Month LIBOR + 3.90%, 5.95% (D), 01/15/2031 (A)

    295,000        295,024  

RALI Trust

    

Series 2002-QS16, Class A3,

    

(2.09) * 1-Month LIBOR + 16.62%, 12.25% (D), 10/25/2017

    281        291  

Series 2004-QS3, Class CB,

    

5.00%, 03/25/2019

    7,669        7,661  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

RBS Commercial Funding, Inc.
Series 2013-SMV, Class A,
3.26%, 03/11/2031 (A)

    $   160,000        $   157,275  

Resource Capital Corp., Ltd.
Series 2015-CRE4, Class B,
1-Month LIBOR + 3.00%, 5.07% (D), 08/15/2032 (A)

    30,189        29,887  

Sequoia Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2003-1, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.76%, 2.84% (D), 04/20/2033

    132,777        130,423  

Series 2004-11, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.68% (D), 12/20/2034

    103,484        101,958  

Series 2004-8, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.78% (D), 09/20/2034

    249,044        239,334  

Series 2004-9, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.76% (D), 10/20/2034

    193,522        189,205  

Structured Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2004-1, Class 4A4,
3.76% (D), 02/25/2034

    260,241        262,137  

Structured Asset Mortgage Investments II Trust

    

Series 2003-AR4, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.78% (D), 01/19/2034

    298,908        291,919  

Series 2004-AR1, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.78% (D), 03/19/2034

    273,170        269,787  

Series 2004-AR5, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%, 2.74% (D), 10/19/2034

    45,420        43,467  

Series 2005-AR5, Class A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.33% (D), 07/19/2035

    130,850        127,245  

Structured Asset Securities Corp. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2003-33H, Class 1A1,
5.50%, 10/25/2033

    55,875        56,851  

Thornburg Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2004-4, Class 3A,
3.06% (D), 12/25/2044

    95,508        96,129  

TIAA Seasoned Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2007-C4, Class C,
5.48% (D), 08/15/2039

    240,000        240,242  

UBS-BAMLL Trust
Series 2012-WRM, Class A,
3.66%, 06/10/2030 (A)

    231,000        229,439  

UBS-Barclays Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2012-C2, Class A4,

    

3.53%, 05/10/2063

    130,000        130,768  

Series 2013-C6, Class A4,

    

3.24%, 04/10/2046

    286,000        284,162  

UBS-Barclays Commercial Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2012-C2, Class XA,
1.49% (D), 05/10/2063 (A)

    761,311        33,003  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    23


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

V.M. Jog Engineering, Ltd.
Series 2017, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 4.60%,
6.56% (D), 12/15/2020

    $   1,200,000        $   1,200,000  

VNDO Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2012-6AVE, Class A,

    

3.00%, 11/15/2030 (A)

    544,235        536,561  

Series 2013-PENN, Class A,

    

3.81%, 12/13/2029 (A)

    400,000        404,298  

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2006-C24, Class XC,
0.10% (D), 03/15/2045 (A)

    591,469        3  

WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust

    

Series 2003-AR11, Class A6,

    

3.37% (D), 10/25/2033

    92,265        93,512  

Series 2003-AR6, Class A1,

    

4.21% (D), 06/25/2033

    25,760        26,022  

Series 2003-S3, Class 1A4,

    

5.50%, 06/25/2033

    47,623        49,051  

Series 2003-S9, Class A8,

    

5.25%, 10/25/2033

    48,485        49,511  

Series 2004-AR3, Class A2,

    

3.95% (D), 06/25/2034

    16,919        17,254  

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust
Series 2005-4, Class CB7,
5.50%, 06/25/2035

    145,002        139,933  

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust, Interest Only STRIPS

    

Series 2005-2, Class 1A4,

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.05%, 2.96% (D), 04/25/2035

    471,238        40,761  

Series 2005-3, Class CX,

    

5.50%, 05/25/2035

    163,524        30,907  

Washington Mutual MSC Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust, Principal Only STRIPS
Series 2003-MS7, Class P,
03/25/2033

    2,198        1,928  

Wells Fargo Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2013-120B, Class A,

    

2.80% (D), 03/18/2028 (A)

    400,000        396,181  

Series 2014-LC16, Class A2,

    

2.82%, 08/15/2050

    758,922        758,412  

Series 2016-C35, Class A4,

    

2.93%, 07/15/2048

    1,103,000        1,045,427  

Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust

    

Series 2003-G, Class A1,

    

3.60% (D), 06/25/2033

    81,646        82,668  

Series 2003-K, Class 1A1,

    

3.57% (D), 11/25/2033

    12,118        12,304  

Series 2004-EE, Class 3A1,

    

4.16% (D), 12/25/2034

    76,817        79,788  

Series 2004-I, Class 1A1,

    

3.75% (D), 07/25/2034

    75,917        77,702  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust (continued)

 

Series 2004-P, Class 2A1,

    

3.64% (D), 09/25/2034

    $   84,441        $   86,728  

Series 2004-V, Class 1A1,

    

4.16% (D), 10/25/2034

    24,068        24,463  

Series 2005-AR16, Class 2A1,

    

3.81% (D), 02/25/2034

    67,650        69,343  

Series 2005-AR3, Class 1A1,

    

4.23% (D), 03/25/2035

    278,902        287,002  

Series 2005-AR8, Class 2A1,

    

3.91% (D), 06/25/2035

    19,906        20,397  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $24,713,119)

 

     24,807,321  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.1%  
California - 0.0% (E)  

City of Los Angeles Department of Airports, Revenue Bonds,
Series C,
6.58%, 05/15/2039

    65,000        82,891  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.1%  

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Revenue Bonds

    

4.46%, 10/01/2062

    225,000        238,966  

5.65%, 11/01/2040

    155,000        192,001  
    

 

 

 
       430,967  
    

 

 

 
Ohio - 0.0% (E)  

Ohio State University, Revenue Bonds

    

Series A,

    

4.05%, 12/01/2056

    106,000        107,659  

4.80%, 06/01/2111

    130,000        141,665  
       249,324  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $708,477)

 

     763,182  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 29.7%  

Federal Home Loan Banks
5.50%, 07/15/2036

    150,000        195,736  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.62% (D), 07/15/2042 - 03/15/2044

    1,793,000        1,816,848  

3.00%, 08/15/2042 - 01/15/2044

    3,119,602        3,035,621  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.69%, 3.44% (D), 12/01/2036

    4,396        4,595  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.67%, 3.45% (D), 11/01/2036

    27,910        29,133  

3.50%, 01/01/2032 - 06/01/2043

    2,796,643        2,799,083  

6-Month LIBOR + 1.68%, 3.51% (D), 08/01/2036

    28,049        29,087  

6-Month LIBOR + 1.74%, 3.52% (D), 07/01/2036

    41,146        42,905  

1-Year CMT + 2.25%, 3.53% (D), 02/01/2036

    95,702        100,988  

1-Year CMT + 2.36%, 3.61% (D), 10/01/2036

    31,997        33,762  

6-Month LIBOR + 1.92%, 3.68% (D), 03/01/2037

    32,006        33,581  

1-Year CMT + 2.25%, 3.70% (D), 01/01/2035

    28,967        30,473  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. (continued)

 

1-Year CMT + 2.37%, 3.72% (D), 09/01/2034

    $   46,829        $   49,484  

6-Month LIBOR + 2.11%, 3.80% (D), 02/01/2037

    56,161        59,173  

6-Month LIBOR + 1.79%, 3.87% (D), 10/01/2036

    27,351        28,533  

4.00%, 06/01/2042 - 01/01/2046

    2,712,420        2,790,172  

1-Year CMT + 2.25%, 4.12% (D), 05/01/2036

    25,884        27,326  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.94%, 4.26% (D), 06/01/2036

    108,378        114,403  

4.50%, 05/01/2041

    275,615        289,822  

5.50%, 06/01/2020 - 08/01/2038

    34,765        37,605  

6.00%, 10/01/2019 - 12/01/2034

    126,000        132,320  

6.50%, 09/01/2019 - 11/01/2036

    26,101        28,991  

7.00%, 01/01/2031

    75,376        82,822  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates

    

2.27%, 01/25/2023

    1,500,000        1,443,151  

2.36%, 08/25/2022

    851,870        834,584  

2.60%, 09/25/2020

    53,113        52,726  

2.62%, 01/25/2023

    1,250,000        1,226,308  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.70% (D), 09/25/2022

    386,812        387,783  

2.72%, 07/25/2026

    896,000        859,547  

2.77%, 05/25/2025

    750,000        728,570  

2.81%, 09/25/2024

    591,000        577,355  

2.84%, 09/25/2022

    574,000        567,921  

2.93%, 01/25/2023

    693,000        687,355  

3.04%, 07/25/2024

    2,500,000        2,477,318  

3.08%, 01/25/2031

    1,179,000        1,118,090  

3.39%, 03/25/2024

    857,000        868,089  

3.49%, 01/25/2024

    1,300,000        1,323,241  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.31% (D), 07/15/2037

    265,637        266,078  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.42% (D), 06/15/2043

    1,090,931        1,088,410  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (D), 10/15/2041

    357,008        358,954  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.44%, 2.51% (D), 02/15/2037

    9,514        9,530  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.52% (D), 03/15/2039 - 08/15/2039

    244,331        244,933  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.62% (D), 08/15/2037

    544,777        548,149  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.75% (D), 11/15/2037

    301,431        305,573  

4.00%, 12/15/2041

    364,451        377,025  

4.50%, 02/15/2020

    1,265        1,264  

5.00%, 12/15/2022 - 05/15/2041

    644,858        685,381  

5.50%, 12/15/2022 - 05/15/2038

    612,667        660,971  

(3.62) * 1-Month LIBOR + 27.21%, 5.50% (D), 05/15/2041

    93,644        94,416  

6.00%, 05/15/2027 - 09/15/2036

    1,144,725        1,244,559  

6.38%, 03/15/2032

    93,404        103,698  

6.40%, 11/15/2023

    24,796        25,836  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC (continued)

 

6.50%, 08/15/2031 - 07/15/2036

    $   495,314        $   552,462  

7.00%, 03/15/2024 - 05/15/2032

    799,693        885,886  

7.25%, 09/15/2030 - 12/15/2030

    208,819        235,960  

7.50%, 02/15/2023 - 08/15/2030

    88,245        95,742  

(1.25) * 1-Month LIBOR + 10.13%, 7.53% (D), 07/15/2032

    50,516        55,922  

8.00%, 01/15/2030

    154,811        178,190  

8.50%, 09/15/2020

    149        151  

(2.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 13.29%, 9.14% (D), 07/15/2033

    34,832        38,876  

(3.33) * 1-Month LIBOR + 17.50%, 10.59% (D), 02/15/2040

    87,974        102,250  

(1.83) * 1-Month LIBOR + 14.76%, 10.96% (D), 09/15/2033

    7,766        9,172  

(3.67) * 1-Month LIBOR + 24.49%, 16.89% (D), 06/15/2034

    40,946        46,972  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS

    

1.42% (D), 01/15/2040

    144,751        5,987  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.00%, 3.93% (D), 11/15/2037 - 02/15/2039

    120,509        14,400  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.20%, 4.13% (D), 06/15/2038

    249,694        33,264  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.37%, 4.30% (D), 10/15/2037

    490,244        68,143  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.42%, 4.35% (D), 11/15/2037

    60,712        5,694  

4.50%, 07/15/2037

    8,503        53  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.80%, 4.73% (D), 04/15/2038

    43,686        5,238  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 7.10%, 5.03% (D), 07/15/2036

    14,303        973  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 8.00%, 5.93% (D), 03/15/2032

    31,601        5,176  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
REMIC, Principal Only STRIPS
03/15/2019 - 01/15/2040

    243,592        212,107  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Structured Pass-Through Certificates

    

12-MTA + 1.20%, 2.66% (D), 10/25/2044

    204,813        204,599  

5.57% (D), 07/25/2032

    154,523        161,640  

6.50%, 02/25/2043

    145,433        164,518  

7.00%, 02/25/2043

    44,428        51,743  

7.50% (D), 08/25/2042

    65,657        76,780  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Interest Only STRIPS

    

5.00%, 09/15/2035

    47,572        10,206  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

Zero Coupon, 10/09/2019

    675,000        653,501  

1.94%, 07/01/2019

    926,665        917,681  

2.03%, 03/25/2019 - 08/01/2019

    613,911        611,635  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.26% (D), 01/01/2023

    887,633        887,393  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.31% (D), 09/25/2042

    528,109        525,335  

2.34%, 01/01/2023

    916,974        891,389  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

1-Month LIBOR + 0.26%, 2.35% (D), 11/25/2046

    $   156,154        $   156,405  

2.38%, 12/01/2022 - 10/01/2026

    1,933,321        1,841,600  

2.39% (D), 01/25/2023

    826,514        804,936  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.48%, 2.39% (D), 09/01/2024

    926,094        921,797  

2.40%, 02/01/2023

    993,945        969,873  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.45% (D), 08/25/2019

    49,354        49,321  

2.46%, 02/01/2023

    878,898        858,627  

2.49%, 05/25/2026

    1,000,000        939,722  

2.51%, 06/01/2023

    902,987        881,435  

2.52%, 05/01/2023

    1,000,000        975,387  

2.57%, 08/01/2028

    2,850,000        2,641,800  

2.61% (D), 10/25/2021

    921,656        912,137  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.64% (D), 08/25/2042

    473,059        477,813  

2.65%, 08/01/2022

    500,000        490,068  

2.66%, 12/01/2022

    991,265        973,123  

2.67%, 07/01/2022

    1,500,000        1,471,829  

2.70%, 07/01/2026

    1,500,000        1,429,785  

2.71%, 04/01/2023

    1,313,213        1,287,942  

2.77%, 06/01/2023

    859,496        844,840  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 2.88% (D), 11/25/2022

    441,504        445,927  

2.90%, 06/25/2027

    1,346,213        1,294,634  

2.92%, 12/01/2024

    1,000,000        981,984  

2.97%, 06/01/2030

    1,321,000        1,250,731  

2.98%, 08/25/2029

    733,000        693,246  

3.00%, 01/01/2043

    662,436        646,867  

3.02% (D), 08/25/2024

    636,000        627,585  

3.03%, 12/01/2021

    439,059        438,631  

3.08%, 01/01/2028

    2,000,000        1,942,349  

3.09% (D), 04/25/2027

    1,167,000        1,129,728  

3.10%, 09/01/2025 - 01/01/2028

    3,000,000        2,936,041  

3.12%, 01/01/2022 - 11/01/2026

    1,478,511        1,455,584  

3.14% (D), 03/25/2028

    546,000        528,179  

3.16%, 01/01/2030

    2,000,000        1,926,653  

3.18% (D), 06/25/2027

    1,016,000        991,254  

3.19% (D), 02/25/2030

    392,000        374,609  

3.24%, 10/01/2026 - 12/01/2026

    1,937,165        1,917,944  

3.26%, 04/01/2029

    2,000,000        1,951,429  

3.29%, 08/01/2026

    2,500,000        2,486,487  

3.30%, 12/01/2026 - 03/01/2029

    2,192,482        2,162,044  

3.30% (D), 04/25/2029

    937,000        907,045  

3.33%, 05/01/2028

    2,097,531        2,077,186  

3.34%, 02/01/2027 - 07/01/2030

    2,000,000        1,980,654  

3.36%, 12/01/2027

    1,058,300        1,053,406  

3.38%, 12/01/2023

    1,488,257        1,501,349  

3.42%, 05/01/2024

    600,000        603,723  

3.45%, 01/01/2024

    978,726        985,628  

3.50%, 08/01/2032 - 01/01/2044

    4,744,134        4,758,887  

3.57%, 01/01/2028 (C) (J)

    1,200,000        1,203,750  

3.59%, 10/01/2020

    92,242        93,466  

3.74%, 07/01/2023

    487,277        498,231  

1-Year CMT + 2.25%, 3.75% (D), 01/01/2036

    33,212        35,040  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

3.76%, 06/25/2021 - 12/01/2035

    $   2,332,671        $   2,349,364  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.79%, 3.79% (D), 01/01/2038

    7,262        7,504  

3.86%, 07/01/2021

    886,642        906,440  

3.87%, 08/01/2021

    896,631        917,469  

3.92%, 08/01/2021

    1,392,512        1,424,639  

3.94%, 07/01/2021

    500,000        511,853  

3.97%, 06/01/2021 - 07/01/2021

    903,266        924,540  

3.98%, 08/01/2021

    923,606        945,927  

3.99%, 07/01/2021

    370,399        379,374  

4.00%, 07/01/2042 - 03/01/2048

    3,832,653        3,929,192  

4.02%, 08/01/2021 - 11/01/2028

    1,528,092        1,575,825  

4.05%, 08/01/2021

    748,428        768,390  

4.06%, 07/01/2021 - 09/01/2021

    1,413,475        1,451,401  

4.16%, 03/01/2021

    440,878        452,480  

4.23%, 03/01/2020

    816,060        831,067  

4.25%, 04/01/2021

    500,000        515,160  

4.26%, 06/01/2021

    317,610        325,879  

4.38%, 04/01/2020

    142,916        146,259  

4.39%, 05/01/2021

    233,741        240,562  

4.45%, 07/01/2026

    450,667        474,950  

4.50%, 08/01/2018 - 03/01/2019

    10,960        11,037  

4.65%, 06/01/2021

    901,476        934,246  

5.00%, 09/01/2018 - 08/01/2040

    241,859        256,122  

5.50%, 07/01/2022 - 05/01/2036

    228,405        241,472  

6.00%, 12/01/2032 - 11/01/2037

    369,674        402,753  

6.50%, 08/01/2020 - 10/01/2036

    61,823        68,561  

8.00%, 11/01/2037

    5,491        5,973  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.28% (D), 06/27/2036

    30,557        29,988  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.39% (D), 08/25/2041

    222,486        222,486  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (D), 04/25/2035 - 08/25/2036

    84,597        84,755  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.49% (D), 10/25/2042

    495,099        493,363  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.59% (D), 05/25/2035 - 10/25/2042

    1,105,601        1,114,018  

3.00%, 01/25/2046

    552,667        546,139  

4.00%, 10/25/2025 - 04/25/2033

    847,688        866,736  

4.50%, 07/25/2029

    1,000,000        1,042,218  

(1.33) * 1-Month LIBOR + 7.47%, 4.82% (D), 08/25/2033

    50,877        49,730  

5.00%, 09/25/2023 - 08/25/2040

    1,296,949        1,398,982  

5.39% (D), 07/25/2023

    79,476        84,112  

5.43% (D), 12/25/2042

    114,845        120,027  

5.50%, 04/25/2023 - 07/25/2038

    1,477,200        1,583,610  

5.75%, 06/25/2033

    197,161        213,944  

5.96% (D), 12/25/2042

    62,277        67,839  

6.00%, 11/25/2032 - 11/25/2039

    433,896        473,044  

6.50%, 02/25/2022 - 05/25/2044

    464,552        513,908  

6.50% (D), 10/25/2042

    23,429        26,477  

7.00%, 03/25/2031 - 11/25/2041

    879,829        993,585  

(1.88) * 1-Month LIBOR + 11.28%, 7.35% (D), 07/25/2035

    92,908        98,351  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    26


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC (continued)

 

8.00%, 05/25/2022

    $   10,483        $   11,126  

(2.50) * 1-Month LIBOR + 13.75%, 8.79% (D), 07/25/2033

    23,974        26,385  

(1.67) * 1-Month LIBOR + 12.50%, 9.01% (D), 09/25/2033

    10,379        11,420  

(2.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 14.00%, 9.82% (D), 03/25/2038

    6,921        7,539  

(6.67) * 1-Month LIBOR + 54.00%, 10.00% (D), 03/25/2032

    4,406        5,433  

(1.83) * 1-Month LIBOR + 14.48%, 10.65% (D), 12/25/2032

    6,640        7,548  

(2.75) * 1-Month LIBOR + 16.50%, 10.75% (D), 05/25/2034

    23,582        27,042  

(2.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 15.50%, 11.33% (D), 11/25/2031

    22,611        27,937  

(2.50) * 1-Month LIBOR + 17.38%, 12.15% (D), 07/25/2035

    68,952        86,500  

(2.75) * 1-Month LIBOR + 19.53%, 13.77% (D), 04/25/2034 - 05/25/2034

    135,379        173,427  

(2.75) * 1-Month LIBOR + 19.80%, 14.05% (D), 08/25/2032

    8,359        8,548  

(4.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 24.00%, 15.64% (D), 05/25/2034

    11,855        14,713  

(3.50) * 1-Month LIBOR + 23.10%, 15.78% (D), 06/25/2035

    58,618        67,656  

(3.67) * 1-Month LIBOR + 24.57%, 16.90% (D), 03/25/2036

    20,908        29,973  

(4.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 26.20%, 17.84% (D), 10/25/2036

    7,935        11,005  

(4.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 26.56%, 18.20% (D), 12/25/2036

    11,170        14,765  

(3.25) * 1-Month LIBOR + 25.19%, 18.39% (D), 02/25/2032

    2,733        3,719  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS

    

0.91% (D), 08/25/2042

    323,030        7,723  

1.19% (D), 01/25/2038

    46,844        1,700  

1.46% (D), 04/25/2041

    107,095        5,586  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.85%, 3.76% (D), 09/25/2038

    143,041        13,843  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.91%, 3.82% (D), 02/25/2038

    89,676        9,982  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.10%, 4.01% (D), 06/25/2037

    48,287        5,724  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.18%, 4.09% (D), 12/25/2039

    15,966        1,667  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.20%, 4.11% (D), 03/25/2038

    14,408        1,753  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.42%, 4.33% (D), 04/25/2040

    26,395        3,383  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.50%, 4.41% (D), 06/25/2023

    13,659        502  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.53%, 4.44% (D), 01/25/2041

    324,762        55,343  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.54%, 4.45% (D), 09/25/2037

    54,289        9,122  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.55%, 4.46% (D), 02/25/2039

    38,290        5,720  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS (continued)

 

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.58%, 4.49% (D), 06/25/2036

    $   35,915        $   4,608  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.70%, 4.61% (D), 03/25/2036

    628,621        106,249  

5.00%, 03/25/2023

    304        0 (K)  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 7.15%, 5.06% (D), 07/25/2037

    94,417        18,215  

6.50%, 05/25/2033

    27,714        5,731  

7.00%, 06/25/2033

    36,301        8,664  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Principal Only STRIPS
12/25/2032 - 12/25/2043

    2,053,860        1,632,150  

Federal National Mortgage Association, Principal Only STRIPS

    

09/25/2024 - 01/25/2033

    57,784        51,399  

05/15/2030, MTN

    400,000        266,788  

FREMF Mortgage Trust

    

3.70% (D), 11/25/2049 (A)

    529,000        509,521  

3.81% (D), 01/25/2048 (A)

    760,000        747,031  

3.97% (D), 07/25/2049 (A)

    420,000        416,429  

4.21% (D), 11/25/2047 (A)

    490,000        490,192  

Government National Mortgage Association

    

1.65%, 01/20/2063

    1,116,587        1,098,713  

2.00%, 05/16/2049

    128,290        123,170  

2.07% (D), 07/16/2048

    47,459        45,808  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.22% (D), 08/20/2060

    19,488        19,497  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.26% (D), 12/20/2062

    278,320        278,043  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.32% (D), 12/20/2060

    705,968        706,367  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.41%, 2.33% (D), 03/20/2063

    676,402        677,046  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.43%, 2.35% (D), 04/20/2060

    132,397        132,327  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.37% (D), 03/20/2060 - 08/20/2067

    1,690,966        1,694,186  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.47%, 2.39% (D), 01/20/2061 - 08/20/2065

    3,325,191        3,335,857  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.48%, 2.40% (D), 02/20/2065

    1,183,899        1,189,228  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.42% (D), 06/20/2064 - 07/20/2064

    3,241,928        3,259,869  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.43% (D), 10/20/2062

    345,332        346,410  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.44% (D), 09/20/2065

    578,280        581,889  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.47% (D), 07/20/2062

    37,337        37,403  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.58%, 2.50% (D), 09/20/2062 - 05/20/2066

    1,071,632        1,074,754  

2.50%, 09/16/2056

    52,812        51,510  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.57% (D), 01/20/2064 - 03/20/2064

    2,468,710        2,487,553  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%, 2.58% (D), 12/20/2065

    451,523        457,158  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Government National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.62% (D), 05/20/2061

    $   48,452        $   48,584  

1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 2.92% (D), 12/20/2066

    489,382        501,280  

3.50%, 11/20/2039 - 06/20/2046

    1,801,942        1,805,559  

4.74% (D), 10/20/2043

    889,377        943,307  

5.00%, 04/16/2023

    184,723        187,003  

5.49% (D), 01/20/2038

    394,630        429,271  

5.50%, 11/20/2020 - 09/20/2039

    1,500,531        1,636,229  

5.56% (D), 07/20/2040

    271,327        296,259  

5.85% (D), 12/20/2038

    115,503        127,172  

6.00%, 09/20/2038 - 08/20/2039

    215,598        239,531  

6.50%, 10/16/2024 - 06/20/2033

    1,094,954        1,220,238  

7.33%, 11/20/2030

    15,344        17,280  

8.00%, 06/20/2030

    16,619        18,987  

8.50%, 02/16/2030

    132,778        149,763  

9.00%, 05/16/2027

    9,386        9,379  

(2.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 13.40%, 9.23% (D), 10/20/2037

    26,401        28,507  

(2.41) * 1-Month LIBOR + 16.43%, 11.41% (D), 06/17/2035

    19,349        21,652  

(2.20) * 1-Month LIBOR + 16.72%, 12.13% (D), 05/18/2034

    1,305        1,460  

(2.75) * 1-Month LIBOR + 19.66%, 13.93% (D), 04/16/2034

    39,876        52,766  

(3.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 20.21%, 13.95% (D), 09/20/2037

    11,528        13,819  

(3.50) * 1-Month LIBOR + 23.28%, 15.98% (D), 04/20/2037

    39,850        50,987  

(4.91) * 1-Month LIBOR + 29.46%, 19.23% (D), 09/20/2034

    21,296        28,944  

Government National Mortgage Association, Interest Only STRIPS

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.70%, 3.62% (D), 12/20/2038

    45,121        4,106  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.83%, 3.75% (D), 02/20/2038

    75,998        7,741  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.00%, 3.92% (D), 11/20/2037

    68,794        8,089  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.08%, 4.00% (D), 06/20/2039

    48,535        5,250  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.10%, 4.01% (D), 02/16/2039

    26,648        3,227  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.10%, 4.02% (D), 10/20/2034

    91,543        11,920  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.20%, 4.12% (D), 03/20/2037 - 06/20/2038

    153,519        17,595  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.27%, 4.19% (D), 04/20/2039

    61,326        6,219  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.30%, 4.22% (D), 09/20/2035 - 03/20/2039

    194,514        22,138  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.40%, 4.31% (D), 05/16/2038 - 06/16/2039

    212,154        23,017  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.47%, 4.38% (D), 06/16/2037

    62,506        7,678  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.50%, 4.41% (D), 03/16/2034

    3,787        6  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Government National Mortgage Association, Interest Only STRIPS (continued)

 

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.55%, 4.47% (D), 11/20/2037 - 12/20/2037

    $   64,741        $   8,207  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.75%, 4.67% (D), 07/20/2037

    124,766        16,712  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.78%, 4.69% (D), 08/20/2037

    86,255        10,671  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.81%, 4.72% (D), 04/16/2037

    40,441        6,135  

5.50%, 10/16/2037

    110,494        12,731  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 7.95%, 5.86% (D), 04/16/2032

    70,568        9,817  

6.50%, 03/20/2039

    34,167        8,996  

Government National Mortgage Association, Principal Only STRIPS
02/17/2033 - 01/20/2038

    183,077        161,654  

Residual Funding Corp., Principal Only STRIPS
10/15/2019 - 01/15/2021

    8,265,000        7,843,466  

Resolution Funding Corp., Principal Only STRIPS
01/15/2026 - 10/15/2027

    335,000        258,257  

Tennessee Valley Authority

    

4.25%, 09/15/2065

    397,000        449,669  

4.63%, 09/15/2060

    257,000        308,191  

5.88%, 04/01/2036

    550,000        722,184  

Tennessee Valley Authority, Principal Only STRIPS

    

05/01/2019 - 03/15/2032

    1,250,000        969,989  

01/15/2038

    150,000        73,072  

Vendee Mortgage Trust
Series 1997-1, Class 2Z,
7.50%, 02/15/2027

    303,334        333,655  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $175,566,621)

 

     172,147,696  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 23.9%  
U.S. Treasury - 23.7%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.50%, 02/15/2045

    1,400,000        1,276,461  

2.75%, 08/15/2042 - 11/15/2042

    448,000        430,972  

2.88%, 05/15/2043

    5,270,000        5,178,187  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (F)

    240,000        240,806  

3.13%, 02/15/2043 - 05/15/2048

    1,564,000        1,606,500  

3.63%, 08/15/2043 - 02/15/2044

    1,249,000        1,392,289  

3.75%, 11/15/2043

    2,397,000        2,724,996  

3.88%, 08/15/2040

    1,020,000        1,173,797  

4.25%, 05/15/2039 - 11/15/2040

    1,400,000        1,697,242  

4.38%, 02/15/2038 - 05/15/2041

    6,258,000        7,647,143  

4.50%, 02/15/2036 - 08/15/2039

    5,492,000        6,810,507  

5.25%, 02/15/2029

    130,000        158,270  

5.38%, 02/15/2031

    42,400        53,573  

U.S. Treasury Bond, Principal Only STRIPS

    

08/15/2019 - 08/15/2041

    53,649,260        38,591,490  

02/15/2023 - 11/15/2031 (F)

    14,755,000        11,661,976  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    28


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

0.88%, 07/31/2019

    $   70,000        $   68,873  

1.00%, 06/30/2019 - 11/30/2019

    530,000        520,164  

1.13%, 07/31/2021

    3,000,000        2,866,641  

1.25%, 07/31/2023

    3,000,000        2,787,773  

1.38%, 01/31/2021 - 09/30/2023

    11,180,000        10,661,911  

1.50%, 08/31/2018 - 08/15/2026

    3,642,000        3,495,979  

1.63%, 11/30/2020 - 02/15/2026

    9,409,500        9,002,539  

1.75%, 09/30/2022 - 01/31/2023

    2,728,000        2,618,937  

1.88%, 08/31/2024

    163,000        154,614  

2.00%, 10/31/2021 - 11/15/2026

    12,945,500        12,565,185  

2.13%, 02/29/2024 - 05/15/2025

    3,683,000        3,544,013  

2.25%, 11/15/2024 - 02/15/2027

    1,840,000        1,768,373  

2.50%, 05/31/2020

    369,000        368,827  

2.63%, 08/15/2020 - 05/15/2021

    673,000        673,719  

2.75%, 05/31/2023

    1,392,300        1,394,040  

2.88%, 04/30/2025 - 05/15/2028

    1,623,000        1,628,155  

3.63%, 02/15/2021

    1,000,000        1,025,508  

U.S. Treasury Note, Principal Only STRIPS 11/15/2019

    1,200,000        1,160,611  
    

 

 

 
       136,950,071  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.2%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond

    

2.13%, 02/15/2040

    231,776        291,330  

2.50%, 01/15/2029

    116,665        137,086  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Note

    

0.13%, 04/15/2019 - 01/15/2022

    465,010        459,444  

1.38%, 01/15/2020

    350,968        354,918  
    

 

 

 
       1,242,778  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $138,834,544)

 

     138,192,849  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 2.6%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (L)

    14,983,378        $   14,983,378  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $14,983,378)

 

     14,983,378  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.9%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (L), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $10,927,887 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $11,146,566.

    $  10,927,067        10,927,067  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $10,927,067)

 

     10,927,067  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $602,667,228)

 

     594,615,448  
    

 

 

 

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (2.7)%

 

     (15,831,799
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  578,783,649  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (M)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs (N)
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 84,105,057     $     $ 84,105,057  

Corporate Debt Securities

          142,013,947       17,848       142,031,795  

Foreign Government Obligations

          6,657,103             6,657,103  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          24,807,321             24,807,321  

Municipal Government Obligations

          763,182             763,182  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          172,147,696             172,147,696  

U.S. Government Obligations

          138,192,849             138,192,849  

Securities Lending Collateral

    14,983,378                   14,983,378  

Repurchase Agreement

          10,927,067             10,927,067  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $   14,983,378     $   579,614,222     $   17,848     $   594,615,448  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    29


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $113,150,721, representing 19.5% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(B)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $8,454,195 or 1.5% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the total value of securities is $2,100,583, representing 0.4% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(E)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(F)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $14,676,985. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(G)    Step bond. Coupon rate changes in increments to maturity. The rate disclosed is as of June 30, 2018; the maturity date disclosed is the ultimate maturity date.
(H)    Security is Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
(I)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.

(J)

   When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) security. Security to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Security may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.

(K)

   Rounds to less than $1 or $(1).

(L)

   Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.

(M)

   The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(N)    Level 3 securities were not considered significant to the Portfolio.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CMT    Constant Maturity Treasury
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTA    Month Treasury Average
MTN    Medium Term Note
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    30


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $591,740,161)
(including securities loaned of $14,676,985)

  $ 583,688,381  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $10,927,067)

    10,927,067  

Cash

    250,000  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    2,304  

Investments sold

    171,402  

Interest

    2,874,403  

Net income from securities lending

    2,546  

Prepaid expenses

    1,756  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    597,917,859  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    123,341  

Investments purchased

    2,404,295  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    1,205,654  

Investment management fees

    206,386  

Distribution and service fees

    54,760  

Transfer agent costs

    1,723  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,457  

Audit and tax fees

    25,563  

Custody fees

    14,303  

Legal fees

    12,387  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    88,821  

Other

    11,142  

Collateral for securities on loan

    14,983,378  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    19,134,210  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   578,783,649  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 441,255  

Additional paid-in capital

    562,653,726  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    25,521,368  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (1,780,920

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (8,051,780
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 578,783,649  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 302,887,666  

Service Class

    275,895,983  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    23,789,079  

Service Class

    20,336,455  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.73  

Service Class

    13.57  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 9,317,382  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    14,737  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    121  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    9,332,240  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,334,707  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    340,212  

Transfer agent costs

    4,476  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    9,676  

Audit and tax fees

    24,823  

Custody fees

    52,407  

Legal fees

    21,873  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    52,282  

Other

    11,743  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1,852,199  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (424

Service Class

    (389
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    1,851,386  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    7,480,854  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    (1,170,222
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (16,712,715
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (17,882,937
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (10,402,083
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    31


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 7,480,854     $ 16,851,456  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,170,222     5,443,840  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (16,712,715     5,418,818  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (10,402,083     27,714,114  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (10,367,465

Service Class

          (6,713,243
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (17,080,708
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    29,843,247       5,919,877  

Service Class

    11,282,211       35,555,965  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    41,125,458       41,475,842  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          10,367,465  

Service Class

          6,713,243  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          17,080,708  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (73,594,212     (238,652,974

Service Class

    (9,281,727     (24,771,777
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (82,875,939     (263,424,751
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (41,750,481     (204,868,201
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (52,152,564     (194,234,795
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    630,936,213       825,171,008  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   578,783,649     $   630,936,213  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 25,521,368     $ 18,040,514  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    2,353,259       454,850  

Service Class

    831,441       2,569,022  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    3,184,700       3,023,872  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          804,303  

Service Class

          487,527  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,291,830  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (5,790,171     (18,058,729

Service Class

    (684,263     (1,793,103
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (6,474,434     (19,851,832
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (3,436,912     (16,799,576

Service Class

    147,178       1,263,446  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,289,734     (15,536,130
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    32


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.94     $ 12.86     $ 12.83     $ 13.02     $ 12.62     $ 13.27  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.17       0.31       0.30 (B)       0.28       0.29       0.32  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.38     0.16       0.01 (C)       (0.20     0.38       (0.57
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.21     0.47       0.31       0.08       0.67       (0.25
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

 

Net investment income

          (0.39     (0.28     (0.27     (0.27     (0.40
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.73     $ 12.94     $ 12.86     $ 12.83     $ 13.02     $ 12.62  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.62 )%(E)      3.66     2.39     0.61     5.33     (1.84 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   302,888     $   352,261     $   566,006     $   472,685     $   488,758     $   335,836  

Expenses to average net assets

 

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.51 %(F)      0.52     0.52     0.55     0.56     0.57

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.51 %(F)(G)(H)      0.52 %(G)      0.52 %(B)      0.55     0.56     0.57

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.63 %(F)      2.37     2.24 %(B)      2.11     2.21     2.50

Portfolio turnover rate

    15 %(E)      26     25     19     17     23

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(H)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.80     $ 13.69     $ 13.66     $ 13.86     $ 13.42     $ 14.10  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.16       0.29       0.28 (B)       0.26       0.27       0.31  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.39     0.18       0.01 (C)       (0.21     0.41       (0.61
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.23     0.47       0.29       0.05       0.68       (0.30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

 

Net investment income

          (0.36     (0.26     (0.25     (0.24     (0.38
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.57     $ 13.80     $ 13.69     $ 13.66     $ 13.86     $ 13.42  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.67 )%(E)      3.42     2.06     0.33     5.10     (2.13 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   275,896     $   278,675     $   259,165     $   199,855     $   162,347     $   106,656  

Expenses to average net assets

 

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.76 %(F)      0.77     0.77     0.80     0.81     0.82

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.76 %(F)(G)(H)      0.77 %(G)      0.76 %(B)      0.80     0.81     0.82

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.39 %(F)      2.13     2.00 %(B)      1.87     1.97     2.25

Portfolio turnover rate

    15 %(E)      26     25     19     17     23

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Fund shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(H)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    33


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    34


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    35


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    36


Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
    

Overnight and

Continuous

   

Less Than

30 Days

   

Between

30 & 90 Days

   

Greater Than

90 Days

    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Corporate Debt Securities

  $ 2,727,105     $     $     $     $ 2,727,105  

Foreign Government Obligations

    200,977                         200,977  

U.S. Government Obligations

    12,055,296                         12,055,296  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 14,983,378     $     $     $     $ 14,983,378  

Total Borrowings

  $   14,983,378     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   14,983,378  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Fixed income risk: The value of fixed income securities may go up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic or political conditions, inflation, changes in interest rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In addition, the value of a fixed income security may decline if the issuer or other obligor of the security fails to pay principal and/or interest, otherwise defaults or has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines. If the value of fixed-income securities owned by the Portfolio fall, the value of your investment will go down. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. Interest rates have been at historically low levels, so the Portfolio faces a heightened risk that interest rates may rise. A general rise in interest rates may cause investors to move out of fixed-income securities on a large scale, which could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed-income securities. A rise in rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $750 million

     0.450

Over $750 million up to $1 billion

     0.390  

Over $1 billion up to $1.5 billion

     0.375  

Over $1.5 billion up to $3 billion

     0.370  

Over $3 billion

     0.365  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.65    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.90      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  42,037,804   $  45,446,172     $  74,249,148   $  31,611,193

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  602,667,228   $  4,232,543   $  (12,284,323)   $  (8,051,780)

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 10-year period and in line with the median for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1- and 10-year periods and below its benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica JPMorgan Core Bond VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    45


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,013.80     $   3.45     $   1,021.40     $   3.46       0.69

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,013.00       4.69       1,020.10       4.71       0.94  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     99.5

Repurchase Agreement

     0.4  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.4  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation

     0.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (0.4

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

  

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 99.5%  
Aerospace & Defense - 2.1%  

Boeing Co.

    22,700        $  7,616,077  

General Dynamics Corp.

    72,065        13,433,637  

Harris Corp.

    11,480        1,659,319  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    43,054        13,247,716  

United Technologies Corp.

    111,205        13,903,961  
    

 

 

 
       49,860,710  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.5%  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    212,451        10,524,822  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (A)

    24,523        1,709,989  
    

 

 

 
       12,234,811  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.3%  

Aptiv PLC

    51,243        4,695,396  

Delphi Technologies PLC

    55,614        2,528,213  
    

 

 

 
       7,223,609  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.5%  

Ford Motor Co.

    1,062,790        11,765,085  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 5.8%  

Bank of America Corp.

    1,602,458        45,173,291  

BB&T Corp.

    128,500        6,481,540  

Citigroup, Inc.

    472,824        31,641,382  

Fifth Third Bancorp

    53,300        1,529,710  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.

    316,600        4,673,016  

KeyCorp

    349,863        6,836,323  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    123,980        8,185,159  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    5,304        1,531,583  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    535,097        29,665,778  
    

 

 

 
       135,717,782  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 2.7%  

Coca-Cola Co.

    343,272        15,055,910  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    27,098        5,930,939  

Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B

    223,781        15,226,059  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    249,847        27,200,843  
    

 

 

 
       63,413,751  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 2.4%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    110,215        10,211,420  

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    22,673        2,814,853  

Amgen, Inc.

    37,700        6,959,043  

Biogen, Inc. (A)

    33,544        9,735,811  

Celgene Corp. (A)

    78,447        6,230,261  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    174,623        12,370,293  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    46,439        7,892,772  
    

 

 

 
       56,214,453  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.7%  

Allegion PLC

    89,330        6,910,569  

Masco Corp.

    236,636        8,854,919  
    

 

 

 
       15,765,488  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 3.2%  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    140,371        7,570,208  

BlackRock, Inc.

    6,000        2,994,240  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    214,905        10,981,645  

CME Group, Inc.

    14,500        2,376,840  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    123,621        9,092,325  

Morgan Stanley

    447,954        21,233,020  

State Street Corp.

    197,336        18,370,008  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Capital Markets (continued)  

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    28,600        $   3,320,174  
    

 

 

 
       75,938,460  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 2.0%  

Celanese Corp., Series A

    50,116        5,565,883  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    448,928        29,593,334  

Eastman Chemical Co.

    119,379        11,933,125  
    

 

 

 
       47,092,342  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.3%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    145,219        6,248,774  

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

    10,400        1,210,248  
    

 

 

 
       7,459,022  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.8%  

American Express Co.

    26,369        2,584,162  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    170,343        15,654,522  
    

 

 

 
       18,238,684  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.4%  

Crown Holdings, Inc. (A)

    76,255        3,413,174  

WestRock Co.

    107,216        6,113,456  
    

 

 

 
       9,526,630  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.0% (B)  

H&R Block, Inc.

    41,500        945,370  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 1.5%  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (A)

    180,018        33,600,360  

Voya Financial, Inc.

    22,260        1,046,220  
    

 

 

 
       34,646,580  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.8%  

AT&T, Inc.

    280,599        9,010,034  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    186,340        9,374,765  
    

 

 

 
       18,384,799  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 2.2%  

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

    98,526        6,822,926  

Exelon Corp.

    259,967        11,074,594  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    137,745        23,007,547  

PG&E Corp.

    49,200        2,093,952  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    205,514        9,387,880  
    

 

 

 
       52,386,899  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.6%  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    187,954        14,047,682  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 2.2%  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

    57,147        9,822,998  

Brixmor Property Group, Inc.

    57,100        995,253  

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

    16,000        1,785,280  

Equinix, Inc.

    8,900        3,826,021  

Equity Residential

    133,184        8,482,489  

Federal Realty Investment Trust

    30,960        3,917,988  

Prologis, Inc.

    36,230        2,379,949  

Public Storage

    47,003        10,663,101  

Ventas, Inc.

    55,400        3,155,030  

Vornado Realty Trust

    95,969        7,094,028  
    

 

 

 
       52,122,137  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.4%  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    162,540        9,754,838  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Food Products - 0.9%  

Mondelez International, Inc., Class A

    491,378        $   20,146,498  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 3.2%  

Abbott Laboratories

    199,610        12,174,214  

Becton Dickinson and Co.

    59,052        14,146,497  

Boston Scientific Corp. (A)

    486,895        15,921,466  

Danaher Corp.

    61,017        6,021,158  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (A)

    8,400        4,019,232  

Medtronic PLC

    135,900        11,634,399  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    97,957        10,916,328  
    

 

 

 
       74,833,294  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 3.0%  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    52,100        4,442,567  

Cigna Corp.

    85,789        14,579,841  

CVS Health Corp.

    101,900        6,557,265  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    180,700        44,332,938  
    

 

 

 
       69,912,611  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.7%  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    104,433        8,266,916  

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.

    22,322        2,312,559  

Yum! Brands, Inc.

    90,200        7,055,444  
    

 

 

 
       17,634,919  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.3%  

Lennar Corp., Class A

    126,800        6,657,000  

Toll Brothers, Inc.

    36,596        1,353,686  
    

 

 

 
       8,010,686  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.7%  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    88,500        5,735,685  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    124,290        9,702,077  
    

 

 

 
       15,437,762  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.1%  

Honeywell International, Inc.

    178,070        25,650,983  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 2.4%  

American International Group, Inc.

    321,420        17,041,688  

Chubb, Ltd.

    11,190        1,421,354  

Everest Re Group, Ltd.

    9,316        2,147,152  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    186,558        9,538,711  

Lincoln National Corp.

    110,600        6,884,850  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    37,900        3,106,663  

MetLife, Inc.

    239,152        10,427,027  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    26,500        1,403,175  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    48,500        4,535,235  
    

 

 

 
       56,505,855  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 3.7%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    43,038        73,155,992  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    2,634        5,339,355  

Expedia Group, Inc.

    23,300        2,800,427  

Netflix, Inc. (A)

    17,200        6,732,596  
    

 

 

 
       88,028,370  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 5.7%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    37,379        42,207,993  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    36,110        40,286,122  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    264,772        51,450,495  
    

 

 

 
       133,944,610  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
IT Services - 4.0%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    103,310        $   16,900,483  

Alliance Data Systems Corp.

    13,800        3,218,160  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    119,103        12,628,491  

International Business Machines Corp.

    46,312        6,469,786  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    45,900        9,020,268  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (A)

    53,700        4,471,599  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    276,189        36,581,233  

Worldpay, Inc., Class A (A)

    43,860        3,586,871  
    

 

 

 
       92,876,891  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.6%  

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

    33,253        2,056,365  

Illumina, Inc. (A)

    14,906        4,163,097  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    40,734        8,437,641  
    

 

 

 
       14,657,103  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 2.8%  

Caterpillar, Inc.

    47,800        6,485,026  

Cummins, Inc.

    56,700        7,541,100  

Deere & Co.

    20,187        2,822,142  

Ingersoll-Rand PLC

    186,429        16,728,274  

PACCAR, Inc.

    104,705        6,487,522  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    13,278        2,069,376  

Snap-on, Inc.

    48,808        7,844,422  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    111,322        14,784,675  
    

 

 

 
       64,762,537  
    

 

 

 
Media - 3.9%  

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A (A)

    64,848        19,014,082  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    850,415        27,902,116  

Discovery, Inc., Class A (A)

    49,400        1,358,500  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (A)

    133,381        4,482,935  

Sirius XM Holdings, Inc.

    568,874        3,851,277  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A

    269,940        13,413,319  

Walt Disney Co.

    208,543        21,857,392  
    

 

 

 
       91,879,621  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.3%  

Alcoa Corp. (A)

    23,500        1,101,680  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    200,455        3,459,853  

Newmont Mining Corp.

    48,753        1,838,476  
    

 

 

 
       6,400,009  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.7%  

Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.

    214,100        11,591,374  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    69,900        4,519,035  
    

 

 

 
       16,110,409  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.9%  

Dollar General Corp.

    97,300        9,593,780  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (A)

    132,054        11,224,590  
    

 

 

 
       20,818,370  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 6.3%  

Andeavor

    34,700        4,551,946  

Chevron Corp.

    221,034        27,945,329  

Concho Resources, Inc. (A)

    58,238        8,057,227  

Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    75,554        9,940,640  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    189,284        23,552,608  

EQT Corp.

    96,935          5,348,873  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    213,716        17,680,725  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.

    196,300        13,772,408  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    167,744        $   14,036,818  

ONEOK, Inc.

    69,047        4,821,552  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    96,601        18,280,773  
    

 

 

 
       147,988,899  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 0.4%  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    63,700        9,089,353  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 4.6%  

Allergan PLC

    47,981        7,999,392  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    181,626        10,051,183  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    166,530        14,210,005  

Johnson & Johnson

    212,979        25,842,872  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    271,297        16,467,728  

Mylan NV (A)

    83,150        3,005,041  

Pfizer, Inc.

    791,544        28,717,216  

Zoetis, Inc.

    13,500        1,150,065  
    

 

 

 
       107,443,502  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 2.0%  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    122,244        18,442,952  

Union Pacific Corp.

    194,655        27,578,721  
    

 

 

 
       46,021,673  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 4.4%  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    229,369        22,001,075  

Broadcom, Inc.

    79,724        19,344,231  

Intel Corp.

    96,900        4,816,899  

Microchip Technology, Inc. (C)

    92,285        8,393,321  

Micron Technology, Inc. (A)

    61,500        3,225,060  

NVIDIA Corp.

    94,900        22,481,810  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    201,581        22,224,305  
    

 

 

 
       102,486,701  
    

 

 

 
Software - 6.8%  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    17,300        1,320,336  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    50,316        12,267,544  

Intuit, Inc.

    48,100        9,827,071  

Microsoft Corp.

    987,559        97,383,193  

Oracle Corp.

    274,773        12,106,498  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    158,600        21,633,040  

Workday, Inc., Class A (A)

    44,675        5,411,036  
    

 

 

 
       159,948,718  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 3.3%  

AutoZone, Inc. (A)

    17,000        11,405,810  

Best Buy Co., Inc.

    96,538        7,199,804  

Home Depot, Inc.

    152,108        29,676,271  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    85,223        8,144,762  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (A)

    35,973        9,841,134  

Ross Stores, Inc.

    108,788        9,219,783  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    26,100        2,484,198  
    

 

 

 
       77,971,762  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 4.6%  

Apple, Inc.

    487,390        90,220,763  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

    625,900        9,144,399  

HP, Inc.

    425,924        9,664,215  
    

 

 

 
       109,029,377  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 1.2%  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    184,192        $   14,676,419  

PVH Corp.

    68,013        10,182,906  

Ralph Lauren Corp.

    18,300        2,300,676  
    

 

 

 
       27,160,001  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 1.1%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    97,600        5,542,704  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    244,502        19,741,091  
    

 

 

 
       25,283,795  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.2%  

Fastenal Co.

    98,100        4,721,553  

United Rentals, Inc. (A)

    6,400        944,768  
    

 

 

 
       5,666,321  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.3%  

T-Mobile US, Inc. (A)

    117,760        7,036,160  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $1,997,168,681)

 

     2,335,475,922  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 0.1%  

U.S. Treasury Bill
2.03% (D), 01/31/2019 (E)

    $  2,985,000        2,948,706  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $2,950,050)

 

     2,948,706  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.4%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (D)

    8,241,753        8,241,753  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $8,241,753)

 

     8,241,753  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (D), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $9,993,874 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $10,193,308.

    $  9,993,124        9,993,124  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $9,993,124)

 

     9,993,124  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $2,018,353,608)

 

     2,356,659,505  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.4)%

 

     (8,688,342
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  2,347,971,163  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                       
Description    Long/Short   Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

   Long     92       09/21/2018     $   12,772,287     $   12,519,360     $   —     $   (252,927

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (F)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 2,335,475,922     $     $     $ 2,335,475,922  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation

          2,948,706             2,948,706  

Securities Lending Collateral

    8,241,753                   8,241,753  

Repurchase Agreement

          9,993,124             9,993,124  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 2,343,717,675     $ 12,941,830     $     $ 2,356,659,505  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (G)

  $ (252,927   $     $     $ (252,927
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (252,927   $     $     $ (252,927
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(C)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $8,060,080. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(D)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(E)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $770,516.
(F)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(G)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $2,008,360,484)
(including securities loaned of $8,060,080)

  $ 2,346,666,381  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $9,993,124)

    9,993,124  

Cash

    18,759  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    2,418,690  

Investments sold

    26,077,048  

Interest

    250  

Dividends

    1,710,771  

Net income from securities lending

    4,721  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    4,248  

Prepaid expenses

    8,186  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    2,386,902,178  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    4,196,922  

Investments purchased

    25,101,104  

Investment management fees

    1,256,075  

Distribution and service fees

    15,680  

Transfer agent costs

    4,561  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    7,029  

Audit and tax fees

    27,866  

Custody fees

    21,964  

Legal fees

    23,004  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    11,985  

Other

    23,072  

Collateral for securities on loan

    8,241,753  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    38,931,015  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   2,347,971,163  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,068,171  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,781,671,185  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    36,135,591  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    191,043,246  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    338,305,897  

Futures contracts

    (252,927
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 2,347,971,163  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 2,270,280,524  

Service Class

    77,690,639  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    103,269,244  

Service Class

    3,547,864  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 21.98  

Service Class

    21.90  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 20,133,649  

Interest income

    106,720  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    48,070  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    20,288,439  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    7,664,581  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    98,840  

Transfer agent costs

    16,667  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    36,155  

Audit and tax fees

    27,340  

Custody fees

    118,435  

Legal fees

    67,532  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    10,361  

Other

    29,568  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    8,069,479  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (4,138

Service Class

    (147
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    8,065,194  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    12,223,245  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

      100,197,760  

Futures contracts

    411,192  

Foreign currency transactions

    98  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    100,609,050  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (73,376,458

Futures contracts

    (283,568

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (9
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (73,660,035
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    26,949,015  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   39,172,260  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:    

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
 

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 12,223,245     $ 23,145,330  

Net realized gain (loss)

    100,609,050       98,084,103  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (73,660,035     306,661,737  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    39,172,260       427,891,170  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (11,977,344

Service Class

          (297,470
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (12,274,814
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (42,228,214

Service Class

          (1,485,881
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (43,714,095
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (55,988,909
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    111,250,770       125,797,933  

Service Class

    5,513,869       14,627,325  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    116,764,639       140,425,258  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          54,205,558  

Service Class

          1,783,351  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          55,988,909  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (165,370,971     (240,811,006

Service Class

    (8,965,248     (10,149,620
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (174,336,219     (250,960,626
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (57,571,580     (54,546,459
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (18,399,320     317,355,802  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    2,366,370,483       2,049,014,681  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   2,347,971,163     $   2,366,370,483  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 36,135,591     $ 23,912,346  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    5,214,128       6,282,934  

Service Class

    247,253       745,690  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    5,461,381       7,028,624  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          2,768,415  

Service Class

          91,267  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,859,682  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (7,399,339     (11,771,520

Service Class

    (412,110     (504,952
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (7,811,449     (12,276,472
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (2,185,211     (2,720,171

Service Class

    (164,857     332,005  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,350,068     (2,388,166
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 21.68     $ 18.37      $ 16.93     $ 18.52      $ 17.59      $ 13.45  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.12       0.21        0.23 (B)       0.20        0.20        0.18  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.18       3.62        1.67       (0.28      2.22        4.17  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.30       3.83        1.90       (0.08      2.42        4.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.11      (0.07     (0.18      (0.15      (0.10

Net realized gains

          (0.41      (0.39     (1.33      (1.34      (0.11
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.52      (0.46     (1.51      (1.49      (0.21
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 21.98     $ 21.68      $ 18.37     $ 16.93      $ 18.52      $ 17.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    1.38 %(D)      21.15      11.35     (0.07 )%       14.19      32.52
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   2,270,280     $   2,286,100      $   1,987,029     $   320,441      $   339,793      $   259,656  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.69 %(E)      0.69      0.72     0.81      0.81      0.83

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.69 %(E)(F)(G)      0.69      0.72 %(B)      0.81      0.81      0.83

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.06 %(E)      1.05      1.29 %(B)      1.09      1.10      1.13

Portfolio turnover rate

    27 %(D)      37      49     44      50      78

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(G)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 21.62     $ 18.34      $ 16.90     $ 18.51      $ 17.59      $ 13.47  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.09       0.16        0.17 (B)       0.15        0.15        0.14  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.19       3.61        1.69       (0.28      2.24        4.17  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.28       3.77        1.86       (0.13      2.39        4.31  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.08      (0.03     (0.15      (0.13      (0.08

Net realized gains

          (0.41      (0.39     (1.33      (1.34      (0.11
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.49      (0.42     (1.48      (1.47      (0.19
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 21.90     $ 21.62      $ 18.34     $ 16.90      $ 18.51      $ 17.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    1.30 %(D)      20.82      11.12     (0.35 )%       13.97      32.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   77,690     $   80,270      $   61,986     $   47,187      $   43,346      $   26,732  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.94 %(E)      0.94      0.97     1.06      1.06      1.08

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.94 %(E)(F)(G)      0.94      0.97 %(B)      1.06      1.06      1.08

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.81 %(E)      0.80      0.99 %(B)      0.85      0.85      0.89

Portfolio turnover rate

    27 %(D)      37      49     44      50      78

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(G)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $15,984.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. The TAM family of mutual funds is a significant shareholder of the Navigator as of June 30, 2018. No individual fund has a significant holding in the Navigator. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 8,241,753     $     $     $     $ 8,241,753  

Total Borrowings

  $   8,241,753     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   8,241,753  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location    Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

   $     $     $ (252,927   $   —    $   —    $   (252,927

Total

   $   —     $   —     $   (252,927   $     —    $     —    $ (252,927
                                                  

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ 411,192     $     $     $ 411,192  

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   411,192     $   —     $   —     $   411,192  
                                                 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ (283,568   $     $     $ (283,568

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (283,568   $   —     $   —     $   (283,568
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long    Short
8,450   

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $750 million

     0.73

Over $750 million up to $1 billion

     0.68  

Over $1 billion up to $5 billion

     0.62  

Over $5 billion

     0.60  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
   Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

   0.84%    May 1, 2019

Service Class

   1.09    May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  628,437,230   $  —     $  676,384,831   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost    Gross
Appreciation
   Gross
(Depreciation)
   Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  2,018,353,608    $  394,761,754    $  (56,708,784)    $  338,052,970

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Trustees noted that the objective of the Portfolio, as an index fund, is to track, and not necessarily exceed, its benchmark index, and that unlike the Portfolio, the index is not subject to any expenses or transaction costs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods and in line with the median for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the median for its peer group and below the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   972.10     $   0.78     $   1,024.00     $   0.80       0.16

Service Class

    1,000.00       970.90       2.00       1,022.80       2.06       0.41  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

International Equity Funds

     63.8

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     14.3  

International Alternative Fund

     8.1  

U.S. Equity Funds

     6.9  

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     5.1  

U.S. Government Obligation

     1.0  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.8  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (0.0 )* 

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*   Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
^   The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.
  Allocations are subject to change.
 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 98.2%  
International Alternative Fund - 8.1%  

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond (A) (B)

    5,976,102        $  59,163,410  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Funds - 63.8%  

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity (A) (B)

    439,711        5,399,649  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity (A) (B)

    1,390,329        14,667,971  

Transamerica International Equity (A) (B)

    10,142,008        192,799,565  

Transamerica International Growth (A) (B)

    23,400,732        201,480,305  

Transamerica International Small Cap Value (A) (B)

    3,553,971        49,862,216  
    

 

 

 
       464,209,706  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 6.9%  

Transamerica Jennison Growth VP (B) (C)

    2,053,213        24,535,897  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (A) (B)

    2,028,247        25,413,933  
    

 

 

 
       49,949,830  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 14.3%  

Transamerica Core Bond (A) (B)

    787,061        7,595,140  

Transamerica Floating Rate (A) (B)

    3,077,323        30,403,954  

Transamerica High Yield Bond (A) (B)

    1,496,682        13,589,877  

Transamerica Intermediate Bond (A) (B)

    5,316,863        52,477,439  
    

 

 

 
       104,066,410  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 5.1%  

Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (B) (C)

    3,266,216        37,071,554  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $658,009,040)

 

     714,460,910  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 1.0%  
U.S. Treasury - 1.0%  

U.S. Treasury Note
1.13%, 01/31/2019 (D)

    $  7,780,000        $   7,731,983  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $7,721,046)

 

     7,731,983  
    

 

 

 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.8%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $5,661,797 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $5,775,031.

    5,661,372        5,661,372  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $5,661,372)

 

     5,661,372  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $671,391,458)

 

     727,854,265  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.0)% (F)

 

     (312,551
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  727,541,714  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

CAD Currency

     Long        580       09/18/2018      $ 44,811,889     $ 44,172,800     $      $ (639,089

EURO STOXX 50® Index

     Short        (371     09/21/2018        (14,887,605     (14,691,636     195,969         

MSCI EAFE Mini Index

     Long        159       09/21/2018        16,151,454       15,545,430              (606,024

Russell 2000® Mini Index

     Long        88       09/21/2018        7,359,751       7,249,000              (110,751

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Short        (75     09/21/2018          (10,434,598       (10,206,000     228,598         

S&P/TSX 60 Index

     Long        307       09/20/2018        44,603,271       44,990,393       387,122         

TOPIX Index

     Long        47       09/13/2018        7,537,249       7,346,204              (191,045

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long        140       09/19/2018        21,805,322       22,338,750       533,428         
              

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

               $   1,345,117      $   (1,546,909
              

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Investment Companies

  $ 714,460,910     $     $     $ 714,460,910  

U.S. Government Obligation

          7,731,983             7,731,983  

Repurchase Agreement

          5,661,372             5,661,372  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 714,460,910     $ 13,393,355     $     $ 727,854,265  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION (continued):

 

Valuation Inputs (continued) (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (H)

  $ 1,345,117     $     $     $ 1,345,117  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 1,345,117     $     $     $ 1,345,117  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (H)

  $ (1,546,909   $     $     $ (1,546,909
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (1,546,909   $     $     $ (1,546,909
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.
(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated
Investments
  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica Core Bond   $ 20,526,546     $ 1,750,709     $ (14,166,791   $ (620,328   $ 105,004     $ 7,595,140       787,061     $ 165,060     $  
Transamerica Developing Markets Equity     22,502,002             (17,199,992     4,496,516       (4,398,877     5,399,649       439,711              
Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity           15,480,014                   (812,043     14,667,971       1,390,329              
Transamerica Floating Rate           30,648,546                   (244,592     30,403,954       3,077,323       388,871        
Transamerica High Yield Bond     67,120,855       997,730       (53,267,706     (2,379,663     1,118,661       13,589,877       1,496,682       997,730        
Transamerica Intermediate Bond     54,154,163       4,914,845       (4,833,833     (81,143     (1,676,593     52,477,439       5,316,863       752,669        
Transamerica International Equity     205,118,580             (7,076,617     1,968,598       (7,210,996     192,799,565       10,142,008              
Transamerica International Growth     210,985,817       6,354,650       (5,246,626     217,161       (10,830,697     201,480,305       23,400,732              
Transamerica International Small Cap Value     56,714,629             (6,889,823     1,071,408       (1,033,998     49,862,216       3,553,971              
Transamerica Jennison Growth VP     28,461,136             (7,104,349     1,070,635       2,108,475       24,535,897       2,053,213              
Transamerica Large Cap Value     25,160,747       190,377                   62,809       25,413,933       2,028,247       190,378        
Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP     37,375,651       2,762,519       (2,370,945     (2,987     (692,684     37,071,554       3,266,216              
Transamerica Unconstrained Bond     10,800,720       51,642,370       (1,642,380     32,555       (1,669,855     59,163,410       5,976,102       854,975        

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $   738,920,846     $   114,741,760     $   (119,799,062   $   5,772,752     $   (25,175,386   $   714,460,910       62,928,458     $   3,349,683     $  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(C)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.
(D)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $6,141,858.
(E)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(F)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(G)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(H)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar
EUR    Euro

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index
TSX    Toronto Stock Exchange

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018 (unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $658,009,040)

  $ 714,460,910  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $7,721,046)

    7,731,983  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $5,661,372)

    5,661,372  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    160  

Affiliated investments sold

    1,516,072  

Interest

    36,550  

Dividends

    392,903  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    1,598,906  

Prepaid expenses

    2,674  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    731,401,530  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    2,306  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    132,878  

Affiliated investments purchased

    3,425,050  

Investment management fees

    72,310  

Distribution and service fees

    144,217  

Transfer agent costs

    1,355  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,673  

Audit and tax fees

    13,400  

Custody fees

    5,885  

Legal fees

    7,067  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    43,789  

Other

    8,886  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    3,859,816  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   727,541,714  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 680,534  

Additional paid-in capital

    645,998,539  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    17,414,269  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    7,201,879  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    56,451,870  

Unaffiliated investments

    10,937  

Futures contracts

    (201,792

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (14,522
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 727,541,714  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 16,857,228  

Service Class

    710,684,486  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    1,560,208  

Service Class

    66,493,206  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10.80  

Service Class

    10.69  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 3,349,683  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    67,591  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    3,417,274  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    459,471  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    915,838  

Transfer agent costs

    5,324  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    11,698  

Audit and tax fees

    13,129  

Custody fees

    29,625  

Legal fees

    22,152  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    22,960  

Other

    17,358  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1,497,555  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (1

Service Class

    (100
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    1,497,454  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    1,919,820  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    5,772,752  

Unaffiliated investments

    9,133  

Futures contracts

    (1,219,517

Foreign currency transactions

    (19,110
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    4,543,258  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (25,175,386

Unaffiliated investments

    3,696  

Futures contracts

    (3,230,851

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (31,335
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (28,433,876
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (23,890,618
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (21,970,798
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:    

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,919,820     $ 15,595,710  

Net realized gain (loss)

    4,543,258       13,853,959  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (28,433,876     104,262,277  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (21,970,798     133,711,946  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (310,849

Service Class

          (10,956,139
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (11,266,988
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    354,088       1,149,101  

Service Class

    16,992,750       40,929,719  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    17,346,838       42,078,820  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          310,849  

Service Class

          10,956,139  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          11,266,988  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,015,507     (2,053,994

Service Class

    (28,038,059     (51,167,056
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (29,053,566     (53,221,050
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (11,706,728     124,758  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (33,677,526     122,569,716  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    761,219,240       638,649,524  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   727,541,714     $   761,219,240  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 17,414,269     $ 15,494,449  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    31,648       111,522  

Service Class

    1,525,908       3,914,597  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,557,556       4,026,119  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          29,861  

Service Class

          1,061,641  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,091,502  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (91,186     (198,677

Service Class

    (2,554,695     (5,134,409
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,645,881     (5,333,086
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (59,538     (57,294

Service Class

    (1,028,787     (158,171
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,088,325     (215,465
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.11     $ 9.29     $ 9.37     $ 9.72     $ 9.99     $ 9.05  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.04       0.25       0.18 (C)       0.19       0.21       0.24  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.35     1.76       (0.06     (0.35     (0.25     0.90  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.31     2.01       0.12       (0.16     (0.04     1.14  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.19     (0.20     (0.19     (0.23     (0.20
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.80     $ 11.11     $ 9.29     $ 9.37     $ 9.72     $ 9.99  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (2.79 )%(E)      21.78     1.22     (1.64 )%      (0.47 )%      12.72
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   16,857     $   18,001     $   15,583     $   16,608     $   18,122     $   19,345  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.16 %(G)      0.16     0.15     0.15     0.15     0.15

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.16 %(G)(H)      0.16 %(H)      0.14 %(C)      0.15     0.15     0.15

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.76 %(G)      2.43     1.99 %(C)      1.90     2.10     2.53

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    16 %(E)      4     68     43     32     16

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.01     $ 9.21     $ 9.28     $ 9.63     $ 9.91     $ 8.98  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.03       0.23       0.16 (C)       0.17       0.19       0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.35     1.74       (0.06     (0.35     (0.26     0.88  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.32     1.97       0.10       (0.18     (0.07     1.11  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.17     (0.17     (0.17     (0.21     (0.18
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.69     $ 11.01     $ 9.21     $ 9.28     $ 9.63     $ 9.91  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (2.91 )%(E)      21.47     1.08     (1.89 )%      (0.79 )%      12.46
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   710,685     $   743,218     $   623,067     $   676,401     $   638,980     $   618,794  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.41 %(G)      0.41     0.40     0.40     0.40     0.40

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.41 %(G)(H)      0.41 %(H)      0.39 %(C)      0.40     0.40     0.40

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    0.51 %(G)      2.24     1.72 %(C)      1.72     1.91     2.44

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    16 %(E)      4     68     43     32     16

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Effective January 12, 2018, Transamerica International Moderate Growth VP changed its name to Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Portfolio is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ 533,428     $     $ 811,689     $     $     $ 1,345,117  

Total

  $ 533,428     $     $   811,689     $     $     $   1,345,117  
                                                 
Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $ (639,089   $ (907,820   $     $     $ (1,546,909

Total

  $     $   (639,089   $   (907,820   $     $     $   (1,546,909
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 1,457,305     $ 34,304     $ (2,711,126   $     $     $ (1,219,517

Total

  $ 1,457,305     $ 34,304     $ (2,711,126   $     $     $ (1,219,517
                                                 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 62,794     $ (2,099,684   $ (1,193,961   $     $     $ (3,230,851

Total

  $ 62,794     $   (2,099,684   $   (1,193,961   $     $     $   (3,230,851
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
83,303,099   (84,136,837)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

6. RISK FACTORS

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Emerging market risk: Investments in the securities of issuers located in or principally doing business in emerging markets are subject to heightened foreign investments risks. Emerging market countries tend to have economic, political and legal systems that are less fully developed and are less stable than those of more developed countries. Emerging market securities are often particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect speculative expectations. Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in extreme price volatility.

Foreign investment risk: Investing in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involves additional risk. Foreign countries in which the Fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile than U.S. markets. The value of the Fund’s investments may decline because of factors affecting a particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, political or financial instability or other adverse economic or political developments. Lack of information and weaker accounting standards also may affect the value of these securities.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $10 billion

     0.1225

Over $10 billion

     0.1025  

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.25    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.50      May 1, 2019

 

(A)   TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  111,392,068   $  7,166,073     $  119,799,063   $  5,136,904

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  671,391,458   $    63,135,976   $    (6,874,961)   $    56,261,015

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica International Moderate Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP (formerly, Transamerica International Moderate Growth VP) (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica International Moderate Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its primary benchmark for the past 10-year period and below its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2016 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the median for its peer group and below the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan International Moderate Growth VP

(formerly, Transamerica International Moderate Growth VP)

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   997.60     $   4.31     $   1,020.50     $   4.36       0.87

Service Class

    1,000.00       996.40       5.54       1,019.20       5.61       1.12  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.7

Repurchase Agreement

     2.3  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.0 )* 

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.7%  
Auto Components - 0.7%  

BorgWarner, Inc.

    84,013        $  3,626,001  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 7.6%  

Citizens Financial Group, Inc.

    113,349        4,409,276  

Fifth Third Bancorp

    249,325        7,155,627  

First Republic Bank

    46,530        4,503,639  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.

    272,040        4,015,310  

M&T Bank Corp.

    53,085        9,032,413  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    116,233        7,673,703  

Zions Bancorporation

    39,516        2,082,098  
    

 

 

 
       38,872,066  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 3.1%  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    21,356        4,674,188  

Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Inc.

    68,071        8,304,662  

Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B

    43,163        2,936,810  
    

 

 

 
       15,915,660  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.8%  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

    78,730        4,227,014  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 5.2%  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    33,220        4,646,814  

Invesco, Ltd.

    132,150        3,509,904  

Northern Trust Corp.

    54,470        5,604,418  

Raymond James Financial, Inc.

    53,153        4,749,221  

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    67,902        7,882,743  
    

 

 

 
       26,393,100  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.9%  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    10,731        4,373,634  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.8%  

CommScope Holding Co., Inc. (A)

    143,508        4,191,151  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.0%  

Ally Financial, Inc.

    185,528        4,873,821  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 3.4%  

Ball Corp.

    219,126        7,789,929  

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

    160,444        4,304,713  

WestRock Co.

    91,625        5,224,457  
    

 

 

 
       17,319,099  
    

 

 

 
Distributors - 0.8%  

Genuine Parts Co.

    45,490        4,175,527  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 2.4%  

Edison International

    41,177        2,605,269  

Evergy, Inc.

    30,429        1,708,588  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    174,330        7,963,394  
    

 

 

 
       12,277,251  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 2.2%  

Acuity Brands, Inc.

    32,701        3,789,065  

AMETEK, Inc.

    66,176        4,775,260  

Hubbell, Inc.

    25,430        2,688,968  
    

 

 

 
       11,253,293  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 4.2%  

Amphenol Corp., Class A

    64,619        5,631,546  

Arrow Electronics, Inc. (A)

    73,974        5,568,763  

CDW Corp.

    71,593        5,783,998  

Keysight Technologies, Inc. (A)

    77,849        4,595,426  
    

 

 

 
       21,579,733  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 10.7%  

American Campus Communities, Inc.

    59,222        $   2,539,439  

American Homes 4 Rent Trust, Class A

    115,752        2,567,379  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

    30,843        5,301,603  

Boston Properties, Inc.

    42,004        5,268,142  

Brixmor Property Group, Inc.

    206,312        3,596,018  

Essex Property Trust, Inc.

    13,348        3,191,106  

Federal Realty Investment Trust

    35,933        4,547,321  

JBG Smith Properties

    54,022        1,970,182  

Kimco Realty Corp.

    173,553        2,948,666  

Outfront Media, Inc.

    164,687        3,203,162  

Park Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

    49,394        1,512,938  

Rayonier, Inc.

    113,358        4,385,821  

Regency Centers Corp.

    44,531        2,764,485  

Vornado Realty Trust

    69,977        5,172,700  

Weyerhaeuser Co.

    105,860        3,859,656  

WP Carey, Inc.

    28,090        1,863,772  
    

 

 

 
       54,692,390  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.2%  

Kroger Co.

    206,287        5,868,865  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.5%  

Pinnacle Foods, Inc.

    62,807        4,086,224  

Post Holdings, Inc. (A)

    42,461        3,652,495  
    

 

 

 
       7,738,719  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.9%  

National Fuel Gas Co.

    86,833        4,598,676  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 1.1%  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    50,343        5,610,224  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 5.6%  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    64,423        5,493,349  

Cigna Corp.

    33,461        5,686,697  

Henry Schein, Inc. (A)

    49,905        3,625,099  

Humana, Inc.

    14,807        4,407,007  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings (A)

    27,805        4,991,832  

Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B

    40,442        4,506,857  
    

 

 

 
       28,710,841  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.8%  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    96,372        7,628,808  

Marriott International, Inc., Class A

    12,782        1,618,201  
    

 

 

 
       9,247,009  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 2.4%  

Mohawk Industries, Inc. (A)

    41,201        8,828,138  

Newell Brands, Inc.

    142,328        3,670,639  
    

 

 

 
       12,498,777  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.4%  

Energizer Holdings, Inc.

    34,979        2,202,278  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.0%  

Carlisle Cos., Inc.

    48,355        5,237,330  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 7.4%  

Alleghany Corp.

    4,721        2,714,433  

Chubb, Ltd.

    9,394        1,193,226  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    132,951        6,797,785  

Loews Corp.

    181,226        8,749,591  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    51,938        4,257,358  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    49,002        2,594,656  

Progressive Corp.

    69,534        4,112,936  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Unum Group

    66,603        $   2,463,645  

WR Berkley Corp.

    36,902        2,672,074  

XL Group, Ltd.

    46,220        2,586,009  
    

 

 

 
       38,141,713  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 1.2%  

Expedia Group, Inc.

    53,052        6,376,320  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 0.5%  

Match Group, Inc. (A)

    62,354        2,415,594  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 1.1%  

Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.

    41,190        5,369,528  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 2.7%  

IDEX Corp.

    37,156        5,071,051  

Middleby Corp. (A)

    19,704        2,057,492  

Snap-on, Inc.

    40,510        6,510,767  
    

 

 

 
       13,639,310  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.2%  

CBS Corp., Class B

    61,265        3,444,318  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (A)

    87,199        2,930,759  
    

 

 

 
       6,375,077  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 4.3%  

CMS Energy Corp.

    183,350        8,668,788  

Sempra Energy

    43,442        5,044,050  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    125,986        8,144,995  
    

 

 

 
       21,857,833  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 1.9%  

Kohl’s Corp.

    96,609        7,042,796  

Nordstrom, Inc.

    55,272        2,861,984  
    

 

 

 
       9,904,780  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 6.5%  

Energen Corp. (A)

    150,508        10,959,993  

EQT Corp.

    186,243        10,276,889  

PBF Energy, Inc., Class A

    80,423        3,372,136  

Williams Cos., Inc.

    329,546        8,933,992  
    

 

 

 
       33,543,010  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 1.2%  

Coty, Inc., Class A

    226,033        3,187,065  

Edgewell Personal Care Co. (A)

    57,254        2,889,037  
    

 

 

 
       6,076,102  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.9%  

CBRE Group, Inc., Class A (A)

    97,259        $   4,643,145  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.8%  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    44,823        4,299,422  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.9%  

Synopsys, Inc. (A)

    52,598        4,500,811  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 4.4%  

AutoZone, Inc. (A)

    8,738        5,862,586  

Best Buy Co., Inc.

    72,527        5,409,064  

Gap, Inc.

    162,764        5,271,926  

Tiffany & Co.

    45,756        6,021,489  
    

 

 

 
       22,565,065  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 2.1%  

PVH Corp.

    41,775        6,254,553  

Ralph Lauren Corp.

    36,050        4,532,206  
    

 

 

 
       10,786,759  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.9%  

MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc., Class A

    56,435        4,788,510  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $398,070,044)

 

     500,765,438  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 2.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp.,
0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $12,019,051 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $12,261,223.

    $  12,018,150        12,018,150  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $12,018,150)

 

     12,018,150  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $410,088,194)

 

     512,783,588  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.0)% (C)

 

     (82,548
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  512,701,040  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 500,765,438     $     $     $ 500,765,438  

Repurchase Agreement

          12,018,150             12,018,150  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $   500,765,438     $   12,018,150     $     $   512,783,588  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(C)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $398,070,044)

  $ 500,765,438  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $12,018,150)

    12,018,150  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    1,844  

Interest

    300  

Dividends

    731,924  

Net income from securities lending

    3,347  

Prepaid expenses

    1,749  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    513,522,752  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    378,462  

Investment management fees

    345,632  

Distribution and service fees

    49,334  

Transfer agent costs

    1,019  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,199  

Audit and tax fees

    12,424  

Custody fees

    2,401  

Legal fees

    5,447  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    18,810  

Other

    5,984  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    821,712  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   512,701,040  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 307,137  

Additional paid-in capital

    381,429,952  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    5,803,040  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    22,465,517  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    102,695,394  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 512,701,040  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 268,137,633  

Service Class

    244,563,407  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    15,923,035  

Service Class

    14,790,619  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 16.84  

Service Class

    16.54  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 4,829,403  

Interest income

    42,318  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    34,214  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    4,905,935  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    2,158,351  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    310,194  

Transfer agent costs

    3,708  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    8,193  

Audit and tax fees

    12,246  

Custody fees

    24,719  

Legal fees

    15,346  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    10,343  

Other

    6,963  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    2,550,063  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (798

Service Class

    (746
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    2,548,519  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,357,416  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    15,089,951  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (19,061,015
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (3,971,064
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (1,613,648
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,357,416     $ 3,401,716  

Net realized gain (loss)

    15,089,951       11,558,444  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (19,061,015     49,122,023  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (1,613,648     64,082,183  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (2,078,129

Service Class

          (1,439,186
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (3,517,315
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (58,300,852

Service Class

          (53,911,238
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (112,212,090
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (115,729,405
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    431,537       10,882,311  

Service Class

    4,347,705       30,160,641  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    4,779,242       41,042,952  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          60,378,981  

Service Class

          55,350,424  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          115,729,405  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (3,414,150     (30,940,365

Service Class

    (16,561,112     (27,737,523
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (19,975,262     (58,677,888
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (15,196,020     98,094,469  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (16,809,668     46,447,247  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    529,510,708         483,063,461  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   512,701,040     $ 529,510,708  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 5,803,040     $ 3,445,624  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    26,068       648,459  

Service Class

    263,100       1,623,224  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    289,168       2,271,683  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          3,870,447  

Service Class

          3,605,891  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          7,476,338  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (204,165     (1,695,313

Service Class

    (1,003,252     (1,464,260
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,207,417     (3,159,573
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (178,097     2,823,593  

Service Class

    (740,152     3,764,855  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (918,249     6,588,448  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 16.88     $ 19.40     $ 20.41     $ 22.68     $ 21.02     $ 16.21  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.09       0.15       0.16 (B)       0.18       0.22       0.17  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.13     2.07       2.66       (0.79     2.90       4.95  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.04     2.22       2.82       (0.61     3.12       5.12  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.16     (0.45     (0.20     (0.16     (0.09

Net realized gains

          (4.58     (3.38     (1.46     (1.30     (0.22
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (4.74     (3.83     (1.66     (1.46     (0.31
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 16.84     $ 16.88     $ 19.40     $ 20.41     $ 22.68     $ 21.02  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (0.24 )%(D)      13.47     14.59     (2.74 )%      15.29     31.81
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   268,138     $   271,777     $   257,643     $   897,002     $   994,918     $   906,706  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.87 %(E)      0.87     0.88     0.86     0.86     0.86

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.87 %(E)(F)      0.87 %(F)      0.86 %(B)      0.86     0.86     0.86

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.04 %(E)      0.79     0.79 %(B)      0.81     1.00     0.89

Portfolio turnover rate

    7 %(D)      15     26     17     24     29

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 16.60     $ 19.16     $ 20.21     $ 22.48     $ 20.87     $ 16.12  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.06       0.10       0.12 (B)       0.12       0.17       0.12  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.12     2.04       2.61       (0.77     2.87       4.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.06     2.14       2.73       (0.65     3.04       5.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.12     (0.40     (0.16     (0.13     (0.07

Net realized gains

          (4.58     (3.38     (1.46     (1.30     (0.22
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (4.70     (3.78     (1.62     (1.43     (0.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 16.54     $ 16.60     $ 19.16     $ 20.21     $ 22.48     $ 20.87  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (0.36 )%(D)      13.19     14.28     (2.94 )%      14.99     31.47
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   244,563     $   257,734     $   225,420     $   178,501     $   172,889     $   103,938  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.12 %(E)      1.12     1.12     1.11     1.11     1.11

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.12 %(E)(F)      1.12 %(F)      1.11 %(B)      1.11     1.11     1.11

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.78 %(E)      0.54     0.62 %(B)      0.56     0.78     0.65

Portfolio turnover rate

    7 %(D)      15     26     17     24     29

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $1,739.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $100 million

     0.880

Over $100 million

     0.830  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.95    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.20      May 1, 2019

 

(A)   TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

 

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  33,695,182   $  —     $  46,689,215   $  —

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  410,088,194

  $  120,966,199   $  (18,270,805)   $  102,695,394

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short- term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 10-year period, in line with the median for the past 5-year period and below the median for the past 1- and 3-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1- and 10-year periods and below its benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees and TAM agreed upon an additional breakpoint to the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

    $  1,000.00       $  984.80       $  3.81       $  1,021.00       $  3.86       0.77

Service Class

    1,000.00       983.60       5.02       1,019.70       5.11       1.02  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Corporate Debt Securities

     22.7

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     22.4  

Common Stocks

     21.9  

U.S. Government Obligations

     12.1  

Asset-Backed Securities

     9.6  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     4.4  

Investment Companies

     4.0  

Securities Lending Collateral

     1.4  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.4  

Foreign Government Obligations

     0.6  

Preferred Stock

     0.1  

Municipal Government Obligations

     0.0

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (0.6

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 9.6%  
Cayman Islands - 0.1%  

Colony American Finance, Ltd.
Series 2016-2, Class A,
2.55%, 11/15/2048 (A)

    $  286,692        $  280,075  

Goodgreen Trust
Series 2017-2A, Class A,
3.26%, 10/15/2053 (A)

    900,203        873,199  

Hero Funding Trust
Series 2017-3A, Class A2,
3.95%, 09/20/2048 (A)

    821,604        820,860  
    

 

 

 
       1,974,134  
    

 

 

 
United States - 9.5%  

Aames Mortgage Investment Trust
Series 2005-3, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.89% (B), 08/25/2035 (A)

    302,443        296,641  

Academic Loan Funding Trust
Series 2013-1A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.89% (B), 12/26/2044 (A)

    189,354        189,620  

Accredited Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-4, Class A2D,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.41% (B), 12/25/2035

    255,633        255,324  

ACE Securities Corp. Home Equity Loan Trust

    

Series 2002-HE3, Class M1,

1-Month LIBOR + 1.80%, 3.89% (B), 10/25/2032

    346,222        345,483  

Series 2003-HE1, Class M1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 11/25/2033

    655,869        644,735  

Series 2004-HE4, Class M2,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 12/25/2034

    255,446        248,395  

American Credit Acceptance Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-3, Class C,

4.26%, 08/12/2022 (A)

    289,000        291,267  

Series 2016-4, Class C,

2.91%, 02/13/2023 (A)

    284,000        283,379  

American Homes 4 Rent Trust

    

Series 2014-SFR2, Class E,

6.23%, 10/17/2036 (A)

    150,000        165,295  

Series 2014-SFR3, Class E,

6.42%, 12/17/2036 (A)

    175,000        194,871  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class A,

3.47%, 04/17/2052 (A)

    235,509        233,230  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class E,

5.64%, 04/17/2052 (A)

    292,500        312,474  

Series 2015-SFR2, Class D,

5.04%, 10/17/2045 (A)

    700,000        732,551  

Series 2015-SFR2, Class E,

6.07%, 10/17/2045 (A)

    400,000        437,842  

American Tower Trust #1
Series 2013-2A, Class 2A,
3.07%, 03/15/2048 (A)

    450,000        441,556  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

AmeriCredit Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-4, Class B,

1.83%, 12/08/2021

    $   500,000        $   491,879  

Series 2017-1, Class B,

2.30%, 02/18/2022

      235,000          232,368  

Series 2017-1, Class C,

2.71%, 08/18/2022

    127,000        125,551  

Series 2017-1, Class D,

3.13%, 01/18/2023

    284,000        281,439  

Ameriquest Mortgage Securities, Inc. Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2003-10, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 2.55%, 4.64% (B), 12/25/2033

      398,731          391,473  

Anchor Assets IX LLC
Series 2016-1, Class A,
5.13%, 02/15/2020 (A) (C)

    1,500,000        1,500,000  

Argent Securities, Inc. Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates

    

Series 2003-W9, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 2.58%, 4.67% (B), 01/25/2034

    385,412        379,283  

Series 2003-W9, Class M3B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 3.12%, 4.69% (B), 01/25/2034

    464,554        455,683  

Asset-Backed Securities Corp. Home Equity Loan Trust

    

Series 2003-HE6, Class M1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 11/25/2033

    621,882        614,446  

Series 2003-HE6, Class M2,

1-Month LIBOR + 2.48%, 4.57% (B), 11/25/2033

    618,950        624,008  

Series 2003-HE6, Class M3,

1-Month LIBOR + 3.00%, 5.09% (B), 11/25/2033

    571,196        564,641  

Series 2004-HE1, Class M1,

1-Month LIBOR + 1.05%, 3.12% (B), 01/15/2034

    483,010        481,427  

Series 2004-HE3, Class M2,

1-Month LIBOR + 1.68%, 3.77% (B), 06/25/2034

    845,756        840,470  

AXIS Equipment Finance Receivables IV LLC Series 2016-1A, Class A,
2.21%, 11/20/2021 (A)

    136,762        135,948  

B2R Mortgage Trust
Series 2015-1, Class A1,
2.52%, 05/15/2048 (A)

    145,566        143,609  

Series 2015-2, Class A,

3.34%, 11/15/2048 (A)

    780,952        776,502  

Banc of America Funding Corp.
Series 2012-R6, Class 1A1,
3.00%, 10/26/2039 (A) (C)

    22,291        22,148  

Bayview Financial Acquisition Trust
Series 2004-C, Class M3,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.95%, 4.05% (B), 05/28/2044

    736,564        744,380  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

BCC Funding XIII LLC
Series 2016-1, Class A2,
2.20%, 12/20/2021 (A)

    $   211,514        $   210,436  

Bear Stearns Asset-Backed Securities I Trust

    

Series 2004-FR2, Class M3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.80%, 3.89% (B), 06/25/2034

    212,139        209,597  

Series 2004-HE6, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.88%, 3.97% (B), 08/25/2034

    486,683        485,026  

Bear Stearns Asset-Backed Securities Trust
Series 2003-2, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.80%, 3.89% (B), 03/25/2043

    714,223        711,757  

Business Jet Securities LLC
Series 2018-1, Class A,
4.34%, 02/15/2033 (A)

    944,392        945,995  

Series 2018-2, Class A,

4.45%, 06/15/2033 (A) (D)

    1,185,000        1,184,980  

BXG Receivables Note Trust
Series 2012-A, Class A,
2.66%, 12/02/2027 (A)

    21,764        21,392  

Camillo Trust
Series 2016-SFR1,
5.00%, 12/05/2023 (C)

    1,016,692        1,014,469  

Capital Auto Receivables Asset Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A3,
2.79%, 01/20/2022 (A)

    1,785,000        1,780,003  

CarFinance Capital Auto Trust
Series 2015-1A, Class A,
1.75%, 06/15/2021 (A)

    21,241        21,208  

CarMax Auto Owner Trust
Series 2016-3, Class C,
2.20%, 06/15/2022

    850,000        829,512  

Series 2017-3, Class D,

3.46%, 10/16/2023

    906,000        898,818  

CarNow Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class B,
3.49%, 02/15/2021 (A)

    240,466        240,198  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

2.92%, 09/15/2022 (A)

    309,736        308,279  

Centex Home Equity Loan Trust
Series 2004-A, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.69% (B), 01/25/2034

    1,145,819        1,137,715  

Chase Funding Trust

    

Series 2003-2, Class 2A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.56%, 2.65% (B), 02/25/2033

    258,024        246,488  

Series 2003-5, Class 2A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.69% (B), 07/25/2033

    576,894        558,237  

CHEC Loan Trust
Series 2004-1, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 07/25/2034

    286,867        277,727  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

CIG Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
2.71%, 05/15/2023 (A)

    $   318,373        $   316,317  

Citi Held For Asset Issuance
Series 2016-MF1, Class A,
4.48%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    1,188        1,188  

Series 2016-MF1, Class B,
6.64%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    650,000        655,200  

CLUB Credit Trust
Series 2017-P2, Class A,
2.61%, 01/15/2024 (A)

    665,084        662,563  

Continental Credit Card
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
4.56%, 01/15/2023 (A)

    133,682        133,160  

COOF Securitization Trust, Ltd., Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2014-1, Class A,
3.00% (B), 06/25/2040 (A)

    251,488        22,530  

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates
Series 2004-BC1, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (B), 02/25/2034

    696,391        691,324  

Countrywide Partnership Trust
Series 2004-EC1, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.04% (B), 01/25/2035

    372,927        372,261  

CPS Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2014-C, Class C,
3.77%, 08/17/2020 (A)

    100,000        100,454  

Series 2014-D, Class C,

4.35%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    100,000        101,108  

Series 2015-A, Class C,

4.00%, 02/16/2021 (A)

    100,000        100,974  

Series 2016-A, Class B,

3.34%, 05/15/2020 (A)

    402,729        403,402  

Series 2016-C, Class C,

3.27%, 06/15/2022 (A)

    560,000        560,724  

Series 2017-C, Class C,

2.86%, 06/15/2023 (A)

    1,150,000        1,138,653  

Series 2017-C, Class D,

3.79%, 06/15/2023 (A)

    791,000        789,646  

Credit Acceptance Auto Loan Trust
Series 2015-2A, Class A,
2.40%, 02/15/2023 (A)

    34,247        34,245  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

2.56%, 10/15/2025 (A)

    360,000        357,979  

Series 2017-1A, Class B,

3.04%, 12/15/2025 (A)

    250,000        248,674  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

3.48%, 02/17/2026 (A)

    250,000        247,821  

Series 2017-2A, Class B,

3.02%, 04/15/2026 (A)

    1,380,000        1,354,134  

Series 2017-2A, Class C,

3.35%, 06/15/2026 (A)

    250,000        246,104  

Series 2018-1A, Class A,

3.01%, 02/16/2027 (A)

    559,000        553,626  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Credit-Based Asset Servicing & Securitization LLC

    

Series 2003-CB6, Class M1,

1-Month LIBOR + 1.05%, 3.14% (B), 12/25/2033

    $   753,872        $   741,858  

Series 2004-CB2, Class M1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 2.87% (B), 07/25/2033

    828,803        783,449  

CWABS, Inc. Asset-Backed Certificates Trust
Series 2004-6, Class M5,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.91%, 4.00% (B), 08/25/2034

    342,562        341,365  

Diamond Resorts Owner Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
3.27%, 10/22/2029 (A)

    542,102        528,786  

Drive Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2015-AA, Class D,

4.12%, 07/15/2022 (A)

    294,000        296,875  

Series 2015-BA, Class D,

3.84%, 07/15/2021 (A)

    400,000        402,345  

Series 2015-DA, Class D,

    

4.59%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    286,000        290,548  

Series 2016-CA, Class D,

4.18%, 03/15/2024 (A)

    602,000        609,494  

Series 2017-1, Class C,

2.84%, 04/15/2022

    643,000        642,024  

Series 2017-1, Class D,

3.84%, 03/15/2023

    1,130,000        1,139,554  

Series 2017-2, Class C,

2.75%, 09/15/2023

    1,021,000        1,018,723  

Series 2017-3, Class D,

3.53%, 12/15/2023 (A)

    1,500,000        1,494,353  

Series 2017-AA, Class B,

2.51%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    102,807        102,762  

Series 2017-AA, Class C,

2.98%, 01/18/2022 (A)

    260,000        260,022  

Series 2017-AA, Class D,

4.16%, 05/15/2024 (A)

    346,000        350,259  

DT Asset Trust
Series 2017, Class B,
5.84%, 12/16/2022 (C)

    600,000        599,340  

DT Auto Owner Trust

    

Series 2016-4A, Class B,

2.02%, 08/17/2020 (A)

    29,848        29,837  

Series 2016-4A, Class D,

3.77%, 10/17/2022 (A)

    309,600        310,744  

Series 2017-1A, Class D,

3.55%, 11/15/2022 (A)

    315,000        314,900  

Series 2017-2A, Class C,

3.03%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    549,000        547,718  

Series 2017-3A, Class D,

3.58%, 05/15/2023 (A)

    302,000        301,105  

Engs Commercial Finance Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A2,
2.63%, 02/22/2022 (A)

    147,306        145,607  

Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2014-2A, Class C,

3.26%, 12/16/2019 (A)

    12,210        12,217  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Exeter Automobile Receivables Trust (continued)

 

Series 2016-1A, Class C,

5.52%, 10/15/2021 (A)

    $   445,000        $   455,416  

Series 2016-2A, Class A,

2.21%, 07/15/2020 (A)

    13,687        13,684  

Series 2016-3A, Class A,

1.84%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    181,280        180,926  

Series 2016-3A, Class B,

2.84%, 08/16/2021 (A)

    226,000        225,783  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

3.95%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    165,000        165,510  

Series 2017-3A, Class A,

2.05%, 12/15/2021 (A)

    231,819        230,563  

Series 2017-3A, Class C,

3.68%, 07/17/2023 (A)

    910,000        910,015  

First Franklin Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2006-FF2, Class A4,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.29% (B), 02/25/2036

    106,803        106,577  

First Investors Auto Owner Trust

    

Series 2016-2A, Class A1,

1.53%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    52,090        51,996  

Series 2017-2A, Class B,

2.65%, 11/15/2022 (A)

    667,000        658,714  

Series 2017-2A, Class C,

3.00%, 08/15/2023 (A)

    1,500,000        1,468,328  

Series 2017-3A, Class A2,

2.41%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    615,000        606,484  

FirstKey Lending Trust

    

Series 2015-SFR1, Class A,

2.55%, 03/09/2047 (A)

    409,699        407,497  

Series 2015-SFR1, Class B,

3.42%, 03/09/2047 (A)

    240,000        239,341  

Flagship Credit Auto Trust

    

Series 2014-2, Class B,

2.84%, 11/16/2020 (A)

    32,105        32,117  

Series 2014-2, Class C,

3.95%, 12/15/2020 (A)

    66,000        66,384  

Series 2015-3, Class A,

2.38%, 10/15/2020 (A)

    127,669        127,512  

Series 2015-3, Class B,

3.68%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    189,000        190,150  

Series 2015-3, Class C,

4.65%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    126,000        128,124  

Series 2016-1, Class A,

2.77%, 12/15/2020 (A)

    102,932        102,960  

Series 2016-1, Class C,

6.22%, 06/15/2022 (A)

    600,000        624,237  

Series 2016-4, Class C,

2.71%, 11/15/2022 (A)

    423,000        418,629  

Freedom Financial
Series 2018-1, Class A,
3.61%, 07/18/2024 (A)

    926,000        925,922  

GLS Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

2.73%, 10/15/2020 (A)

    42,519        42,519  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

GLS Auto Receivables Trust (continued)

    

Series 2016-1A, Class B,

4.39%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    $   240,000        $   241,680  

Series 2017-1A, Class B,

2.98%, 12/15/2021 (A)

    800,000        794,068  

GMAT Trust
Series 2013-1A, Class A,
6.97% (B), 11/25/2043 (A)

    34,520        34,553  

GO Financial Auto Securitization Trust
Series 2015-2, Class B,
4.80%, 08/17/2020 (A)

    2,806        2,808  

Gold Key Resorts LLC
Series 2014-A, Class A,
3.22%, 03/17/2031 (A)

    117,689        116,253  

Golden Bear LLC
Series 2016-R, Class R,
5.65%, 09/20/2047 (A)

    316,837        317,372  

Goodgreen Trust

    

Series 2017, Class R1,

5.00%, 10/20/2051 (C)

    1,176,231        1,156,706  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

3.74%, 10/15/2052 (A)

    189,701        190,073  

Headlands Residential LLC
Series 2018,
4.25% (B), 06/25/2023

    1,565,000        1,556,919  

Hero Funding Trust

    

Series 2016-3A, Class A1,

3.08%, 09/20/2042 (A)

    247,741        243,636  

Series 2017-1A, Class A2,

4.46%, 09/20/2047 (A)

    657,835        673,051  

Hilton Grand Vacations Trust
Series 2017-AA, Class A,
2.66%, 12/26/2028 (A)

    210,772        207,003  

Home Equity Asset Trust

    

Series 2003-3, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.29%, 3.38% (B), 08/25/2033

    868,821        873,164  

Series 2004-3, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.86%, 2.95% (B), 08/25/2034

    838,594        830,786  

Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust

    

Series 2004-B, Class M8,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 3.30%, 4.68% (B), 11/25/2034

    238,456        219,163  

Series 2006-B, Class 2A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.19%, 2.28% (B), 06/25/2036

    594,619        578,503  

Independent National Mortgage Corp. Home Equity Loan Asset Trust
Series 2004-C, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.84%, 2.93% (B), 03/25/2035

    830,776        831,562  

Kabbage Asset Securitization LLC
Series 2017-1, Class A,
4.57%, 03/15/2022 (A)

    1,960,000        1,978,774  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

KGS-Alpha SBA COOF Trust, Interest Only STRIPS

    

Series 2012-2, Class A,

0.86% (B), 08/25/2038 (A)

    $   940,212        $   22,500  

Series 2013-2, Class A,

1.64% (B), 03/25/2039 (A)

    880,525        36,699  

Series 2014-2, Class A,

2.98% (B), 04/25/2040 (A)

    402,407        32,334  

LendingClub Issuance Trust
Series 2016-NP2, Class A,
3.00%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    23,355        23,340  

Lendmark Funding Trust

    

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

2.83%, 12/22/2025 (A)

    454,000        449,453  

Series 2017-1A, Class B,

3.77%, 12/22/2025 (A)

    1,930,000        1,927,922  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

5.41%, 12/22/2025 (A)

    1,200,000        1,229,557  

Long Beach Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-3, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 2.99% (B), 07/25/2034

    734,096        732,620  

Series 2004-3, Class M4,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.61%, 3.70% (B), 07/25/2034

    225,016        225,551  

Series 2004-4, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 2.99% (B), 10/25/2034

    721,868        722,637  

LV Tower 52
Series 2013-1, Class A,
5.75%, 02/15/2023 (A) (C)

    966,509        966,509  

Mariner Finance Issuance Trust
Series 2017-AA, Class A,
3.62%, 02/20/2029 (A)

    782,000        784,469  

Marlette Funding Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

3.06%, 01/17/2023 (A)

    29,388        29,387  

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

2.83%, 03/15/2024 (A)

    310,527        310,433  

Series 2017-2A, Class A,

2.39%, 07/15/2024 (A)

    1,061,408        1,059,097  

Series 2018-1A, Class A,

2.61%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    708,094        706,066  

Master Asset-Backed Securities Trust

    

Series 2004-OPT2, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 2.99% (B), 09/25/2034

    156,053        152,145  

Series 2005-NC1, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (B), 12/25/2034

    243,759        245,285  

Meritage Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2003-1, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 2.33%, 4.42% (B), 11/25/2033

    696,404        695,151  

Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I, Inc. Trust

    

Series 2004-HE8, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.96%, 3.05% (B), 09/25/2034

    926,583        935,959  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I, Inc. Trust (continued)

 

Series 2004-NC2, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.83%, 2.92% (B), 12/25/2033

    $   281,670        $   280,466  

Series 2004-NC7, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 3.02% (B), 07/25/2034

    383,284        386,459  

Series 2004-NC8, Class M4,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (B), 09/25/2034

    594,835        581,488  

Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Capital I, Inc. Trust
Series 2002-AM3, Class A3,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 02/25/2033

    738,773        723,754  

Nationstar HECM Loan Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class M1,
2.94%, 05/25/2027 (A)

    100,000        99,217  

New Century Home Equity Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-2, Class M3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.01%, 3.10% (B), 08/25/2034

    464,490        463,647  

Series 2004-2, Class M5,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 2.03%, 4.12% (B), 08/25/2034

    278,702        280,044  

Series 2004-4, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 2.86% (B), 02/25/2035

    907,105        901,744  

New Residential Advanced Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T2, Class AT2,

2.58%, 10/15/2049 (A)

    500,000        495,328  

Series 2016-T2, Class CT2,

3.51%, 10/15/2049 (A)

    375,000        370,895  

Nissan Auto Receivables Owner Trust
Series 2017-C, Class A3,
2.12%, 04/18/2022

    645,000        636,179  

NovaStar Mortgage Funding Trust
Series 2003-3, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.13%, 3.08% (B), 12/25/2033

    368,556        369,598  

Ocwen Master Advance Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T1, Class AT1,

2.52%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    1,204,000        1,204,778  

Series 2016-T1, Class CT1,

3.61%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    490,388        490,089  

Series 2016-T1, Class DT1,

4.25%, 08/17/2048 (A)

    526,316        527,107  

Series 2017-T1, Class AT1,

2.50%, 09/15/2048 (A)

    246,000        245,707  

OnDeck Asset Securitization Trust LLC
Series 2018-1A, Class A,
3.50%, 04/18/2022 (A)

    312,000        312,186  

OneMain Direct Auto Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

2.04%, 01/15/2021 (A)

    1,764        1,764  

Series 2017-2A, Class C,

2.82%, 07/15/2024 (A)

    1,315,000        1,294,693  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

OneMain Financial Issuance Trust

    

Series 2015-1A, Class A,

3.19%, 03/18/2026 (A)

    $   483,948        $   484,987  

Series 2015-2A, Class A,

2.57%, 07/18/2025 (A)

    142,047        142,013  

Series 2015-2A, Class B,

3.10%, 07/18/2025 (A)

    279,000        279,027  

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

3.66%, 02/20/2029 (A)

    515,000        518,230  

Oportun Funding III LLC
Series 2016-B, Class A,
3.69%, 07/08/2021 (A)

    571,000        570,886  

Oportun Funding VI LLC

    

Series 2017-A, Class A,

3.23%, 06/08/2023 (A)

    357,000        351,185  

Series 2017-A, Class B,

3.97% (B), 06/08/2023 (A)

    1,000,000        987,683  

Oportun Funding VII LLC
Series 2017-B, Class A,
3.22%, 10/10/2023 (A)

    308,000        303,631  

Oportun Funding VIII LLC
Series 2018-A, Class A,
3.61%, 03/08/2024 (A)

    655,000        652,257  

Option One Mortgage Acceptance Corp. Asset-Backed Certificates
Series 2003-6, Class A2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%, 2.75% (B), 11/25/2033

    482,410        472,935  

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2004-1, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.65%, 3.74% (B), 01/25/2034

    640,897        623,087  

Park Place Securities, Inc. Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2005-WCH1, Class M4,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.25%, 3.34% (B), 01/25/2036

    500,000        502,348  

Pretium Mortgage Credit Partners I LLC

    

Series 2017-NPL5, Class A1,

3.33% (B), 12/30/2032 (A)

    966,070        961,842  

Series 2018-NPL2, Class A1,

3.70% (B), 03/27/2033 (A)

    937,914        934,950  

Progress Residential Trust

    

Series 2015-SFR2, Class A,

2.74%, 06/12/2032 (A)

    1,385,957        1,366,576  

Series 2015-SFR2, Class B,

3.14%, 06/12/2032 (A)

    327,000        323,150  

Series 2015-SFR3, Class A,

3.07%, 11/12/2032 (A)

    1,661,892        1,645,123  

Series 2015-SFR3, Class D,

4.67%, 11/12/2032 (A)

    250,000        252,984  

Series 2015-SFR3, Class E,

5.66%, 11/12/2032 (A)

    200,000        205,652  

Series 2017-SFR1, Class A,

2.77%, 08/17/2034 (A)

    167,462        161,988  

Series 2017-SFR1, Class C,

3.32%, 08/17/2034 (A)

    2,000,000        1,947,860  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Prosper Marketplace Issuance Trust

    

Series 2017-1A, Class A,

2.56%, 06/15/2023 (A)

    $   112,028        $   112,030  

Series 2017-2A, Class A,

2.41%, 09/15/2023 (A)

    215,875        215,491  

Series 2017-3A, Class A,

2.36%, 11/15/2023 (A)

    511,432        509,310  

Purchasing Power Funding LLC
Series 2018-A, Class A,
3.34%, 08/15/2022 (A)

    2,090,000        2,080,530  

RAMP Trust

    

Series 2005-RS6, Class M4,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 06/25/2035

    1,250,000        1,251,427  

Series 2006-RZ2, Class A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.27%, 2.36% (B), 05/25/2036

    764,189        754,020  

Series 2006-RZ3, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (B), 08/25/2036

    1,100,000        1,079,471  

RASC Trust

    

Series 2005-EMX1, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.74% (B), 03/25/2035

    581,534        583,110  

Series 2005-KS9, Class M3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.46%, 2.55% (B), 10/25/2035

    1,036,442        1,039,092  

RBSHD Trust
Series 2013-1A, Class A,
7.69% (B), 10/25/2047 (A) (C)

    108,092        104,026  

Renaissance Home Equity Loan Trust
Series 2003-2, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.88%, 2.97% (B), 08/25/2033

    891,105        869,510  

Renew
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
3.67%, 09/20/2052 (A)

    260,527        258,645  

Rice Park Financing Trust
Series 2016-A, Class A,
4.63%, 10/31/2041 (A) (C)

    1,036,313        1,037,246  

Santander Drive Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2015-5, Class E,
4.67%, 02/15/2023 (A)

    1,560,000        1,577,566  

Santander Retail Auto Lease Trust
Series 2018-A, Class A3,
2.93%, 05/20/2021 (A)

    839,000        836,397  

Securitized Asset-Backed Receivables LLC Trust

    

Series 2004-NC1, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.73%, 3.82% (B), 02/25/2034

    445,072        444,426  

Series 2004-OP2, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 08/25/2034

    610,541        603,001  

Sierra Auto Receivables Securitization Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
2.85%, 01/18/2022 (A)

    23,911        23,907  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

SoFi Consumer Loan Program LLC
Series 2016-2A, Class A,
3.09%, 10/27/2025 (A)

    $   166,537        $   166,238  

Soundview Home Loan Trust

    

Series 2005-OPT1, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.77% (B), 06/25/2035

    884,848        882,844  

Series 2006-OPT3, Class 2A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.17%, 2.26% (B), 06/25/2036

    308,299        306,805  

Specialty Underwriting & Residential Finance Trust
Series 2003-BC4, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 2.99% (B), 11/25/2034

    663,050        636,632  

SpringCastle America Funding LLC
Series 2016-AA, Class A,
3.05%, 04/25/2029 (A)

    377,479        376,083  

Springleaf Funding Trust
Series 2015-AA, Class A,
3.16%, 11/15/2024 (A)

    483,692        483,506  

SPS Servicer Advance Receivables Trust
Series 2016-T1, Class AT1,
2.53%, 11/16/2048 (A)

    700,000        703,206  

Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust

    

Series 2003-BC12, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (B), 11/25/2033

    183,521        176,469  

Series 2004-6, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.95%, 4.04% (B), 07/25/2034

    28,347        28,113  

Structured Asset Securities Corp. Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2006-BC6, Class A4,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.17%, 2.26% (B), 01/25/2037

    355,414        347,580  

Tricolor Auto Securitization Trust
Series 2018-1A, Class A,
5.05%, 12/15/2020 (A) (C)

    1,266,245        1,266,942  

Tricon American Homes Trust
Series 2016-SFR1, Class A,
2.59%, 11/17/2033 (A)

    352,203        340,840  

U.S. Residential Opportunity Fund IV Trust

    

Series 2017-1III, Class A,

3.35% (B), 11/27/2037 (A)

    1,380,089        1,373,799  

Series 2017-1IV, Class A,

3.35% (B), 11/27/2037 (A)

    692,559        685,405  

Upstart Securitization Trust
Series 2017-1, Class A,
2.64%, 06/20/2024 (A)

    167,642        167,301  

Vericrest Opportunity Loan Trust
Series 2018-NPL2, Class A1,
4.34% (B), 05/25/2048 (A)

    968,452        968,040  

Verizon Owner Trust

    

Series 2016-1A, Class A,

    

1.42%, 01/20/2021 (A)

    100,000        99,377  

Series 2017-3A, Class A1A,

    

2.06%, 04/20/2022 (A)

    1,019,000        1,001,544  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

VM DEBT LLC
Series 2017-1, Class A,
6.50%, 10/02/2024 (A) (C)

    $   840,000        $   840,000  

VOLT LIV LLC
Series 2017-NPL1, Class A1,
3.50% (B), 02/25/2047 (A)

    70,994        70,986  

VOLT LIX LLC
Series 2017-NPL6, Class A1,
3.25% (B), 05/25/2047 (A)

    194,388        192,958  

VOLT LV LLC
Series 2017-NPL2, Class A1,
3.50% (B), 03/25/2047 (A)

    247,656        246,808  

VOLT LVI LLC
Series 2017-NPL3, Class A1,
3.50% (B), 03/25/2047 (A)

    578,371        577,020  

VOLT LVII LLC
Series 2017-NPL4, Class A1,
3.38% (B), 04/25/2047 (A)

    315,357        314,440  

VOLT LVIII LLC
Series 2017-NPL5, Class A1,
3.38% (B), 05/28/2047 (A)

    211,985        211,631  

VOLT LX LLC
Series 2017-NPL7, Class A1,
3.25% (B), 06/25/2047 (A)

    325,245        323,429  

VOLT LXI LLC
Series 2017-NPL8, Class A1,
3.13% (B), 06/25/2047 (A)

    360,641        358,125  

VOLT LXIV LLC
Series 2017-NP11, Class A1,
3.38% (B), 10/25/2047 (A)

    1,480,134        1,473,332  

VOLT LXVII LLC
Series 2018-NPL3, Class A1,
4.38% (B), 06/25/2048 (A)

    1,113,000        1,113,000  

VOLT XL LLC
Series 2015-NP14, Class A1,
4.38% (B), 11/27/2045 (A)

    87,986        88,677  

Wells Fargo Home Equity Trust Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2004-1, Class 1A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.39% (B), 04/25/2034

    789,902        772,949  

Westgate Resorts LLC
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
3.05%, 12/20/2030 (A)

    329,177        326,001  

Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2015-3A, Class D,

4.40%, 05/17/2021 (A)

    250,000        250,921  

Series 2016-2A, Class D,

4.10%, 06/15/2021 (A)

    180,000        181,579  

Series 2016-3A, Class C,

2.46%, 01/18/2022 (A)

    863,000        859,387  

Series 2017-1A, Class C,

2.70%, 10/17/2022 (A)

    216,000        215,087  

Series 2017-2A, Class C,

2.59%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    1,231,000        1,217,934  
    

 

 

 
       132,206,033  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $132,778,243)

 

     134,180,167  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 22.7%  
Australia - 0.5%  

APT Pipelines, Ltd.
4.25%, 07/15/2027 (A)

    $   216,000        $   211,682  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.
4.40%, 05/19/2026 (A)

    400,000        392,118  

Fixed until 06/15/2026,
6.75% (B), 06/15/2026 (A) (E)

    450,000        457,313  

BHP Billiton Finance USA, Ltd.
4.13%, 02/24/2042

    70,000        69,491  

5.00%, 09/30/2043

    55,000        61,711  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia
2.50%, 09/18/2022 (A)

    300,000        287,498  

3.45%, 03/16/2023 (A)

    250,000        247,402  

3.90%, 03/16/2028 (A)

    250,000        247,333  

4.50%, 12/09/2025 (A)

    200,000        198,490  

GAIF Bond Issuer Pty, Ltd.
3.40%, 09/30/2026 (A)

    184,000        172,165  

Macquarie Bank, Ltd.
2.60%, 06/24/2019 (A)

    182,000        181,444  

2.85%, 07/29/2020 (A)

    150,000        148,696  

4.00%, 07/29/2025 (A)

    150,000        148,616  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    

Fixed until 11/28/2022, 3.19% (B), 11/28/2023 (A)

    515,000        491,382  

Fixed until 11/28/2027, 3.76% (B), 11/28/2028 (A)

    593,000        547,210  

6.00%, 01/14/2020 (A)

    360,000        374,382  

6.25%, 01/14/2021 (A)

    80,000        84,840  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.
3.38%, 01/14/2026

    250,000        242,070  

Newcrest Finance Pty, Ltd.
5.75%, 11/15/2041 (A)

    128,000        131,640  

Scentre Group Trust 1 / Scentre Group Trust 2
3.50%, 02/12/2025 (A)

    300,000        289,300  

Westpac Banking Corp.
2.00%, 03/03/2020 (A)

    304,000        299,084  

2.50%, 06/28/2022

    220,000        211,449  

2.75%, 01/11/2023

    295,000        281,336  

3.40%, 01/25/2028

    250,000        238,156  

3.65%, 05/15/2023

    205,000        205,198  

Fixed until 11/23/2026, 4.32% (B), 11/23/2031, MTN

    760,000        732,267  
    

 

 

 
       6,952,273  
    

 

 

 
Bermuda - 0.0% (F)  

Athene Holding, Ltd.
4.13%, 01/12/2028

    270,000        248,983  
    

 

 

 
Canada - 1.1%  

Air Canada Pass-Through Trust
3.30%, 07/15/2031 (A)

    344,000        330,715  

3.55%, 07/15/2031 (A)

    248,000        237,720  

3.60%, 09/15/2028 (A)

    301,876        292,125  

4.13%, 11/15/2026 (A)

    205,768        206,242  

Anadarko Finance Co.
7.50%, 05/01/2031

    190,000        235,350  

Bank of Montreal
2.35%, 09/11/2022, MTN

    397,000        379,983  

2.38%, 01/25/2019, MTN

    70,000        69,912  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Canada (continued)  

Bank of Montreal (continued)

    

Fixed until 12/15/2027, 3.80% (B), 12/15/2032

    $   365,000        $   338,103  

Bank of Nova Scotia
1.85%, 04/14/2020 (G)

    400,000        392,806  

2.45%, 09/19/2022

    200,000        191,896  

2.50%, 01/08/2021

    765,000        752,268  

3.13%, 04/20/2021

    790,000        785,921  

Barrick Gold Corp.
6.45%, 10/15/2035

    180,000        214,301  

Brookfield Finance, Inc.
3.90%, 01/25/2028

    118,000        111,554  

4.70%, 09/20/2047

    147,000        139,110  

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce 2.25%, 07/21/2020 (A)

    200,000        196,977  

2.55%, 06/16/2022

    120,000        116,062  

2.70%, 02/02/2021

    885,000        871,449  

Canadian Natural Resources, Ltd.
3.80%, 04/15/2024

    100,000        99,113  

5.85%, 02/01/2035

    150,000        166,715  

6.45%, 06/30/2033

    110,000        128,835  

7.20%, 01/15/2032

    50,000        61,664  

Canadian Pacific Railway Co.
2.90%, 02/01/2025

    468,000        445,553  

6.13%, 09/15/2115

    17,000        20,424  

7.13%, 10/15/2031

    150,000        190,159  

CDP Financial, Inc.
4.40%, 11/25/2019 (A)

    250,000        255,643  

Cenovus Energy, Inc.
4.25%, 04/15/2027 (G)

    400,000        385,278  

6.75%, 11/15/2039

    295,000        323,957  

CNOOC Nexen Finance ULC
4.25%, 04/30/2024

    209,000        211,341  

Enbridge, Inc.
3.70%, 07/15/2027

    54,000        51,171  

4.50%, 06/10/2044

    100,000        91,651  

Fixed until 03/01/2028, 6.25% (B), 03/01/2078

    615,000        578,526  

Encana Corp.
6.50%, 08/15/2034

    135,000        153,947  

7.20%, 11/01/2031

    100,000        120,647  

8.13%, 09/15/2030

    100,000        127,727  

Fortis, Inc.
3.06%, 10/04/2026

    751,000        684,239  

Hydro-Quebec
8.40%, 01/15/2022

    40,000        46,349  

9.40%, 02/01/2021

    220,000        253,811  

Manulife Financial Corp.
Fixed until 02/24/2027, 4.06% (B), 02/24/2032

    695,000        659,120  

Nutrien, Ltd.
3.38%, 03/15/2025

    120,000        112,936  

4.13%, 03/15/2035

    200,000        185,211  

Ontario Teachers’ Cadillac Fairview Properties Trust
3.13%, 03/20/2022 (A)

    200,000        197,359  

3.88%, 03/20/2027 (A)

    201,000        198,557  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Canada (continued)  

Petro-Canada
5.35%, 07/15/2033

    $   50,000        $   54,885  

7.88%, 06/15/2026

    86,000        105,206  

Royal Bank of Canada
1.88%, 02/05/2020

    600,000        590,550  

2.00%, 10/01/2018 - 12/10/2018

    245,000        244,742  

4.65%, 01/27/2026, MTN

    103,000        104,497  

Suncor Energy, Inc.
5.95%, 12/01/2034

    300,000        348,834  

Toronto-Dominion Bank
1.75%, 07/23/2018, MTN

    57,000        56,988  

2.25%, 11/05/2019, MTN

    16,000        15,876  

2.50%, 12/14/2020, MTN

    200,000        196,777  

3.25%, 06/11/2021 (G)

    870,000        869,740  

Fixed until 09/15/2026,
3.63% (B), 09/15/2031

    117,000        110,109  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.
2.50%, 08/01/2022

    30,000        28,822  

3.75%, 10/16/2023

    35,000        35,124  

4.25%, 05/15/2028

    530,000        531,666  

4.63%, 03/01/2034

    115,000        114,901  

4.88%, 01/15/2026

    162,000        169,413  

6.20%, 10/15/2037

    100,000        114,324  

7.25%, 08/15/2038

    100,000        126,461  

Vale Canada, Ltd.
7.20%, 09/15/2032

    140,000        151,900  
    

 

 

 
       15,583,242  
    

 

 

 
Cayman Islands - 0.1%  

CK Hutchison International 16, Ltd.
1.88%, 10/03/2021 (A)

    200,000        190,039  

Hutchison Whampoa International 12 II, Ltd.
3.25%, 11/08/2022 (A)

    200,000        196,868  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.
3.60%, 01/19/2028 (A)

    355,000        335,837  

Vale Overseas, Ltd.

    

6.25%, 08/10/2026

    42,000        45,486  

6.88%, 11/21/2036

    330,000        370,491  

XLIT, Ltd.
6.38%, 11/15/2024

    100,000        112,317  
    

 

 

 
       1,251,038  
    

 

 

 
China - 0.0% (F)  

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Ltd.
2.45%, 10/20/2021

    250,000        240,462  
    

 

 

 
Colombia - 0.0% (F)  

Ecopetrol SA

    

4.13%, 01/16/2025

    107,000        103,790  

5.38%, 06/26/2026

    116,000        119,016  

5.88%, 09/18/2023

    62,000        65,720  
    

 

 

 
       288,526  
    

 

 

 
Denmark - 0.1%  

Danske Bank A/S

    

2.70%, 03/02/2022 (A) (G)

    200,000        194,053  

3.88%, 09/12/2023 (A)

    620,000        615,187  
    

 

 

 
       809,240  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
France - 0.3%  

Air Liquide Finance SA
2.25%, 09/27/2023 (A)

    $   200,000        $   187,831  

BNP Paribas SA
3.80%, 01/10/2024 (A)

    300,000        293,254  

BPCE SA

    

2.75%, 01/11/2023 (A)

    250,000        238,883  

3.25%, 01/11/2028 (A)

    500,000        464,841  

3.38%, 12/02/2026, MTN

    270,000        255,114  

4.63%, 07/11/2024 (A)

    200,000        197,481  

Credit Agricole SA

    

3.75%, 04/24/2023 (A)

    395,000        387,000  

4.13%, 01/10/2027 (A)

    250,000        241,866  

Fixed until 09/23/2019, 6.63% (B), 09/23/2019 (A) (E)

    200,000        200,000  

Fixed until 12/23/2025, 8.13% (B), 12/23/2025 (A) (E)

    200,000        211,750  

Electricite de France SA

    

2.15%, 01/22/2019 (A)

    140,000        139,577  

4.88%, 01/22/2044 (A)

    125,000        126,134  

6.00%, 01/22/2114 (A)

    350,000        364,819  

Societe Generale SA

    

4.25%, 04/14/2025 (A)

    200,000        191,990  

Fixed until 09/13/2021, 7.38% (B), 09/13/2021 (A) (E)

    300,000        305,250  

Total Capital International SA
2.75%, 06/19/2021

    300,000        297,754  
    

 

 

 
       4,103,544  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 0.1%  

Deutsche Bank AG

    

3.70%, 05/30/2024

    133,000        123,463  

3.95%, 02/27/2023

    375,000        360,076  

4.10%, 01/13/2026 (G)

    100,000        92,907  

4.25%, 10/14/2021

    503,000        495,892  
    

 

 

 
       1,072,338  
    

 

 

 
Guernsey, Channel Islands - 0.0% (F)  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3.75%, 03/26/2025

    350,000        336,619  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 0.4%  

AerCap Ireland Capital DAC / AerCap Global Aviation Trust

    

3.30%, 01/23/2023

    150,000        144,177  

3.50%, 01/15/2025

    1,100,000        1,031,896  

GE Capital International Funding Co. Unlimited Co.

    

2.34%, 11/15/2020

    779,000        761,457  

3.37%, 11/15/2025

    250,000        239,956  

4.42%, 11/15/2035

    2,470,000        2,392,886  

Johnson Controls International PLC

    

3.63% (H), 07/02/2024

    23,000        22,679  

3.75%, 12/01/2021

    36,000        36,303  

4.95% (H), 07/02/2064

    147,000        139,795  

5.00%, 03/30/2020

    60,000        61,725  

5.25%, 12/01/2041

    75,000        77,717  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC

    

2.88%, 09/23/2023

    719,000        676,431  

3.20%, 09/23/2026

    450,000        412,375  
    

 

 

 
       5,997,397  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Italy - 0.1%  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

    

3.88%, 01/15/2019, MTN

    $   230,000        $   230,423  

3.88%, 07/14/2027 - 01/12/2028 (A)

    1,075,000        925,315  
    

 

 

 
       1,155,738  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 0.4%  

Dai-ichi Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
Fixed until 07/24/2026, 4.00% (B), 07/24/2026 (A) (E)

    221,000        206,083  

Daiwa Securities Group, Inc.
3.13%, 04/19/2022 (A)

    171,000        167,493  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

    

2.67%, 07/25/2022 (G)

    170,000        164,079  

3.00%, 02/22/2022

    74,000        72,650  

3.78%, 03/02/2025

    225,000        224,204  

Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance Co., Ltd.
2.65%, 09/19/2022 (A)

    200,000        191,796  

Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp.
2.45%, 10/16/2019 (A)

    300,000        297,498  

Mizuho Bank, Ltd.

    

2.45%, 04/16/2019 (A)

    200,000        199,379  

3.60%, 09/25/2024 (A)

    230,000        228,439  

MUFG Bank, Ltd.
4.10%, 09/09/2023 (A)

    200,000        204,208  

ORIX Corp.

    

2.90%, 07/18/2022

    126,000        122,583  

3.25%, 12/04/2024

    300,000        286,634  

Sumitomo Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 09/14/2027, 4.00% (B), 09/14/2077 (A)

    200,000        186,500  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    

2.06%, 07/14/2021

    101,000        96,858  

2.44%, 10/19/2021

    127,000        122,638  

2.63%, 07/14/2026

    134,000        122,093  

2.78%, 07/12/2022 - 10/18/2022

    975,000        941,730  

2.85%, 01/11/2022

    250,000        244,177  

3.10%, 01/17/2023

    792,000        773,856  

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank, Ltd.
2.05%, 10/18/2019 (A)

    350,000        345,131  
    

 

 

 
       5,198,029  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 0.1%  

Allergan Funding SCS

    

3.45%, 03/15/2022

    269,000        264,693  

3.85%, 06/15/2024

    164,000        161,048  

4.55%, 03/15/2035

    345,000        326,423  

Covidien International Finance SA
2.95%, 06/15/2023

    68,000        66,692  

Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Finance SA
2.63%, 05/01/2020

    60,000        59,493  

Nvent Finance Sarl
4.55%, 04/15/2028 (A)

    187,000        183,479  

Schlumberger Investment SA

    

2.40%, 08/01/2022 (A)

    70,000        67,219  

3.30%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    23,000        23,014  
    

 

 

 
       1,152,061  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.2%  

America Movil SAB de CV

    

3.13%, 07/16/2022

    200,000        196,563  

5.00%, 03/30/2020

    150,000        154,143  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Mexico (continued)  

Coca-Cola Femsa SAB de CV
3.88%, 11/26/2023

    $   150,000        $   150,205  

Mexico City Airport Trust
5.50%, 07/31/2047 (A)

    200,000        178,200  

Petroleos Mexicanos

    

4.63%, 09/21/2023

    233,000        229,738  

4.88%, 01/18/2024

    65,000        64,166  

5.35%, 02/12/2028 (A)

    85,000        80,478  

6.35%, 02/12/2048 (A)

    159,000        143,497  

6.38%, 02/04/2021 - 01/23/2045

    279,000        269,189  

6.50%, 03/13/2027

    609,000        624,481  

6.63%, 06/15/2035

    100,000        97,750  

6.75%, 09/21/2047

    209,000        197,066  

6.88%, 08/04/2026

    374,000        393,074  
    

 

 

 
       2,778,550  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 0.5%  

ABN AMRO Bank NV

    

2.45%, 06/04/2020 (A)

    500,000        491,899  

2.50%, 10/30/2018 (A)

    200,000        199,957  

4.75%, 07/28/2025 (A)

    300,000        298,266  

Airbus Finance BV
2.70%, 04/17/2023 (A)

    64,000        61,838  

Airbus SE

    

3.15%, 04/10/2027 (A)

    188,000        179,757  

3.95%, 04/10/2047 (A)

    150,000        147,156  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA

    

3.75%, 07/21/2026

    300,000        280,840  

4.38%, 08/04/2025

    250,000        245,108  

4.63%, 12/01/2023

    250,000        251,818  

Deutsche Telekom International Finance BV

    

2.82%, 01/19/2022 (A)

    150,000        145,657  

3.60%, 01/19/2027 (A)

    10,000        9,430  

4.38%, 06/21/2028 (A)

    460,000        456,360  

EDP Finance BV

    

3.63%, 07/15/2024 (A) (G)

    200,000        191,496  

5.25%, 01/14/2021 (A)

    380,000        391,602  

Enel Finance International NV

    

3.50%, 04/06/2028 (A)

    465,000        417,837  

3.63%, 05/25/2027 (A)

    220,000        201,237  

Heineken NV
3.40%, 04/01/2022 (A)

    150,000        150,580  

ING Bank NV

    

1.65%, 08/15/2019 (A)

    220,000        216,701  

5.80%, 09/25/2023 (A)

    285,000        301,995  

ING Groep NV
3.95%, 03/29/2027

    271,000        264,489  

Mylan NV
3.95%, 06/15/2026

    97,000        92,635  

Shell International Finance BV

    

2.13%, 05/11/2020

    140,000        138,322  

3.25%, 05/11/2025

    345,000        338,037  

3.75%, 09/12/2046

    421,000        391,342  

4.13%, 05/11/2035

    256,000        259,675  

Siemens Financieringsmaatschappij NV

    

2.00%, 09/15/2023 (A)

    350,000        325,082  

3.13%, 03/16/2024 (A)

    250,000        244,144  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Netherlands (continued)  

Teva Pharmaceutical Finance Netherlands III BV
2.80%, 07/21/2023

    $   358,000        $   309,223  
    

 

 

 
       7,002,483  
    

 

 

 
New Zealand - 0.1%  

ANZ New Zealand International, Ltd.

    

2.60%, 09/23/2019 (A)

    200,000        198,951  

3.45%, 07/17/2027 (A)

    222,000        212,391  

BNZ International Funding, Ltd.
2.65%, 11/03/2022 (A)

    550,000        526,798  
    

 

 

 
       938,140  
    

 

 

 
Norway - 0.0% (F)  

Equinor ASA

    

2.45%, 01/17/2023

    58,000        55,931  

2.65%, 01/15/2024

    143,000        137,126  

3.15%, 01/23/2022

    51,000        51,061  

3.25%, 11/10/2024

    61,000        60,063  
    

 

 

 
       304,181  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.0% (F)  

Korea Gas Corp.
1.88%, 07/18/2021 (A)

    200,000        190,105  

Korea Southern Power Co., Ltd.
3.00%, 01/29/2021 (A)

    200,000        197,085  
    

 

 

 
       387,190  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 0.0% (F)  

BOC Aviation, Ltd.
2.75%, 09/18/2022 (A)

    210,000        199,607  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 0.1%  

Banco Santander SA

    

3.85%, 04/12/2023

    600,000        586,795  

4.38%, 04/12/2028

    200,000        191,225  

Telefonica Emisiones SAU

    

4.10%, 03/08/2027

    163,000        157,635  

4.67%, 03/06/2038

    290,000        271,256  

5.13%, 04/27/2020

    102,000        105,226  
    

 

 

 
       1,312,137  
    

 

 

 
Sweden - 0.1%  

Nordea Bank AB
4.25%, 09/21/2022 (A)

    200,000        202,849  

4.88%, 01/27/2020 (A)

    200,000        205,382  

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB
2.45%, 05/27/2020 (A)

    580,000        571,416  

Stadshypotek AB
1.88%, 10/02/2019 (A)

    250,000        247,048  

Swedbank AB
2.80%, 03/14/2022 (A)

    695,000        680,288  
    

 

 

 
       1,906,983  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 0.3%  

Credit Suisse AG
2.30%, 05/28/2019, MTN

    250,000        248,798  

5.30%, 08/13/2019, MTN

    100,000        102,542  

Credit Suisse Group AG
3.57%, 01/09/2023 (A)

    750,000        734,649  

Fixed until 01/12/2028, 3.87% (B), 01/12/2029 (A)

    250,000        235,082  

4.28%, 01/09/2028 (A)

    580,000        564,193  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Switzerland (continued)  

UBS Group Funding Switzerland AG

    

Fixed until 08/15/2022, 2.86% (B), 08/15/2023 (A)

    $   1,140,000        $   1,091,112  

3.49%, 05/23/2023 (A)

    615,000        601,233  

4.13%, 09/24/2025 - 04/15/2026 (A)

    400,000        396,538  
    

 

 

 
       3,974,147  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 1.2%  

Anglo American Capital PLC
3.63%, 09/11/2024 (A)

    235,000        222,500  

4.00%, 09/11/2027 (A)

    250,000        232,755  

Aon PLC
3.50%, 06/14/2024

    200,000        194,546  

BAE Systems PLC
5.80%, 10/11/2041 (A)

    25,000        28,858  

Barclays PLC
3.65%, 03/16/2025

    200,000        187,326  

3.68%, 01/10/2023

    458,000        445,387  

4.34%, 01/10/2028

    473,000        449,246  

Fixed until 05/16/2023, 4.34% (B), 05/16/2024

    600,000        592,582  

4.38%, 01/12/2026

    500,000        485,632  

BAT International Finance PLC
2.75%, 06/15/2020 (A)

    250,000        247,273  

BP Capital Markets PLC
3.02%, 01/16/2027

    430,000        407,006  

3.22%, 04/14/2024

    280,000        274,734  

3.25%, 05/06/2022

    227,000        226,285  

3.54%, 11/04/2024

    230,000        228,226  

3.81%, 02/10/2024

    92,000        92,939  

HSBC Bank PLC
4.75%, 01/19/2021 (A)

    240,000        247,726  

HSBC Holdings PLC
2.65%, 01/05/2022

    403,000        390,197  

Fixed until 03/13/2022, 3.26% (B), 03/13/2023

    1,275,000        1,248,891  

Fixed until 05/18/2023, 3.95% (B), 05/18/2024

    520,000        518,138  

Fixed until 03/13/2027, 4.04% (B), 03/13/2028

    700,000        679,557  

4.25%, 08/18/2025

    200,000        196,357  

4.38%, 11/23/2026

    200,000        196,599  

Fixed until 06/19/2028, 4.58% (B), 06/19/2029

    490,000        494,917  

4.88%, 01/14/2022

    100,000        104,256  

Fixed until 03/30/2025, 6.38% (B), 03/30/2025 (E)

    295,000        289,469  

Invesco Finance PLC
3.75%, 01/15/2026

    62,000        60,948  

4.00%, 01/30/2024

    74,000        74,436  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    

Fixed until 11/07/2027, 3.57% (B), 11/07/2028

    855,000        788,849  

3.75%, 01/11/2027

    317,000        299,645  

4.38%, 03/22/2028

    221,000        218,020  

4.58%, 12/10/2025

    200,000        196,052  

Nationwide Building Society
Fixed until 03/08/2028, 4.30% (B), 03/08/2029 (A) (G)

    675,000        649,905  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United Kingdom (continued)  

Reckitt Benckiser Treasury Services PLC
2.75%, 06/26/2024 (A)

    $   665,000        $   628,253  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    

Fixed until 05/15/2022, 3.50% (B), 05/15/2023

    1,263,000        1,223,478  

Fixed until 06/25/2023, 4.52% (B), 06/25/2024

    235,000        235,168  

Santander UK Group Holdings PLC
3.13%, 01/08/2021

    150,000        147,921  

Fixed until 01/05/2023, 3.37% (B), 01/05/2024

    475,000        456,727  

Fixed until 11/03/2027, 3.82% (B), 11/03/2028

    500,000        459,058  

4.75%, 09/15/2025 (A)

    220,000        214,833  

Standard Chartered PLC
4.05%, 04/12/2026 (A)

    200,000        193,589  

5.20%, 01/26/2024 (A)

    210,000        214,253  

Vodafone Group PLC
4.13%, 05/30/2025

    483,000        481,163  

4.38%, 05/30/2028

    300,000        296,434  

5.00%, 05/30/2038

    516,000        508,822  

5.25%, 05/30/2048

    367,000        365,984  

6.25%, 11/30/2032

    180,000        201,904  
    

 

 

 
       16,596,844  
    

 

 

 
United States - 16.9%  

21st Century Fox America, Inc.
6.15%, 02/15/2041

    150,000        179,246  

6.55%, 03/15/2033

    50,000        59,694  

6.65%, 11/15/2037

    100,000        124,127  

9.50%, 07/15/2024

    80,000        102,971  

ABB Finance USA, Inc.
2.88%, 05/08/2022

    23,000        22,590  

3.80%, 04/03/2028

    190,000        191,486  

4.38%, 05/08/2042

    12,000        12,308  

Abbott Laboratories
3.75%, 11/30/2026

    445,000        437,400  

3.88%, 09/15/2025

    129,000        128,586  

AbbVie, Inc.
2.00%, 11/06/2018

    161,000        160,524  

3.20%, 05/14/2026

    385,000        359,493  

4.50%, 05/14/2035

    510,000        496,369  

AEP Texas, Inc.
3.95%, 06/01/2028 (A)

    365,000        363,852  

Aetna, Inc.
2.80%, 06/15/2023

    84,000        80,038  

3.88%, 08/15/2047

    335,000        299,707  

4.50%, 05/15/2042

    10,000        9,807  

6.75%, 12/15/2037

    70,000        88,548  

AIG SunAmerica Global Financing X
6.90%, 03/15/2032 (A)

    150,000        193,894  

Air Lease Corp.
3.25%, 03/01/2025

    405,000        375,765  

Alabama Power Co.
3.55%, 12/01/2023

    76,000        76,413  

3.75%, 03/01/2045

    25,000        23,276  

4.10%, 01/15/2042

    31,000        30,527  

4.15%, 08/15/2044

    24,000        23,687  

6.00%, 03/01/2039

    38,000        47,117  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Albemarle Corp.
5.45%, 12/01/2044

    $   100,000        $   106,442  

Allergan, Inc.
2.80%, 03/15/2023

    129,000        121,801  

3.38%, 09/15/2020

    97,000        97,169  

Allstate Corp.
3.15%, 06/15/2023

    110,000        108,904  

Altria Group, Inc.
2.63%, 09/16/2026

    255,000        232,212  

3.88%, 09/16/2046

    365,000        320,716  

Amazon.com, Inc.
2.80%, 08/22/2024

    335,000        322,785  

3.15%, 08/22/2027

    525,000        502,787  

3.88%, 08/22/2037

    410,000        400,206  

4.05%, 08/22/2047

    175,000        171,431  

4.25%, 08/22/2057

    350,000        345,112  

4.80%, 12/05/2034

    117,000        128,190  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust
3.00%, 04/15/2030

    450,794        423,365  

3.65%, 02/15/2029 - 12/15/2029

    604,675        588,047  

3.70%, 04/15/2027 - 04/01/2028

    462,701        448,198  

4.95%, 07/15/2024

    418,732        431,566  

American Express Co.
2.65%, 12/02/2022

    103,000        98,906  

3.40%, 02/27/2023

    545,000        538,673  

3.63%, 12/05/2024

    21,000        20,683  

American Express Credit Corp.
1.80%, 07/31/2018, MTN

    130,000        129,942  

1.88%, 11/05/2018, MTN

    39,000        38,915  

2.13%, 03/18/2019

    75,000        74,712  

2.25%, 08/15/2019 - 05/05/2021, MTN

    197,000        193,645  

2.38%, 05/26/2020, MTN

    216,000        212,865  

2.60%, 09/14/2020, MTN

    75,000        74,063  

2.70%, 03/03/2022, MTN

    60,000        58,578  

American Honda Finance Corp.
2.25%, 08/15/2019, MTN

    140,000        139,201  

2.30%, 09/09/2026, MTN

    40,000        36,339  

2.90%, 02/16/2024, MTN

    70,000        67,908  

American International Group, Inc.
3.75%, 07/10/2025

    69,000        66,649  

3.88%, 01/15/2035

    794,000        706,359  

4.13%, 02/15/2024

    145,000        145,668  

4.20%, 04/01/2028

    55,000        53,810  

4.50%, 07/16/2044

    60,000        55,874  

American Tower Corp.
3.13%, 01/15/2027

    145,000        129,588  

3.38%, 10/15/2026

    199,000        184,191  

3.60%, 01/15/2028

    355,000        328,931  

American Water Capital Corp.
3.40%, 03/01/2025

    59,000        58,197  

3.85%, 03/01/2024

    200,000        202,620  

4.00%, 12/01/2046

    91,000        88,579  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.
2.88%, 09/15/2026

    190,000        177,309  

Amgen, Inc.
2.60%, 08/19/2026

    260,000        234,679  

3.63%, 05/15/2022

    30,000        30,178  

4.40%, 05/01/2045

    340,000        324,045  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Amgen, Inc. (continued)

    

4.56%, 06/15/2048

    $   100,000        $   98,274  

5.70%, 02/01/2019

    50,000        50,821  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
3.45%, 07/15/2024

    240,000        230,614  

5.55%, 03/15/2026

    265,000        284,005  

Analog Devices, Inc.
3.13%, 12/05/2023

    85,000        82,529  

4.50%, 12/05/2036

    140,000        139,521  

Andeavor Logistics, LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.
4.25%, 12/01/2027

    134,000        128,358  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.
3.30%, 02/01/2023

    387,000        383,764  

3.65%, 02/01/2026

    900,000        881,049  

4.70%, 02/01/2036

    1,467,000        1,486,873  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.
4.00%, 04/13/2028

    250,000        249,419  

4.38%, 04/15/2038

    690,000        669,855  

4.44%, 10/06/2048

    255,000        245,393  

4.60%, 04/15/2048

    205,000        201,977  

4.75%, 04/15/2058

    50,000        48,838  

ANR Pipeline Co.
9.63%, 11/01/2021

    70,000        84,721  

Anthem, Inc.
3.30%, 01/15/2023

    21,000        20,630  

3.50%, 08/15/2024

    208,000        202,705  

3.65%, 12/01/2027

    475,000        449,962  

4.10%, 03/01/2028

    105,000        102,715  

4.63%, 05/15/2042

    50,000        48,467  

4.65%, 08/15/2044

    97,000        94,101  

Apache Corp.
3.25%, 04/15/2022

    14,000        13,762  

4.75%, 04/15/2043

    23,000        21,859  

5.10%, 09/01/2040

    90,000        88,553  

6.00%, 01/15/2037

    160,000        174,450  

6.90%, 09/15/2018

    50,000        50,356  

Appalachian Power Co.
5.80%, 10/01/2035

    25,000        29,288  

6.70%, 08/15/2037

    55,000        71,378  

Apple, Inc.
2.15%, 02/09/2022

    327,000        316,849  

2.45%, 08/04/2026

    1,005,000        922,431  

2.75%, 01/13/2025

    300,000        287,127  

2.85%, 05/06/2021 - 05/11/2024

    500,000        491,854  

2.90%, 09/12/2027

    299,000        280,683  

3.00%, 02/09/2024 - 06/20/2027

    721,000        698,561  

3.20%, 05/13/2025 - 05/11/2027

    567,000        548,101  

3.35%, 02/09/2027

    410,000        400,364  

3.45%, 02/09/2045

    481,000        429,882  

3.75%, 09/12/2047 - 11/13/2047

    510,000        478,158  

3.85%, 08/04/2046

    219,000        206,561  

4.50%, 02/23/2036

    85,000        91,214  

4.65%, 02/23/2046

    40,000        43,092  

Arconic, Inc.
5.90%, 02/01/2027

    345,000        347,587  

Arizona Public Service Co.
2.20%, 01/15/2020

    83,000        81,956  

5.05%, 09/01/2041

    23,000        25,725  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Arrow Electronics, Inc.
3.25%, 09/08/2024

    $   132,000        $   123,395  

3.88%, 01/12/2028

    148,000        138,690  

Assurant, Inc.
4.20%, 09/27/2023

    250,000        249,843  

AT&T, Inc.
3.95%, 01/15/2025

    237,000        231,793  

4.13%, 02/17/2026

    216,000        211,122  

4.30%, 02/15/2030 (A)

    1,310,000        1,236,517  

4.30%, 12/15/2042

    454,000        385,833  

4.35%, 06/15/2045

    1,065,000        902,201  

4.50%, 05/15/2035 - 03/09/2048

    380,000        345,507  

4.75%, 05/15/2046

    490,000        437,706  

4.90%, 08/15/2037 (A)

    936,000        888,207  

5.35%, 09/01/2040

    79,000        77,101  

5.80%, 02/15/2019

    25,000        25,429  

6.38%, 03/01/2041

    205,000        223,496  

Athene Global Funding
2.75%, 04/20/2020 (A)

    281,000        277,590  

4.00%, 01/25/2022 (A)

    236,000        237,692  

Atmos Energy Corp.
4.13%, 10/15/2044

    75,000        75,695  

8.50%, 03/15/2019

    126,000        130,826  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
2.85%, 03/15/2023, MTN

    170,000        164,510  

3.50%, 11/15/2024, MTN

    70,000        68,948  

3.90%, 10/15/2046, MTN

    34,000        31,575  

Avangrid, Inc.
3.15%, 12/01/2024

    108,000        103,843  

Aviation Capital Group LLC
2.88%, 01/20/2022 (A)

    540,000        522,303  

3.88%, 05/01/2023 (A)

    725,000        722,895  

BAE Systems Holdings, Inc.
3.80%, 10/07/2024 (A)

    35,000        34,932  

3.85%, 12/15/2025 (A)

    200,000        197,694  

6.38%, 06/01/2019 (A)

    80,000        82,401  

Baker Hughes a GE Co. LLC
5.13%, 09/15/2040

    115,000        123,269  

Baker Hughes a GE Co. LLC / Baker Hughes Co-Obligor, Inc.
3.34%, 12/15/2027

    250,000        232,632  

Baltimore Gas & Electric Co.
3.50%, 08/15/2046

    141,000        126,161  

5.20%, 06/15/2033

    200,000        223,278  

Bank of America Corp.
2.15%, 11/09/2020, MTN

    420,000        410,325  

2.25%, 04/21/2020, MTN

    190,000        187,393  

2.50%, 10/21/2022, MTN

    1,190,000        1,139,839  

2.60%, 01/15/2019

    42,000        41,973  

2.63%, 10/19/2020, MTN

    115,000        113,585  

2.65%, 04/01/2019

    200,000        199,788  

Fixed until 04/24/2022,
2.88% (B), 04/24/2023

    340,000        330,272  

Fixed until 12/20/2022,
3.00% (B), 12/20/2023

    1,458,000        1,413,585  

Fixed until 10/01/2024, 3.09% (B), 10/01/2025, MTN

    161,000        153,309  

Fixed until 01/20/2022, 3.12% (B), 01/20/2023, MTN

    351,000        345,203  

3.25%, 10/21/2027, MTN

    195,000        181,734  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Bank of America Corp. (continued)

    

3.30%, 01/11/2023, MTN

    $   528,000        $   520,254  

Fixed until 01/23/2025, 3.37% (B), 01/23/2026

    250,000        240,529  

Fixed until 12/20/2027, 3.42% (B), 12/20/2028

    586,000        551,821  

Fixed until 04/24/2027, 3.71% (B), 04/24/2028

    1,625,000        1,567,201  

3.95%, 04/21/2025, MTN

    338,000        331,015  

Fixed until 03/05/2028, 3.97% (B), 03/05/2029, MTN

    920,000        905,494  

4.00%, 01/22/2025, MTN

    378,000        373,144  

Fixed until 04/24/2037, 4.24% (B), 04/24/2038

    175,000        169,991  

4.25%, 10/22/2026, MTN

    142,000        140,319  

Fixed until 01/20/2047, 4.44% (B), 01/20/2048, MTN

    60,000        58,578  

Fixed until 03/15/2028, 5.88% (B), 03/15/2028 (E)

    190,000        185,725  

5.88%, 02/07/2042, MTN

    20,000        23,414  

Fixed until 03/10/2026, 6.30% (B), 03/10/2026 (E) (G)

    335,000        353,844  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.
2.20%, 03/04/2019, MTN

    60,000        59,831  

2.60%, 08/17/2020 - 02/07/2022, MTN

    282,000        278,128  

Fixed until 05/16/2022, 2.66% (B), 05/16/2023, MTN

    1,009,000        979,143  

2.80%, 05/04/2026, MTN

    51,000        47,962  

3.25%, 09/11/2024, MTN

    190,000        186,532  

4.15%, 02/01/2021, MTN

    55,000        56,472  

4.60%, 01/15/2020, MTN

    100,000        102,448  

Barrick North America Finance LLC
4.40%, 05/30/2021

    16,000        16,552  

BAT Capital Corp.
3.22%, 08/15/2024 (A)

    265,000        251,017  

3.56%, 08/15/2027 (A)

    200,000        186,080  

4.39%, 08/15/2037 (A)

    446,000        418,411  

Baxalta, Inc.
3.60%, 06/23/2022

    65,000        64,332  

5.25%, 06/23/2045

    28,000        28,891  

Bayer US Finance LLC
3.38%, 10/08/2024 (A)

    200,000        192,728  

BB&T Corp.
2.45%, 01/15/2020, MTN

    56,000        55,453  

2.63%, 06/29/2020, MTN

    270,000        267,123  

6.85%, 04/30/2019, MTN

    60,000        62,044  

Becton Dickinson and Co.
3.36%, 06/06/2024

    570,000        547,533  

3.70%, 06/06/2027

    205,000        194,053  

3.73%, 12/15/2024

    13,000        12,691  

Berkshire Hathaway Energy Co.
2.40%, 02/01/2020

    45,000        44,633  

3.50%, 02/01/2025

    71,000        70,484  

3.75%, 11/15/2023

    293,000        296,539  

6.13%, 04/01/2036

    122,000        150,462  

Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corp.
4.40%, 05/15/2042

    62,000        63,356  

BlackRock, Inc.
3.50%, 03/18/2024

    40,000        40,264  

Blackstone Holdings Finance Co. LLC
4.45%, 07/15/2045 (A)

    33,000        31,733  

5.88%, 03/15/2021 (A)

    120,000        127,569  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

BMW US Capital LLC
2.25%, 09/15/2023 (A)

    $   180,000        $   167,702  

3.45%, 04/12/2023 (A)

    600,000        593,705  

Booking Holdings, Inc.
3.55%, 03/15/2028

    250,000        237,958  

Boston Gas Co.
4.49%, 02/15/2042 (A)

    24,000        24,723  

Boston Properties, LP
3.20%, 01/15/2025

    190,000        180,840  

3.65%, 02/01/2026

    329,000        317,321  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc.
3.70%, 06/22/2027

    500,000        444,079  

4.70%, 06/22/2047

    140,000        115,379  

British Airways Pass-Through Trust
4.13%, 03/20/2033 (A)

    344,000        339,298  

Brixmor Operating Partnership, LP
3.85%, 02/01/2025

    150,000        144,674  

Broadcom Corp. / Broadcom Cayman Finance, Ltd.
3.13%, 01/15/2025

    450,000        417,448  

3.50%, 01/15/2028

    155,000        141,148  

3.63%, 01/15/2024

    361,000        349,451  

3.88%, 01/15/2027

    100,000        94,585  

Brooklyn Union Gas Co.
4.27%, 03/15/2048 (A)

    160,000        159,329  

Buckeye Partners, LP
3.95%, 12/01/2026

    23,000        20,868  

4.88%, 02/01/2021

    220,000        223,851  

5.60%, 10/15/2044

    280,000        261,310  

5.85%, 11/15/2043

    100,000        96,377  

Bunge, Ltd. Finance Corp.
3.50%, 11/24/2020

    55,000        54,968  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC
3.00%, 04/01/2025

    485,000        465,140  

3.90%, 08/01/2046

    275,000        259,221  

5.15%, 09/01/2043

    231,000        256,024  

5.40%, 06/01/2041

    60,000        68,782  

6.15%, 05/01/2037

    200,000        246,443  

7.95%, 08/15/2030

    200,000        271,752  

Campbell Soup Co.
3.95%, 03/15/2025

    270,000        260,332  

4.15%, 03/15/2028 (G)

    330,000        314,226  

Capital One Bank USA NA
3.38%, 02/15/2023

    950,000        925,359  

Capital One Financial Corp.
3.20%, 02/05/2025

    175,000        164,287  

3.75%, 04/24/2024 - 07/28/2026

    260,000        246,755  

4.20%, 10/29/2025

    100,000        97,116  

Capital One NA
2.35%, 08/17/2018

    250,000        249,920  

2.40%, 09/05/2019

    300,000        297,573  

2.65%, 08/08/2022

    375,000        359,826  

Cardinal Health, Inc.
4.90%, 09/15/2045

    60,000        57,391  

Cargill, Inc.
3.30%, 03/01/2022 (A) (G)

    110,000        110,091  

Carlyle Investment Management LLC
3-Month LIBOR + 2.00%, 4.34% (B), 07/15/2019 (D) (I)

    17,961        17,848  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Caterpillar Financial Services Corp.
2.10%, 06/09/2019, MTN

    $   43,000        $   42,764  

2.75%, 08/20/2021, MTN

    60,000        59,192  

2.85%, 06/01/2022, MTN

    77,000        75,638  

3.75%, 11/24/2023, MTN

    121,000        122,769  

7.15%, 02/15/2019, MTN

    100,000        102,780  

Caterpillar, Inc.
2.60%, 06/26/2022

    31,000        30,154  

CBS Corp.
3.38%, 02/15/2028 (G)

    690,000        621,001  

3.70%, 08/15/2024

    173,000        168,274  

4.00%, 01/15/2026

    83,000        80,494  

4.85%, 07/01/2042

    100,000        95,301  

4.90%, 08/15/2044

    68,000        65,533  

Celgene Corp.
3.25%, 08/15/2022

    20,000        19,606  

3.63%, 05/15/2024

    186,000        181,462  

4.35%, 11/15/2047

    377,000        332,008  

4.55%, 02/20/2048

    135,000        123,280  

5.70%, 10/15/2040

    114,000        123,310  

Centel Capital Corp.
9.00%, 10/15/2019

    25,000        26,375  

CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric LLC
3.00%, 02/01/2027

    137,000        129,788  

CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp.
4.50%, 01/15/2021

    130,000        132,853  

CF Industries, Inc.
4.50%, 12/01/2026 (A)

    220,000        218,441  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital 3.75%, 02/15/2028

    435,000        393,962  

4.91%, 07/23/2025

    803,000        810,937  

5.38%, 04/01/2038 - 05/01/2047

    904,000        841,900  

6.38%, 10/23/2035

    89,000        93,006  

6.83%, 10/23/2055

    120,000        128,653  

Chevron Corp.
2.36%, 12/05/2022

    50,000        47,802  

2.41%, 03/03/2022

    200,000        195,128  

2.57%, 05/16/2023

    200,000        192,751  

2.90%, 03/03/2024

    161,000        156,608  

2.95%, 05/16/2026

    305,000        292,613  

3.19%, 06/24/2023

    74,000        73,630  

Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. LLC / Chevron Phillips Chemical Co., LP
3.40%, 12/01/2026 (A)

    95,000        92,742  

Chubb INA Holdings, Inc.
2.88%, 11/03/2022

    91,000        89,411  

3.15%, 03/15/2025

    131,000        126,905  

3.35%, 05/03/2026

    63,000        61,083  

Cisco Systems, Inc.
1.85%, 09/20/2021

    200,000        190,935  

2.20%, 02/28/2021

    200,000        196,220  

2.95%, 02/28/2026

    117,000        112,423  

3.00%, 06/15/2022

    222,000        221,113  

Citigroup, Inc.
2.15%, 07/30/2018

    82,000        81,982  

2.75%, 04/25/2022

    750,000        725,961  

2.90%, 12/08/2021

    300,000        293,887  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Citigroup, Inc. (continued)

    

Fixed until 01/24/2022, 3.14% (B), 01/24/2023

    $   596,000        $   583,912  

3.20%, 10/21/2026

    194,000        180,406  

3.40%, 05/01/2026

    250,000        236,902  

Fixed until 10/27/2027, 3.52% (B), 10/27/2028

    1,195,000        1,122,750  

Fixed until 07/24/2027, 3.67% (B), 07/24/2028

    450,000        428,134  

3.88%, 03/26/2025

    100,000        96,987  

Fixed until 01/24/2038, 3.88% (B), 01/24/2039

    100,000        90,971  

Fixed until 06/01/2023, 4.04% (B), 06/01/2024

    660,000        663,572  

4.13%, 07/25/2028

    48,000        45,955  

4.30%, 11/20/2026

    250,000        243,948  

4.40%, 06/10/2025

    243,000        241,673  

4.75%, 05/18/2046

    490,000        465,953  

5.50%, 09/13/2025

    115,000        122,095  

Fixed until 02/15/2023, 5.90% (B), 02/15/2023 (E)

    730,000        742,775  

Citizens Bank NA
3.70%, 03/29/2023

    970,000        967,789  

Citizens Financial Group, Inc.
2.38%, 07/28/2021

    39,000        37,710  

4.30%, 12/03/2025

    60,000        59,614  

Cleveland Electric Illuminating Co.
3.50%, 04/01/2028 (A)

    277,000        262,692  

5.50%, 08/15/2024

    100,000        109,673  

8.88%, 11/15/2018

    70,000        71,475  

CME Group, Inc.
3.00%, 09/15/2022 - 03/15/2025

    226,000        220,533  

CMS Energy Corp.
2.95%, 02/15/2027

    78,000        71,365  

3.88%, 03/01/2024

    100,000        100,293  

CNA Financial Corp.
3.45%, 08/15/2027

    160,000        148,791  

Columbia Pipeline Group, Inc.
4.50%, 06/01/2025

    400,000        399,082  

Comcast Corp.
2.75%, 03/01/2023

    53,000        50,948  

3.00%, 02/01/2024

    200,000        191,300  

3.20%, 07/15/2036

    970,000        806,991  

3.40%, 07/15/2046

    740,000        600,081  

4.00%, 11/01/2049

    23,000        20,216  

4.20%, 08/15/2034

    378,000        360,964  

4.25%, 01/15/2033

    439,000        428,705  

6.50%, 11/15/2035

    210,000        249,675  

7.05%, 03/15/2033

    90,000        111,838  

Commonwealth Edison Co.
3.65%, 06/15/2046

    81,000        74,678  

3.75%, 08/15/2047

    150,000        140,492  

4.00%, 03/01/2048

    220,000        215,204  

Connecticut Light & Power Co.
3.20%, 03/15/2027

    130,000        124,689  

4.00%, 04/01/2048

    124,000        123,386  

ConocoPhillips Co.
4.95%, 03/15/2026

    150,000        161,667  

Consolidated Edison Co. of New York, Inc.
4.20%, 03/15/2042

    25,000        24,592  

Constellation Brands, Inc.
4.10%, 02/15/2048

    90,000        80,079  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Consumers Energy Co.
2.85%, 05/15/2022

    $   8,000        $   7,884  

3.25%, 08/15/2046

    52,000        45,484  

4.35%, 08/31/2064

    32,000        31,918  

5.65%, 04/15/2020

    110,000        115,147  

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust
4.00%, 04/29/2026

    32,447        32,575  

Costco Wholesale Corp.
2.75%, 05/18/2024

    142,000        137,520  

Cox Communications, Inc.
3.25%, 12/15/2022 (A)

    140,000        135,990  

3.35%, 09/15/2026 (A)

    67,000        61,944  

3.50%, 08/15/2027 (A)

    165,000        153,493  

4.60%, 08/15/2047 (A)

    223,000        203,785  

4.80%, 02/01/2035 (A)

    250,000        230,213  

CRH America Finance, Inc.
3.40%, 05/09/2027 (A)

    200,000        188,247  

Crown Castle International Corp.
3.70%, 06/15/2026

    159,000        149,924  

4.00%, 03/01/2027

    47,000        45,245  

4.88%, 04/15/2022

    100,000        103,091  

5.25%, 01/15/2023

    80,000        83,827  

Crown Castle Towers LLC
3.22%, 05/15/2042 (A)

    104,000        102,040  

CSX Corp.
3.25%, 06/01/2027

    365,000        342,994  

3.40%, 08/01/2024

    100,000        98,259  

3.80%, 11/01/2046

    195,000        172,785  

4.25%, 06/01/2021

    23,000        23,600  

4.75%, 05/30/2042

    27,000        27,486  

6.00%, 10/01/2036, MTN

    70,000        83,186  

CVS Health Corp.
2.75%, 12/01/2022

    80,000        76,674  

2.88%, 06/01/2026

    1,470,000        1,338,090  

4.00%, 12/05/2023

    138,000        138,574  

4.10%, 03/25/2025

    1,038,000        1,032,500  

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    988,000        974,572  

4.78%, 03/25/2038

    410,000        403,264  

5.05%, 03/25/2048

    229,000        233,052  

CVS Pass-Through Trust
4.70%, 01/10/2036 (A)

    218,158        214,057  

5.93%, 01/10/2034 (A)

    211,751        227,767  

6.20%, 10/10/2025 (A)

    93,351        98,368  

Daimler Finance North America LLC
2.25%, 09/03/2019 (A)

    150,000        148,387  

2.38%, 08/01/2018 (A)

    151,000        150,959  

2.88%, 03/10/2021 (A)

    250,000        245,951  

3.35%, 02/22/2023 (A)

    420,000        412,743  

Danaher Corp.
2.40%, 09/15/2020

    56,000        55,332  

Darden Restaurants, Inc.
4.55%, 02/15/2048

    75,000        69,654  

DDR Corp.
3.63%, 02/01/2025

    87,000        82,555  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
6.02%, 06/15/2026 (A)

    1,363,000        1,431,684  

Delmarva Power & Light Co.
4.00%, 06/01/2042

    47,000        45,295  

4.15%, 05/15/2045

    140,000        139,259  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Delta Air Lines Pass-Through Trust
3.63%, 01/30/2029

    $   267,759        $   265,560  

4.75%, 11/07/2021

    17,458        17,760  

Diageo Investment Corp.
8.00%, 09/15/2022

    40,000        47,043  

Digital Realty Trust, LP
3.70%, 08/15/2027

    89,000        84,579  

Discover Bank
3.45%, 07/27/2026

    435,000        403,629  

4.20%, 08/08/2023

    350,000        353,159  

4.25%, 03/13/2026

    250,000        244,370  

Discovery Communications LLC
3.30%, 05/15/2022

    190,000        186,728  

3.95%, 03/20/2028

    105,000        99,437  

4.38%, 06/15/2021

    137,000        140,038  

6.35%, 06/01/2040

    50,000        54,358  

Dollar General Corp.
4.13%, 05/01/2028

    100,000        98,049  

Dominion Energy Gas Holdings LLC
2.80%, 11/15/2020

    59,000        58,293  

4.60%, 12/15/2044

    250,000        246,575  

Dominion Energy, Inc.
2.75%, 01/15/2022

    132,000        128,013  

2.85%, 08/15/2026

    1,232,000        1,115,608  

4.90%, 08/01/2041

    11,000        11,374  

5.25%, 08/01/2033

    90,000        96,044  

6.30%, 03/15/2033

    50,000        58,950  

Dow Chemical Co.
3.00%, 11/15/2022

    38,000        37,006  

5.25%, 11/15/2041

    17,000        17,879  

8.85%, 09/15/2021

    190,000        217,583  

Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Inc.
2.55%, 09/15/2026

    740,000        647,688  

3.43%, 06/15/2027

    75,000        69,295  

DTE Electric Co.
2.65%, 06/15/2022

    13,000        12,665  

3.70%, 03/15/2045

    123,000        115,520  

3.95%, 06/15/2042

    20,000        19,537  

4.05%, 05/15/2048

    275,000        273,092  

Duke Energy Carolinas LLC
3.90%, 06/15/2021

    100,000        101,927  

4.25%, 12/15/2041

    17,000        17,323  

6.00%, 12/01/2028

    100,000        116,413  

Duke Energy Corp.
2.65%, 09/01/2026

    845,000        761,068  

Duke Energy Florida LLC
3.80%, 07/15/2028

    565,000        568,060  

4.20%, 07/15/2048

    210,000        211,601  

Duke Energy Indiana LLC
3.75%, 05/15/2046

    400,000        377,956  

Duke Energy Ohio, Inc.
3.80%, 09/01/2023

    136,000        138,396  

Duke Energy Progress LLC
2.80%, 05/15/2022

    32,000        31,589  

3.00%, 09/15/2021

    67,000        66,981  

3.25%, 08/15/2025

    106,000        103,538  

3.70%, 10/15/2046

    113,000        103,998  

4.15%, 12/01/2044

    65,000        64,148  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Duke Energy Progress LLC (continued)

    

4.20%, 08/15/2045

    $   130,000        $   130,231  

4.38%, 03/30/2044

    44,000        45,563  

5.70%, 04/01/2035

    100,000        115,535  

Duke Realty, LP
3.25%, 06/30/2026

    36,000        33,765  

3.63%, 04/15/2023

    146,000        144,745  

Duquesne Light Holdings, Inc.
3.62%, 08/01/2027 (A)

    160,000        151,642  

DXC Technology Co.
4.25%, 04/15/2024

    99,000        98,892  

E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.
4.15%, 02/15/2043

    44,000        41,297  

5.60%, 12/15/2036

    40,000        46,116  

6.00%, 07/15/2018

    30,000        30,032  

Eaton Corp.
3.10%, 09/15/2027

    340,000        317,805  

4.00%, 11/02/2032

    21,000        20,904  

5.80%, 03/15/2037

    130,000        150,691  

6.95%, 03/20/2019

    60,000        61,721  

Ecolab, Inc.
2.25%, 01/12/2020

    80,000        79,000  

3.25%, 01/14/2023

    66,000        65,171  

Edison International
2.95%, 03/15/2023

    200,000        192,135  

4.13%, 03/15/2028

    155,000        152,614  

Emera US Finance, LP
3.55%, 06/15/2026

    120,000        112,987  

4.75%, 06/15/2046

    134,000        131,668  

Enable Midstream Partners, LP
4.95%, 05/15/2028

    550,000        534,676  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP
3.60%, 02/01/2023

    56,000        54,710  

4.05%, 03/15/2025

    118,000        114,013  

4.75%, 01/15/2026

    96,000        95,184  

4.90%, 02/01/2024

    120,000        121,884  

5.15%, 02/01/2043

    315,000        280,813  

6.05%, 06/01/2041

    325,000        324,575  

6.50%, 02/01/2042

    36,000        37,091  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP / Regency Energy Finance Corp.
5.00%, 10/01/2022

    120,000        124,216  

Eni USA, Inc.
7.30%, 11/15/2027

    150,000        180,763  

Entergy Arkansas, Inc.
3.50%, 04/01/2026

    61,000        60,177  

Entergy Corp.
2.95%, 09/01/2026

    285,000        260,033  

Entergy Louisiana LLC
2.40%, 10/01/2026

    333,000        302,042  

3.05%, 06/01/2031

    107,000        98,384  

Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
2.85%, 06/01/2028

    251,000        230,095  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC
3.35%, 03/15/2023

    204,000        201,003  

3.75%, 02/15/2025

    78,000        77,239  

4.85%, 03/15/2044

    356,000        354,389  

4.90%, 05/15/2046

    210,000        210,412  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC (continued)

    

4.95%, 10/15/2054

    $   35,000        $   34,215  

5.10%, 02/15/2045

    65,000        66,918  

5.75%, 03/01/2035

    100,000        107,666  

5.95%, 02/01/2041

    36,000        40,581  

6.88%, 03/01/2033

    400,000        491,651  

7.55%, 04/15/2038

    120,000        157,015  

EOG Resources, Inc.
2.63%, 03/15/2023

    47,000        45,119  

4.10%, 02/01/2021

    80,000        81,566  

EPR Properties
4.50%, 06/01/2027

    157,000        149,947  

4.95%, 04/15/2028

    395,000        386,454  

EQT Corp.
3.90%, 10/01/2027

    161,000        150,144  

ERAC USA Finance LLC
4.50%, 08/16/2021 - 02/15/2045 (A)

    285,000        281,402  

5.25%, 10/01/2020 (A)

    8,000        8,309  

5.63%, 03/15/2042 (A)

    37,000        40,111  

6.70%, 06/01/2034 (A)

    44,000        52,835  

ERP Operating, LP
2.38%, 07/01/2019

    32,000        31,812  

2.85%, 11/01/2026

    96,000        89,097  

3.00%, 04/15/2023

    150,000        146,380  

3.50%, 03/01/2028

    98,000        94,605  

4.63%, 12/15/2021

    19,000        19,694  

Eversource Energy
3.30%, 01/15/2028

    420,000        399,251  

Exelon Corp.
2.45%, 04/15/2021

    55,000        53,452  

3.40%, 04/15/2026

    298,000        283,032  

3.50%, 06/01/2022

    300,000        296,529  

3.95%, 06/15/2025

    245,000        243,524  

Exelon Generation Co. LLC
3.40%, 03/15/2022

    155,000        153,972  

Express Scripts Holding Co.
3.00%, 07/15/2023

    51,000        48,377  

3.05%, 11/30/2022

    130,000        125,317  

3.50%, 06/15/2024

    90,000        86,382  

4.50%, 02/25/2026

    144,000        142,956  

4.80%, 07/15/2046

    62,000        58,957  

FedEx Corp.
3.90%, 02/01/2035

    223,000        208,542  

4.10%, 02/01/2045

    280,000        252,317  

Fifth Third Bancorp
3.95%, 03/14/2028

    210,000        207,145  

Fifth Third Bank
2.38%, 04/25/2019

    300,000        298,817  

3.85%, 03/15/2026

    440,000        432,758  

FirstEnergy Corp.
4.85%, 07/15/2047

    66,000        67,483  

FirstEnergy Transmission LLC
4.35%, 01/15/2025 (A)

    260,000        261,994  

Florida Power & Light Co.
4.95%, 06/01/2035

    70,000        77,814  

5.13%, 06/01/2041

    30,000        34,181  

5.63%, 04/01/2034

    100,000        116,884  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Fluor Corp.
3.38%, 09/15/2021

    $   149,000        $   148,834  

Ford Motor Co.
4.75%, 01/15/2043

    510,000        440,800  

7.45%, 07/16/2031

    820,000        963,533  

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC
3.34%, 03/18/2021

    250,000        247,758  

3.81%, 01/09/2024

    200,000        194,136  

3.82%, 11/02/2027 (G)

    300,000        278,392  

General Electric Co.
2.10%, 12/11/2019

    86,000        85,055  

2.20%, 01/09/2020, MTN

    172,000        169,941  

2.70%, 10/09/2022

    34,000        32,886  

3.45%, 05/15/2024, MTN

    292,000        286,208  

4.13%, 10/09/2042

    100,000        92,875  

4.38%, 09/16/2020, MTN

    104,000        106,520  

4.65%, 10/17/2021, MTN

    222,000        230,904  

5.50%, 01/08/2020, MTN

    60,000        62,193  

6.00%, 08/07/2019, MTN

    101,000        104,428  

General Mills, Inc.
4.00%, 04/17/2025

    185,000        182,194  

4.20%, 04/17/2028

    115,000        112,282  

4.55%, 04/17/2038

    45,000        42,941  

General Motors Co.
5.00%, 04/01/2035

    435,000        411,968  

5.20%, 04/01/2045

    335,000        307,536  

6.60%, 04/01/2036

    540,000        584,457  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.
3.45%, 04/10/2022

    145,000        142,480  

3.50%, 11/07/2024

    240,000        228,527  

3.70%, 05/09/2023

    205,000        201,116  

3.95%, 04/13/2024

    360,000        352,298  

4.30%, 07/13/2025

    105,000        103,012  

4.35%, 04/09/2025

    235,000        231,629  

Georgia Power Co.
3.25%, 04/01/2026

    49,000        46,789  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.
3.25%, 09/01/2022

    120,000        119,308  

3.50%, 02/01/2025

    20,000        19,698  

3.70%, 04/01/2024

    484,000        484,925  

4.00%, 09/01/2036

    353,000        339,663  

4.15%, 03/01/2047

    180,000        172,058  

4.60%, 09/01/2035

    42,000        43,226  

GlaxoSmithKline Capital, Inc.
3.63%, 05/15/2025

    740,000        738,726  

Glencore Funding LLC
4.00%, 03/27/2027 (A)

    250,000        235,981  

4.63%, 04/29/2024 (A)

    220,000        221,191  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
2.35%, 11/15/2021

    420,000        403,910  

2.75%, 09/15/2020

    117,000        115,605  

Fixed until 10/31/2021, 2.88% (B), 10/31/2022

    750,000        732,165  

Fixed until 07/24/2022, 2.91% (B), 07/24/2023

    1,040,000        1,001,696  

Fixed until 06/05/2022, 2.91% (B), 06/05/2023

    1,326,000        1,279,687  

3.00%, 04/26/2022

    250,000        244,225  

Fixed until 09/29/2024, 3.27% (B), 09/29/2025

    484,000        459,569  

3.50%, 01/23/2025 - 11/16/2026

    1,627,000        1,550,395  

Fixed until 06/05/2027, 3.69% (B), 06/05/2028

    523,000        495,795  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (continued)

    

3.75%, 05/22/2025

    $   399,000        $   389,011  

Fixed until 04/23/2028, 3.81% (B), 04/23/2029

    410,000        389,966  

3.85%, 01/26/2027

    1,110,000        1,065,964  

Fixed until 10/31/2037, 4.02% (B), 10/31/2038

    55,000        50,113  

Fixed until 05/01/2028, 4.22% (B), 05/01/2029

    590,000        581,097  

Fixed until 11/10/2022, 5.00% (B), 11/10/2022 (E)

    705,000        661,360  

5.38%, 03/15/2020, MTN

    606,000        627,657  

Goodman US Finance Three LLC
3.70%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    561,000        529,190  

Government Properties Income Trust
3.75%, 08/15/2019

    940,000        941,177  

4.00%, 07/15/2022

    251,000        248,031  

Great Plains Energy, Inc.
4.85%, 06/01/2021

    74,000        75,964  

Great-West Lifeco Finance Delaware, LP
4.15%, 06/03/2047 (A)

    200,000        187,856  

GTP Acquisition Partners I LLC
2.35%, 06/15/2045 (A)

    39,000        38,266  

3.48%, 06/15/2050 (A)

    36,000        35,114  

Guardian Life Insurance Co. of America
4.85%, 01/24/2077 (A)

    44,000        42,892  

Gulf Power Co.
3.30%, 05/30/2027

    235,000        226,179  

Halliburton Co.
3.50%, 08/01/2023

    107,000        106,539  

4.85%, 11/15/2035

    397,000        410,523  

7.60%, 08/15/2096 (A)

    40,000        50,206  

8.75%, 02/15/2021

    100,000        113,098  

Harris Corp.
3.83%, 04/27/2025

    450,000        441,238  

4.40%, 06/15/2028

    365,000        367,853  

4.85%, 04/27/2035

    70,000        71,433  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
4.30%, 04/15/2043

    210,000        197,894  

Hasbro, Inc.
3.50%, 09/15/2027

    144,000        133,209  

HCP, Inc.
3.40%, 02/01/2025

    38,000        35,929  

3.88%, 08/15/2024

    497,000        486,053  

4.20%, 03/01/2024

    127,000        126,916  

Hess Corp.
6.00%, 01/15/2040

    50,000        51,514  

Home Depot, Inc.
2.13%, 09/15/2026

    1,102,000        982,895  

2.63%, 06/01/2022

    150,000        147,118  

3.75%, 02/15/2024

    110,000        112,379  

4.20%, 04/01/2043

    103,000        103,338  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.
2.30%, 01/14/2022

    271,000        260,245  

Hyundai Capital America
2.00%, 07/01/2019 (A)

    64,000        63,167  

2.40%, 10/30/2018 (A)

    120,000        119,823  

IBM Credit LLC
3.00%, 02/06/2023 (G)

    765,000        748,087  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.
3.50%, 03/01/2024

    100,000        101,468  

4.88%, 09/15/2041

    192,000        215,433  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Indiana Michigan Power Co.
3.20%, 03/15/2023

    $   120,000        $   118,091  

3.85%, 05/15/2028

    445,000        446,146  

Intel Corp.
2.60%, 05/19/2026

    585,000        545,481  

3.70%, 07/29/2025

    104,000        104,680  

3.73%, 12/08/2047

    114,000        107,404  

4.00%, 12/15/2032

    181,000        185,784  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.
2.50%, 10/15/2018

    147,000        147,015  

4.00%, 10/15/2023

    115,000        117,467  

International Business Machines Corp.
1.80%, 05/17/2019

    100,000        99,336  

2.25%, 02/19/2021

    279,000        272,989  

7.00%, 10/30/2025

    50,000        59,646  

International Lease Finance Corp.
5.88%, 08/15/2022

    150,000        159,076  

8.63%, 01/15/2022

    360,000        413,015  

International Paper Co.
3.00%, 02/15/2027

    150,000        135,781  

4.35%, 08/15/2048

    200,000        179,407  

7.30%, 11/15/2039

    100,000        127,917  

8.70%, 06/15/2038

    70,000        97,669  

ITC Holdings Corp.
2.70%, 11/15/2022

    200,000        192,606  

3.35%, 11/15/2027

    485,000        454,845  

Jackson National Life Global Funding
1.88%, 10/15/2018 (A)

    113,000        112,806  

2.50%, 06/27/2022 (A)

    100,000        96,403  

3.05%, 04/29/2026 (A)

    81,000        76,701  

3.25%, 01/30/2024 (A)

    29,000        28,430  

3.30%, 06/11/2021 (A)

    290,000        289,660  

3.88%, 06/11/2025 (A)

    330,000        330,006  

Jersey Central Power & Light Co.
4.30%, 01/15/2026 (A)

    320,000        323,773  

6.15%, 06/01/2037

    80,000        95,290  

John Deere Capital Corp.
1.60%, 07/13/2018, MTN (G)

    179,000        178,956  

1.70%, 01/15/2020

    30,000        29,493  

2.45%, 09/11/2020, MTN

    33,000        32,533  

2.70%, 01/06/2023, MTN

    15,000        14,638  

2.75%, 03/15/2022, MTN

    25,000        24,555  

2.80%, 09/08/2027, MTN

    100,000        93,350  

3.15%, 10/15/2021, MTN

    20,000        20,043  

3.35%, 06/12/2024, MTN

    166,000        164,715  

John Sevier Combined Cycle Generation LLC
4.63%, 01/15/2042

    71,316        74,274  

Johnson & Johnson
3.40%, 01/15/2038

    278,000        262,569  

Kansas City Power & Light Co.
3.15%, 03/15/2023

    47,000        45,888  

5.30%, 10/01/2041

    60,000        67,633  

Kellogg Co.
3.40%, 11/15/2027

    119,000        111,234  

Kerr-McGee Corp.
7.88%, 09/15/2031

    100,000        126,814  

KeyBank NA
3.40%, 05/20/2026, MTN (G)

    405,000        385,496  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

KeyCorp
2.90%, 09/15/2020, MTN

    $   84,000        $   83,326  

5.10%, 03/24/2021, MTN

    141,000        147,216  

KeySpan Gas East Corp.
2.74%, 08/15/2026 (A)

    97,000        89,768  

Kimberly-Clark Corp.
2.40%, 03/01/2022 (G)

    14,000        13,606  

2.40%, 06/01/2023

    100,000        96,026  

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, LP
5.00%, 03/01/2043

    180,000        166,954  

5.63%, 09/01/2041

    230,000        229,096  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.
4.30%, 03/01/2028

    410,000        398,311  

5.30%, 12/01/2034

    170,000        168,367  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.
2.80%, 07/02/2020

    350,000        347,494  

3.00%, 06/01/2026

    150,000        135,079  

4.38%, 06/01/2046

    370,000        320,088  

5.00%, 07/15/2035 - 06/04/2042

    315,000        309,854  

5.20%, 07/15/2045

    44,000        42,804  

6.13%, 08/23/2018

    65,000        65,331  

6.88%, 01/26/2039

    75,000        88,429  

Kroger Co.
3.40%, 04/15/2022

    95,000        94,346  

3.88%, 10/15/2046

    375,000        310,812  

6.15%, 01/15/2020

    30,000        31,338  

8.00%, 09/15/2029

    125,000        156,782  

L3 Technologies, Inc.
4.40%, 06/15/2028

    630,000        627,067  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
3.20%, 02/01/2022

    138,000        136,514  

Legg Mason, Inc.
3.95%, 07/15/2024

    115,000        113,949  

Liberty Mutual Group, Inc.
4.95%, 05/01/2022 (A)

    100,000        103,836  

Liberty Mutual Insurance Co.
8.50%, 05/15/2025 (A)

    220,000        271,659  

Liberty Property, LP
3.25%, 10/01/2026

    54,000        50,287  

Lincoln National Corp.
3.80%, 03/01/2028

    570,000        544,650  

4.00%, 09/01/2023

    100,000        100,821  

4.20%, 03/15/2022

    206,000        211,108  

Lockheed Martin Corp.
4.50%, 05/15/2036

    150,000        155,678  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.
2.50%, 04/15/2026

    150,000        137,213  

3.13%, 09/15/2024

    50,000        48,794  

3.38%, 09/15/2025

    179,000        175,277  

3.70%, 04/15/2046

    220,000        196,151  

4.65%, 04/15/2042

    43,000        44,857  

Macy’s Retail Holdings, Inc.
4.30%, 02/15/2043

    50,000        38,905  

Magellan Health, Inc.
4.40%, 09/22/2024

    375,000        366,984  

Magellan Midstream Partners, LP
3.20%, 03/15/2025

    59,000        56,821  

4.20%, 12/01/2042

    75,000        67,377  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Magellan Midstream Partners, LP (continued)

    

4.25%, 02/01/2021

    $   234,000        $   238,666  

5.15%, 10/15/2043

    62,000        64,813  

Maple Escrow Subsidiary, Inc.
4.42%, 05/25/2025 (A)

    112,000        112,559  

4.99%, 05/25/2038 (A)

    162,000        163,030  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.
3.63%, 09/15/2024

    96,000        93,757  

4.75%, 09/15/2044

    90,000        85,627  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.
2.35%, 03/06/2020

    191,000        188,358  

2.75%, 01/30/2022

    19,000        18,573  

3.30%, 03/14/2023

    25,000        24,712  

3.50%, 03/10/2025

    93,000        90,949  

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
3.45%, 06/01/2027

    156,000        145,128  

4.25%, 12/15/2047

    180,000        155,998  

Masco Corp.
3.50%, 11/15/2027

    115,000        105,860  

4.50%, 05/15/2047

    165,000        144,430  

6.50%, 08/15/2032

    250,000        279,203  

Massachusetts Electric Co.
4.00%, 08/15/2046 (A)

    113,000        107,875  

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co.
5.38%, 12/01/2041 (A)

    33,000        38,000  

7.63%, 11/15/2023 (A)

    250,000        286,762  

MassMutual Global Funding II
2.10%, 08/02/2018 (A)

    112,000        111,971  

2.50%, 10/17/2022 (A) (G)

    100,000        96,658  

McCormick & Co., Inc.
3.15%, 08/15/2024

    375,000        358,404  

3.40%, 08/15/2027

    66,000        62,400  

McDonald’s Corp.
3.63%, 05/01/2043, MTN

    105,000        91,873  

4.60%, 05/26/2045, MTN

    205,000        206,663  

4.70%, 12/09/2035, MTN

    39,000        40,642  

6.30%, 10/15/2037, MTN

    71,000        86,927  

Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.
4.13%, 11/15/2025

    238,000        242,464  

4.60%, 06/01/2044 (G)

    70,000        72,982  

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.
4.13%, 09/15/2020

    90,000        91,201  

Medtronic, Inc.
3.13%, 03/15/2022

    72,000        71,456  

3.50%, 03/15/2025

    605,000        598,657  

4.38%, 03/15/2035

    159,000        164,438  

Merck & Co., Inc.
2.80%, 05/18/2023

    18,000        17,614  

3.70%, 02/10/2045

    20,000        19,014  

MetLife, Inc.
4.13%, 08/13/2042

    285,000        269,187  

6.40%, 12/15/2066

    60,000        63,600  

Metropolitan Edison Co.
4.00%, 04/15/2025 (A)

    85,000        84,843  

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I
3.00%, 01/10/2023 - 09/19/2027 (A)

    320,000        306,650  

3.88%, 04/11/2022 (A)

    300,000        304,435  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Microsoft Corp.
2.38%, 02/12/2022 - 05/01/2023

    $   176,000        $   170,918  

2.40%, 08/08/2026

    870,000        804,790  

2.88%, 02/06/2024

    458,000        448,383  

3.30%, 02/06/2027

    167,000        164,442  

3.50%, 02/12/2035

    828,000        802,328  

3.70%, 08/08/2046

    90,000        87,524  

3.95%, 08/08/2056

    88,000        86,025  

4.00%, 02/12/2055

    71,000        70,439  

4.10%, 02/06/2037

    266,000        277,139  

4.50%, 02/06/2057

    233,000        252,929  

MidAmerican Energy Co.
3.10%, 05/01/2027

    193,000        185,734  

Monsanto Co.
4.70%, 07/15/2064

    18,000        15,778  

Morgan Stanley
2.65%, 01/27/2020

    344,000        341,502  

2.75%, 05/19/2022

    150,000        145,313  

Fixed until 07/22/2027, 3.59% (B), 07/22/2028

    1,646,000        1,564,436  

3.63%, 01/20/2027

    405,000        388,892  

3.70%, 10/23/2024, MTN

    167,000        164,870  

Fixed until 04/24/2023, 3.74% (B), 04/24/2024

    1,490,000        1,481,060  

3.75%, 02/25/2023, MTN

    284,000        284,322  

Fixed until 01/24/2028, 3.77% (B), 01/24/2029, MTN

    1,055,000        1,016,312  

3.88%, 01/27/2026, MTN

    360,000        354,368  

Fixed until 07/22/2037, 3.97% (B), 07/22/2038

    330,000        305,770  

4.00%, 07/23/2025, MTN

    871,000        868,351  

4.30%, 01/27/2045

    69,000        65,285  

5.00%, 11/24/2025

    334,000        346,233  

5.50%, 07/28/2021, MTN

    620,000        656,074  

5.63%, 09/23/2019, MTN

    470,000        484,314  

7.30%, 05/13/2019, MTN

    470,000        487,163  

Mosaic Co.
4.05%, 11/15/2027

    449,000        429,082  

4.88%, 11/15/2041

    13,000        11,805  

5.45%, 11/15/2033

    255,000        257,810  

5.63%, 11/15/2043

    240,000        241,755  

MPLX, LP
4.00%, 03/15/2028

    104,000        98,912  

4.13%, 03/01/2027

    290,000        276,632  

4.50%, 04/15/2038

    70,000        64,655  

4.70%, 04/15/2048

    80,000        74,176  

4.88%, 12/01/2024

    165,000        170,109  

5.20%, 03/01/2047

    81,000        80,484  

MUFG Americas Holdings Corp.
2.25%, 02/10/2020

    11,000        10,836  

MUFG Union Bank NA
2.25%, 05/06/2019

    250,000        248,650  

Mylan, Inc.
4.55%, 04/15/2028 (A)

    235,000        229,655  

5.40%, 11/29/2043

    40,000        39,555  

National Retail Properties, Inc.
3.50%, 10/15/2027

    100,000        93,325  

3.60%, 12/15/2026

    124,000        117,384  

National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corp.
2.70%, 02/15/2023

    405,000        393,115  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corp. (continued)

 

2.85%, 01/27/2025

    $   235,000        $   224,637  

2.95%, 02/07/2024

    61,000        58,918  

3.05%, 04/25/2027

    92,000        87,204  

3.40%, 02/07/2028 (G)

    210,000        203,883  

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co.
8.25%, 12/01/2031 (A)

    250,000        343,209  

9.38%, 08/15/2039 (A)

    80,000        125,265  

NBCUniversal Media LLC
4.38%, 04/01/2021

    150,000        153,889  

Nevada Power Co.
5.38%, 09/15/2040

    80,000        93,306  

5.45%, 05/15/2041

    40,000        45,809  

6.50%, 08/01/2018

    25,000        25,072  

6.65%, 04/01/2036

    100,000        130,384  

7.13%, 03/15/2019

    50,000        51,544  

New England Power Co.
3.80%, 12/05/2047 (A)

    112,000        107,162  

New York Life Global Funding
1.55%, 11/02/2018 (A)

    286,000        285,103  

2.35%, 07/14/2026 (A)

    75,000        68,209  

3.00%, 01/10/2028 (A)

    137,000        128,507  

New York State Electric & Gas Corp.
3.25%, 12/01/2026 (A)

    83,000        79,638  

Newell Brands, Inc.
4.20%, 04/01/2026

    275,000        265,665  

NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc.
2.40%, 09/15/2019

    106,000        105,170  

3.55%, 05/01/2027

    45,000        43,255  

Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.
3.51%, 10/01/2024 (A)

    141,000        140,960  

NiSource, Inc.
3.49%, 05/15/2027

    590,000        564,163  

3.85%, 02/15/2023

    50,000        50,330  

5.65%, 02/01/2045

    89,000        101,612  

5.80%, 02/01/2042

    67,000        77,075  

6.25%, 12/15/2040

    100,000        118,526  

Nissan Motor Acceptance Corp.
1.90%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    78,000        74,230  

Noble Energy, Inc.
3.85%, 01/15/2028

    170,000        162,459  

5.25%, 11/15/2043

    155,000        157,697  

6.00%, 03/01/2041

    57,000        62,693  

Nordstrom, Inc.
4.00%, 10/15/2021

    21,000        21,167  

Norfolk Southern Corp.
3.25%, 12/01/2021

    11,000        10,977  

3.85%, 01/15/2024

    125,000        126,360  

3.95%, 10/01/2042

    25,000        23,252  

4.05%, 08/15/2052

    127,000        115,821  

4.15%, 02/28/2048

    200,000        192,388  

Northern States Power Co.
6.25%, 06/01/2036

    70,000        87,053  

Northern Trust Corp.
Fixed until 05/08/2027, 3.38% (B), 05/08/2032

    280,000        263,037  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
3.20%, 02/01/2027

    $   112,000        $   105,547  

3.25%, 01/15/2028

    490,000        460,337  

3.85%, 04/15/2045

    44,000        39,919  

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp.
7.75%, 02/15/2031

    80,000        107,107  

Northwest Airlines Pass-Through Trust
7.03%, 05/01/2021

    141,534        147,833  

Novartis Capital Corp.
2.40%, 09/21/2022

    80,000        77,605  

3.40%, 05/06/2024

    165,000        164,602  

Nucor Corp.
6.40%, 12/01/2037

    200,000        251,598  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc.
3.60%, 09/01/2027

    142,000        134,166  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.
4.63%, 06/15/2045

    26,000        27,189  

Ohio Power Co.
6.60%, 03/01/2033

    65,000        83,133  

Oncor Electric Delivery Co. LLC
2.95%, 04/01/2025

    45,000        43,173  

6.80%, 09/01/2018

    50,000        50,314  

7.00%, 09/01/2022

    50,000        56,960  

OneBeacon US Holdings, Inc.
4.60%, 11/09/2022

    250,000        252,210  

ONEOK Partners, LP
3.20%, 09/15/2018

    105,000        105,062  

3.38%, 10/01/2022

    30,000        29,593  

4.90%, 03/15/2025

    1,030,000        1,063,495  

5.00%, 09/15/2023

    65,000        67,530  

6.65%, 10/01/2036

    220,000        256,342  

ONEOK, Inc.
4.55%, 07/15/2028 (J)

    125,000        126,099  

Oracle Corp.
2.38%, 01/15/2019

    91,000        90,989  

2.50%, 05/15/2022 - 10/15/2022

    341,000        331,177  

2.65%, 07/15/2026

    1,395,000        1,286,515  

2.95%, 11/15/2024 - 05/15/2025

    600,000        574,687  

3.80%, 11/15/2037

    160,000        151,346  

3.90%, 05/15/2035

    130,000        126,039  

4.00%, 11/15/2047

    405,000        381,215  

4.30%, 07/08/2034

    573,000        584,097  

6.13%, 07/08/2039

    65,000        79,735  

Owens Corning
4.30%, 07/15/2047

    235,000        193,399  

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
2.45%, 08/15/2022

    45,000        41,740  

2.95%, 03/01/2026

    340,000        303,280  

3.25%, 09/15/2021

    11,000        10,713  

3.30%, 12/01/2027

    100,000        89,794  

3.40%, 08/15/2024

    130,000        121,512  

3.50%, 06/15/2025

    554,000        516,827  

3.95%, 12/01/2047

    100,000        85,545  

4.45%, 04/15/2042

    17,000        15,405  

4.50%, 12/15/2041

    48,000        43,133  

6.05%, 03/01/2034 (G)

    170,000        183,578  

Pacific Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 10/24/2047, 4.30% (B), 10/24/2067 (A)

    124,000        112,585  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

PacifiCorp
6.25%, 10/15/2037

    $   20,000        $   25,504  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.
3.30%, 11/21/2024, MTN

    37,000        36,424  

4.10%, 03/01/2047

    67,000        65,955  

4.45%, 11/21/2044, MTN

    37,000        38,613  

Pennsylvania Electric Co.
3.25%, 03/15/2028 (A)

    56,000        52,213  

Penske Truck Leasing Co., LP / PTL Finance Corp.
2.50%, 06/15/2019 (A)

    26,000        25,856  

2.70%, 03/14/2023 (A)

    150,000        142,448  

3.38%, 02/01/2022 (A)

    184,000        181,360  

4.88%, 07/11/2022 (A)

    100,000        103,976  

PepsiCo, Inc.
3.45%, 10/06/2046

    290,000        260,076  

4.60%, 07/17/2045

    39,000        42,249  

4.88%, 11/01/2040

    17,000        18,916  

Pfizer, Inc.
3.00%, 12/15/2026

    210,000        202,525  

Philip Morris International, Inc.
2.13%, 05/10/2023

    1,220,000        1,143,447  

2.75%, 02/25/2026 (G)

    225,000        209,001  

4.25%, 11/10/2044

    100,000        94,746  

Phillips 66
3.90%, 03/15/2028

    365,000        356,233  

4.30%, 04/01/2022

    16,000        16,479  

4.88%, 11/15/2044

    320,000        330,558  

Phillips 66 Partners, LP
3.55%, 10/01/2026

    34,000        31,794  

4.90%, 10/01/2046

    209,000        200,329  

Plains All American Pipeline, LP / PAA Finance Corp.
3.60%, 11/01/2024

    175,000        165,733  

4.30%, 01/31/2043

    121,000        99,956  

4.65%, 10/15/2025

    100,000        99,653  

5.75%, 01/15/2020

    700,000        722,545  

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.
5.13%, 02/08/2020

    100,000        103,195  

PPL Capital Funding, Inc.
3.10%, 05/15/2026

    635,000        589,474  

4.20%, 06/15/2022

    50,000        50,768  

PPL Electric Utilities Corp.
4.13%, 06/15/2044

    42,000        41,911  

Praxair, Inc.
2.65%, 02/05/2025

    65,000        61,595  

Precision Castparts Corp.
3.25%, 06/15/2025

    160,000        155,706  

4.20%, 06/15/2035

    160,000        162,421  

President & Fellows of Harvard College
3.30%, 07/15/2056

    214,000        194,862  

Principal Life Global Funding II
2.25%, 10/15/2018 (A)

    127,000        126,905  

Private Export Funding Corp.
2.80%, 05/15/2022

    400,000        398,968  

3.55%, 01/15/2024

    1,505,000        1,545,928  

Procter & Gamble Co.
2.70%, 02/02/2026

    250,000        237,394  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    23


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Progress Energy, Inc.
3.15%, 04/01/2022

    $   22,000        $   21,703  

7.00%, 10/30/2031

    110,000        140,340  

Progressive Corp.
Fixed until 03/15/2023, 5.38% (B), 03/15/2023 (E)

    150,000        149,250  

Protective Life Global Funding
2.00%, 09/14/2021 (A)

    210,000        201,038  

2.26%, 04/08/2020 (A)

    200,000        196,821  

Providence St. Joseph Health Obligated Group
2.75%, 10/01/2026

    84,000        78,399  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    

2.35%, 08/15/2019, MTN

    200,000        197,614  

3.91%, 12/07/2047

    414,000        372,404  

Fixed until 06/15/2023, 5.63% (B), 06/15/2043

    100,000        103,125  

Prudential Insurance Co. of America
8.30%, 07/01/2025 (A)

    300,000        373,919  

PSEG Power LLC

    

2.45%, 11/15/2018

    50,000        49,945  

3.85%, 06/01/2023

    330,000        328,487  

4.15%, 09/15/2021

    113,000        115,179  

Public Service Co. of Colorado
3.55%, 06/15/2046

    43,000        39,001  

Public Service Co. of New Hampshire
3.50%, 11/01/2023

    40,000        39,994  

Public Service Co. of Oklahoma

    

5.15%, 12/01/2019

    110,000        112,911  

6.63%, 11/15/2037

    80,000        102,389  

Public Service Electric & Gas Co.

    

2.25%, 09/15/2026, MTN

    93,000        84,023  

3.65%, 09/01/2042, MTN

    49,000        46,915  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

    

2.60%, 01/30/2023

    21,000        20,081  

2.90%, 05/20/2024

    610,000        576,422  

3.25%, 05/20/2027

    201,000        187,032  

Quest Diagnostics, Inc.

    

3.45%, 06/01/2026

    39,000        37,090  

4.75%, 01/30/2020

    160,000        163,777  

Qwest Corp.
6.75%, 12/01/2021

    67,000        71,295  

Realty Income Corp.

    

3.88%, 04/15/2025

    175,000        172,539  

4.65%, 03/15/2047

    113,000        113,885  

Regions Financial Corp.
2.75%, 08/14/2022

    170,000        163,938  

Reliance Standard Life Global Funding II
3.05%, 01/20/2021 (A)

    104,000        102,793  

Republic Services, Inc.

    

2.90%, 07/01/2026

    49,000        45,503  

3.55%, 06/01/2022

    54,000        54,345  

5.25%, 11/15/2021

    80,000        84,387  

5.50%, 09/15/2019

    100,000        102,983  

Reynolds American, Inc.

    

4.45%, 06/12/2025

    611,000        614,912  

5.70%, 08/15/2035

    150,000        161,046  

Rockwell Collins, Inc.

    

3.20%, 03/15/2024

    80,000        77,070  

3.50%, 03/15/2027

    410,000        389,665  

4.35%, 04/15/2047

    50,000        47,754  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Roper Technologies, Inc.

    

3.00%, 12/15/2020

    $   46,000        $   45,669  

3.80%, 12/15/2026

    92,000        89,223  

Ryder System, Inc.
2.88%, 09/01/2020, MTN

    144,000        142,420  

San Diego Gas & Electric Co.

    

3.95%, 11/15/2041

    33,000        32,372  

6.00%, 06/01/2026

    75,000        84,943  

Schlumberger Holdings Corp.

    

3.63%, 12/21/2022 (A)

    154,000        154,015  

4.00%, 12/21/2025 (A)

    667,000        664,773  

Select Income REIT
3.60%, 02/01/2020

    370,000        368,030  

Sempra Energy

    

2.40%, 03/15/2020

    250,000        246,529  

2.88%, 10/01/2022

    28,000        27,130  

3.25%, 06/15/2027

    200,000        186,349  

3.40%, 02/01/2028

    165,000        154,799  

3.55%, 06/15/2024

    118,000        115,564  

4.00%, 02/01/2048

    35,000        31,457  

4.05%, 12/01/2023

    96,000        97,214  

9.80%, 02/15/2019

    140,000        145,675  

Senior Housing Properties Trust

    

3.25%, 05/01/2019

    190,000        189,866  

4.75%, 02/15/2028

    150,000        144,918  

SES GLOBAL Americas Holdings GP
5.30%, 03/25/2044 (A)

    165,000        141,627  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    

3.13%, 06/01/2024

    82,000        78,321  

4.50%, 06/01/2047

    80,000        76,353  

Sierra Pacific Power Co.
2.60%, 05/01/2026

    1,100,000        1,016,179  

Simon Property Group, LP

    

3.75%, 02/01/2024

    250,000        249,172  

4.13%, 12/01/2021

    27,000        27,603  

4.38%, 03/01/2021

    60,000        61,786  

South Carolina Electric & Gas Co.

    

5.30%, 05/15/2033

    150,000        159,360  

6.05%, 01/15/2038

    237,000        268,988  

Southern California Edison Co.

    

1.85%, 02/01/2022

    44,000        42,914  

3.40%, 06/01/2023

    365,000        363,685  

3.65%, 03/01/2028

    150,000        146,510  

3.88%, 06/01/2021

    18,000        18,287  

3.90%, 12/01/2041

    50,000        46,339  

4.05%, 03/15/2042

    75,000        70,392  

4.13%, 03/01/2048

    490,000        463,604  

Southern California Gas Co.
4.13%, 06/01/2048

    240,000        240,485  

Southern Co.

    

2.15%, 09/01/2019

    100,000        99,127  

3.25%, 07/01/2026

    48,000        45,056  

Southern Co. Gas Capital Corp.

    

2.45%, 10/01/2023

    48,000        45,135  

3.25%, 06/15/2026

    323,000        306,549  

3.50%, 09/15/2021

    182,000        182,031  

3.95%, 10/01/2046

    49,000        45,060  

4.40%, 06/01/2043

    79,000        77,404  

5.25%, 08/15/2019

    230,000        235,228  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Southern Natural Gas Co. LLC

    

4.80%, 03/15/2047 (A)

    $   77,000        $   79,967  

8.00%, 03/01/2032

    140,000        181,027  

Southern Power Co.

    

4.95%, 12/15/2046

    119,000        119,667  

5.15%, 09/15/2041

    165,000        167,706  

Southwest Gas Corp.
3.80%, 09/29/2046

    100,000        94,494  

Southwestern Electric Power Co.

    

3.90%, 04/01/2045

    125,000        117,990  

6.45%, 01/15/2019

    50,000        50,973  

Southwestern Public Service Co.

    

3.70%, 08/15/2047

    330,000        303,836  

4.50%, 08/15/2041

    70,000        72,776  

6.00%, 10/01/2036

    97,000        116,232  

Spectra Energy Partners, LP

    

2.95%, 09/25/2018

    46,000        46,011  

3.50%, 03/15/2025

    125,000        119,216  

Spirit Airlines Pass-Through Trust
3.38%, 08/15/2031

    176,000        172,307  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC
3.36%, 03/20/2023 (A)

    437,938        433,011  

Starbucks Corp.
4.30%, 06/15/2045

    105,000        99,927  

State Street Corp.

    

Fixed until 05/15/2022, 2.65% (B), 05/15/2023

    284,000        276,099  

3.10%, 05/15/2023

    72,000        71,000  

3.55%, 08/18/2025

    118,000        117,942  

3.70%, 11/20/2023

    231,000        234,234  

Stryker Corp.
3.50%, 03/15/2026

    39,000        37,864  

Sunoco Logistics Partners Operations, LP

    

4.25%, 04/01/2024

    36,000        35,659  

4.95%, 01/15/2043

    309,000        268,771  

5.30%, 04/01/2044

    50,000        45,322  

5.35%, 05/15/2045

    503,000        457,892  

6.10%, 02/15/2042

    100,000        100,425  

SunTrust Bank
3.30%, 05/15/2026

    535,000        505,064  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    

2.50%, 05/01/2019

    39,000        38,915  

4.00%, 05/01/2025

    53,000        53,253  

Synchrony Financial

    

3.70%, 08/04/2026

    170,000        156,172  

3.95%, 12/01/2027

    449,000        414,206  

Sysco Corp.

    

3.25%, 07/15/2027

    350,000        327,811  

3.75%, 10/01/2025

    78,000        76,964  

SYSCO Corp.
4.45%, 03/15/2048

    190,000        183,661  

Target Corp.

    

3.50%, 07/01/2024

    77,000        77,314  

3.63%, 04/15/2046

    170,000        151,454  

TC PipeLines, LP
3.90%, 05/25/2027

    81,000        76,158  

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.
2.95%, 04/01/2022

    112,000        110,043  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Teachers Insurance & Annuity Association of America
4.27%, 05/15/2047 (A)

    $   200,000        $   191,266  

Texas Eastern Transmission, LP
2.80%, 10/15/2022 (A)

    129,000        123,338  

Texas Health Resources
4.33%, 11/15/2055

    250,000        257,313  

Texas Instruments, Inc.
1.65%, 08/03/2019

    37,000        36,547  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    

2.95%, 09/19/2026

    288,000        266,060  

4.15%, 02/01/2024

    86,000        87,289  

Time Warner Cable LLC

    

5.00%, 02/01/2020

    5,000        5,104  

6.55%, 05/01/2037

    100,000        106,086  

8.75%, 02/14/2019

    105,000        108,504  

Time Warner Entertainment Co., LP
8.38%, 07/15/2033

    330,000        407,429  

Toledo Edison Co.
6.15%, 05/15/2037

    130,000        158,486  

Toyota Motor Credit Corp.

    

2.10%, 01/17/2019, MTN

    174,000        173,596  

2.13%, 07/18/2019, MTN

    90,000        89,452  

Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association, Inc.
4.25%, 06/01/2046

    68,000        64,174  

Tyson Foods, Inc.

    

3.95%, 08/15/2024

    340,000        339,318  

4.55%, 06/02/2047

    125,000        119,707  

UDR, Inc.
2.95%, 09/01/2026, MTN

    74,000        67,848  

Unilever Capital Corp.

    

2.00%, 07/28/2026

    125,000        110,906  

3.38%, 03/22/2025

    110,000        109,299  

Union Carbide Corp.

    

7.50%, 06/01/2025

    40,000        46,922  

7.75%, 10/01/2096

    40,000        51,260  

Union Electric Co.

    

2.95%, 06/15/2027

    107,000        100,829  

4.00%, 04/01/2048

    275,000        269,687  

Union Pacific Corp.

    

4.10%, 09/15/2067

    90,000        78,963  

4.38%, 09/10/2038

    275,000        278,072  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

2.88%, 04/07/2030

    438,106        405,511  

3.10%, 01/07/2030

    82,757        78,350  

3.45%, 01/07/2030

    368,028        355,097  

3.50%, 09/01/2031

    479,000        465,095  

3.65%, 07/07/2027

    98,000        95,384  

3.75%, 03/03/2028

    300,053        297,895  

4.30%, 02/15/2027

    220,917        225,137  

United Parcel Service, Inc.
2.45%, 10/01/2022

    29,000        28,100  

United Technologies Corp.

    

3.75%, 11/01/2046

    555,000        485,887  

4.15%, 05/15/2045

    198,000        183,908  

4.50%, 06/01/2042

    71,000        70,163  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    

1.63%, 03/15/2019

    $   73,000        $   72,466  

2.75%, 02/15/2023

    111,000        107,455  

2.88%, 03/15/2023

    150,000        146,175  

3.10%, 03/15/2026

    80,000        76,347  

3.38%, 11/15/2021

    37,000        37,201  

3.95%, 10/15/2042

    180,000        170,586  

4.25%, 06/15/2048

    250,000        250,693  

4.63%, 07/15/2035

    143,000        150,397  

US Bancorp

    

2.20%, 04/25/2019, MTN

    200,000        199,232  

2.38%, 07/22/2026, MTN

    100,000        90,987  

2.63%, 01/24/2022, MTN

    37,000        36,201  

3.00%, 03/15/2022, MTN

    33,000        32,643  

US Bank NA
2.13%, 10/28/2019

    250,000        247,705  

Valero Energy Corp.
7.50%, 04/15/2032

    60,000        76,744  

Ventas Realty, LP

    

3.50%, 02/01/2025

    45,000        43,089  

3.75%, 05/01/2024

    88,000        86,583  

3.85%, 04/01/2027

    563,000        540,269  

4.13%, 01/15/2026

    68,000        66,905  

VEREIT Operating Partnership, LP
4.60%, 02/06/2024

    597,000        597,221  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

2.63%, 08/15/2026

    875,000        776,598  

3.45%, 03/15/2021

    114,000        114,726  

4.13%, 08/15/2046

    495,000        424,640  

4.27%, 01/15/2036

    822,000        758,294  

4.40%, 11/01/2034

    811,000        756,365  

4.50%, 08/10/2033

    600,000        581,029  

4.81%, 03/15/2039

    442,000        427,394  

5.01%, 08/21/2054

    59,000        55,440  

5.25%, 03/16/2037

    206,000        211,562  

Viacom, Inc.

    

3.88%, 04/01/2024

    56,000        54,180  

4.38%, 03/15/2043

    164,000        137,604  

6.88%, 04/30/2036

    330,000        356,569  

Virginia Electric & Power Co.

    

2.75%, 03/15/2023

    145,000        140,534  

2.95%, 01/15/2022

    8,000        7,912  

3.45%, 02/15/2024

    21,000        20,834  

3.80%, 04/01/2028

    255,000        253,518  

4.45%, 02/15/2044

    21,000        21,334  

VMware, Inc.
2.95%, 08/21/2022

    319,000        306,119  

Voya Financial, Inc.

    

3.13%, 07/15/2024

    350,000        330,632  

3.65%, 06/15/2026

    50,000        47,296  

Vulcan Materials Co.
4.50%, 06/15/2047

    120,000        108,948  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    

3.80%, 11/18/2024

    100,000        98,576  

4.50%, 11/18/2034

    195,000        183,126  

Walmart, Inc.
3.95%, 06/28/2038

    525,000        526,308  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Walt Disney Co.
3.00%, 02/13/2026

    $   400,000        $   380,680  

Warner Media LLC

    

2.95%, 07/15/2026

    410,000        368,575  

3.55%, 06/01/2024

    385,000        371,234  

3.60%, 07/15/2025

    305,000        289,999  

4.75%, 03/29/2021

    100,000        103,189  

5.38%, 10/15/2041

    17,000        16,650  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.
3.55%, 06/15/2025

    144,000        141,406  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

2.50%, 03/04/2021

    71,000        69,416  

3.00%, 04/22/2026

    225,000        208,585  

3.07%, 01/24/2023

    1,350,000        1,312,788  

3.30%, 09/09/2024, MTN

    300,000        289,825  

3.50%, 03/08/2022, MTN

    400,000        398,695  

4.10%, 06/03/2026, MTN

    70,000        68,593  

4.30%, 07/22/2027, MTN

    63,000        62,086  

4.40%, 06/14/2046, MTN

    215,000        196,834  

4.65%, 11/04/2044, MTN

    483,000        460,120  

4.75%, 12/07/2046, MTN

    358,000        346,429  

4.90%, 11/17/2045, MTN

    90,000        88,889  

5.38%, 11/02/2043

    200,000        208,844  

Welltower, Inc.

    

4.00%, 06/01/2025

    405,000        397,197  

4.50%, 01/15/2024

    172,000        174,898  

Western Gas Partners, LP

    

3.95%, 06/01/2025

    410,000        386,659  

5.45%, 04/01/2044

    122,000        115,031  

Western Union Co.
3.60%, 03/15/2022

    230,000        228,420  

Westlake Chemical Corp.

    

3.60%, 07/15/2022

    150,000        147,873  

4.38%, 11/15/2047

    95,000        87,547  

WestRock Co.

    

3.00%, 09/15/2024 (A)

    200,000        189,606  

3.75%, 03/15/2025 (A)

    250,000        245,094  

Williams Partners, LP

    

3.90%, 01/15/2025

    78,000        76,091  

4.00%, 09/15/2025

    365,000        356,743  

4.85%, 03/01/2048

    146,000        139,097  

Wisconsin Electric Power Co.

    

2.95%, 09/15/2021

    2,000        1,988  

3.10%, 06/01/2025

    110,000        106,387  

3.65%, 12/15/2042

    40,000        36,930  

4.25%, 12/15/2019

    140,000        142,595  

WW Grainger, Inc.
4.60%, 06/15/2045

    291,000        299,644  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    

4.00%, 06/15/2028 (G)

    120,000        119,986  

4.80%, 09/15/2041

    3,000        3,202  

6.50%, 07/01/2036

    48,000        61,566  

Xylem, Inc.
3.25%, 11/01/2026

    33,000        31,022  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.
3.70%, 03/19/2023

    265,000        263,108  
    

 

 

 
       235,534,881  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    26


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Virgin Islands, British - 0.1%  

China Southern Power Grid International Finance BVI Co., Ltd.
3.50%, 05/08/2027 (A)

    $   360,000        $   342,994  

CNOOC Finance, Ltd.
3.00%, 05/09/2023

    200,000        192,826  

Sinopec Capital 2013, Ltd.
3.13%, 04/24/2023 (A)

    500,000        483,844  

Sinopec Group Overseas Development, Ltd.
4.38%, 10/17/2023 (A)

    200,000        204,819  
    

 

 

 
       1,224,483  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $325,117,790)

 

     316,549,116  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.6%  
Canada - 0.0% (F)  

Province of Ontario
1.65%, 09/27/2019

    87,000        85,952  
    

 

 

 
Colombia - 0.1%  

Colombia Government International Bond

    

4.00%, 02/26/2024

    200,000        199,800  

5.00%, 06/15/2045

    200,000        196,750  

7.38%, 09/18/2037

    100,000        124,500  
    

 

 

 
       521,050  
    

 

 

 
Israel - 0.4%  

Israel Government AID Bond

    

Series 2007-Z,

    

Zero Coupon, 08/15/2025

    1,000,000        796,757  

Series 2008-Z,

    

Zero Coupon, 08/15/2024

    1,000,000        832,412  

Series 2009-Z,

    

Zero Coupon, 11/15/2024

    1,000,000        821,181  

Israel Government AID Bond, Principal Only STRIPS
Series 2,
11/01/2024

    3,300,000        2,715,030  
    

 

 

 
       5,165,380  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.1%  

Mexico Government International Bond

    

3.75%, 01/11/2028

    1,151,000        1,088,271  

4.13%, 01/21/2026

    200,000        198,400  

4.35%, 01/15/2047

    100,000        89,350  

5.55%, 01/21/2045

    119,000        124,355  

4.75%, 03/08/2044, MTN

    212,000        196,712  

5.75%, 10/12/2110, MTN

    70,000        68,915  
    

 

 

 
       1,766,003  
    

 

 

 
Panama - 0.0% (F)  

Panama Government International Bond
4.50%, 04/16/2050

    200,000        192,500  
    

 

 

 
Peru - 0.0% (F)  

Peru Government International Bond
5.63%, 11/18/2050

    35,000        40,644  
    

 

 

 
Supranational - 0.0% (F)  

African Development Bank
8.80%, 09/01/2019

    130,000        138,370  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $8,129,105)

 

     7,909,899  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 4.4%  
Cayman Islands - 0.1%  

BXMT, Ltd.
Series 2017-FL1, Class D,
1-Month LIBOR + 2.70%, 4.77% (B), 06/15/2035 (A)

    $   580,000        $   582,167  

Resource Capital Corp., Ltd.
Series 2015-CRE4, Class B,
1-Month LIBOR + 3.00%, 5.07% (B), 08/15/2032 (A)

    30,189        29,887  

TPG Real Estate Finance Issuer, Ltd.
Series 2018-FL1, Class B,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.30%, 3.37% (B), 02/15/2035 (A)

    500,000        499,070  
    

 

 

 
       1,111,124  
    

 

 

 
United States - 4.3%  

Ajax Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A,
4.13% (B), 10/25/2056 (A)

    241,319        239,836  

Alternative Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-27CB, Class A1,

    

6.00%, 12/25/2034

    345,512        348,183  

Series 2004-28CB, Class 3A1,

6.00%, 01/25/2035

    323,301        323,522  

Series 2006-41CB, Class 2A13,

5.75%, 01/25/2037

    680,750        577,388  

BAMLL Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust

    

Series 2012-PARK, Class A,

2.96%, 12/10/2030 (A)

    100,000        98,299  

Series 2014-520M, Class C,

4.35% (B), 08/15/2046 (A)

    150,000        139,233  

BAMLL Re-REMIC Trust
Series 2015-FR11, Class A705,
1.63% (B), 09/27/2044 (A)

    783,000        775,973  

Banc of America Funding Trust
Series 2005-E, Class 4A1,
3.68% (B), 03/20/2035

    35,928        36,388  

Banc of America Mortgage Trust
Series 2003-J, Class 3A2,
4.05% (B), 11/25/2033

    60,141        60,622  

BB-UBS Trust
Series 2012-SHOW, Class A,
3.43%, 11/05/2036 (A)

    900,000        885,458  

BCAP LLC Trust
Series 2012-RR10, Class 1A1,
2.19% (B), 02/26/2037 (A)

    6,788        6,788  

Bear Stearns Alt-A Trust
Series 2004-6, Class 1A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.64%, 2.73% (B), 07/25/2034

    177,041        176,728  

Bear Stearns ARM Trust

    

Series 2003-4, Class 3A1,

    

4.37% (B), 07/25/2033

    23,248        23,456  

Series 2006-1, Class A1,

    

1-Year CMT + 2.25%,
3.67% (B), 02/25/2036

    249,894        251,418  

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2005-PWR8, Class X1,
0.52% (B), 06/11/2041 (A)

    22,436        160  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

CD Commercial Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2007-CD4, Class XC,
0.78% (B), 12/11/2049 (A)

    $   99,888        $   417  

Chase Mortgage Finance Trust

    

Series 2007-A1, Class 1A3,

3.88% (B), 02/25/2037

    42,410        42,350  

Series 2007-A1, Class 8A1,

3.71% (B), 02/25/2037

    387,232        396,285  

Series 2007-A2, Class 2A1,

3.62% (B), 07/25/2037

    18,887        19,227  

CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust

    

Series 2004-3, Class A26,

5.50%, 04/25/2034

    31,079        31,655  

Series 2004-3, Class A4,

5.75%, 04/25/2034

    24,863        25,507  

Series 2004-HYB6, Class A3,

3.52% (B), 11/20/2034

    370,845        378,497  

Series 2005-15, Class A3,

5.75%, 08/25/2035

    302,001        276,640  

Series 2005-HYB3, Class 2A2A,

3.73% (B), 06/20/2035

    770,186        775,071  

Series 2006-HYB2, Class 2A1B,

3.46% (B), 04/20/2036

    706,677        651,891  

Series 2007-2, Class A16,

6.00%, 03/25/2037

    701,513        576,211  

Citicorp Mortgage Securities, Inc.
Series 2004-3, Class A5,
5.25%, 05/25/2034

    64,120        65,564  

Colt Funding LLC
Series 2018-2, Class A1,
3.47% (B), 07/27/2048 (A)

    1,250,000        1,250,038  

COMM Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2013-300P, Class A1,

4.35%, 08/10/2030 (A)

    500,000        517,873  

Series 2013-SFS, Class A2,

3.09%(B), 04/12/2035 (A)

    156,000        152,278  

Series 2014-CR19, Class A5,

3.80%, 08/10/2047

    750,000        760,201  

Series 2014-PAT, Class A,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.85% (B), 08/13/2027 (A)

    198,000        197,875  

Series 2014-TWC, Class A,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.90% (B), 02/13/2032 (A)

    665,000        664,790  

Series 2014-TWC, Class B,

1-Month LIBOR + 1.60%, 3.65% (B), 02/13/2032 (A)

    500,000        500,405  

Series 2015-CR25, Class A4,

3.76%, 08/10/2048

    437,000        440,441  

Series 2018-HOME, Class A,

3.82% (B), 04/10/2033 (A)

    1,565,000        1,574,025  

Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2006-GG7, Class AM,
5.95% (B), 07/10/2038

    16,490        16,493  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp.

    

Series 2003-21, Class 1A4,

5.25%, 09/25/2033

    25,337        26,021  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp. (continued)

 

Series 2003-AR26, Class 2A1,

3.69% (B), 11/25/2033

    $   330,807        $   330,523  

CSFB Mortgage-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2004-4, Class 2A4,
5.50%, 09/25/2034

      79,427          82,804  

CSMC OA LLC
Series 2014-USA, Class D,
4.37%, 09/15/2037 (A)

    600,000        574,066  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
0.42% (B), 07/25/2023

    28,287,301        397,134  

3.00%, 02/15/2048

    567,000        520,067  

3.21% (B), 04/25/2028

    629,000        617,461  

Series 4790, Class ED,

3.50%, 08/15/2042

    3,472,066        3,489,856  

Series K070, Class A2,

3.30% (B), 11/25/2027

    546,000        539,702  

Series K070, Class AM,

3.36% (B), 12/25/2027

    1,360,000        1,347,379  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC

    

Series 4125, Class KP,

2.50%, 05/15/2041

    1,035,631        1,011,545  

Series 4748, Class HE,

3.00%, 01/15/2048

    2,000,000        1,869,022  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Structured Agency Credit Risk Debt Notes
Series 2018-HQA1, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.79% (B), 09/25/2030

    406,054        406,405  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

Series 2013-74, Class YT,

3.00%, 02/25/2041

    1,050,451        1,045,839  

Series 2017-112, Class AY,

3.50%, 01/25/2048

    1,870,000        1,869,128  

Series 2017-50, Class FB,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.49% (B), 07/25/2047

    4,498,813        4,523,048  

GS Mortgage Securities Corp. Trust
Series 2012-ALOH, Class A,
3.55%, 04/10/2034 (A)

    700,000        705,431  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2011-GC5, Class D,
5.56% (B), 08/10/2044 (A)

    200,000        194,657  

GSMPS Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-RP3, Class 1AF,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (B), 09/25/2035 (A)

    58,168        52,261  

GSR Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2003-10, Class 1A1,

3.54% (B), 10/25/2033

    22,182        22,397  

Series 2004-6F, Class 2A4,

5.50%, 05/25/2034

    47,678        48,984  

Series 2004-8F, Class 2A3,

6.00%, 09/25/2034

    14,354        14,772  

Headlands Residential LLC
Series 2017-RPL1, Class A,
3.88% (B), 08/25/2022 (A)

    1,120,000        1,114,288  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    28


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Impac CMB Trust

    

Series 2004-10, Class 3A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.79% (B), 03/25/2035

    $   605,525        $   568,805  

Series 2004-4, Class 1A2,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.62%, 2.71% (B), 09/25/2034

    300,180        299,336  

Series 2005-4, Class 1A1A,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.54%, 2.63% (B), 05/25/2035

    740,075        737,771  

Series 2005-4, Class 2A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.69% (B), 05/25/2035

    34,184        33,833  

Series 2005-4, Class 2B1,

1-Month LIBOR + 2.48%, 4.57% (B), 05/25/2035

    497,218        474,784  

Series 2005-8, Class 1AM,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.79% (B), 02/25/2036

    928,415        867,343  

Series 2007-A, Class M3,

1-Month LIBOR + 2.25%, 4.34% (B), 05/25/2037 (A)

    817,083        741,188  

Impac Secured Assets CMN Owner Trust
Series 2003-3, Class A1,
4.82% (B), 08/25/2033

    48,470        49,548  

Impac Secured Assets Trust

    

Series 2006-1, Class 2A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (B), 05/25/2036

    73,273        72,497  

Series 2006-2, Class 2A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.44% (B), 08/25/2036

    14,491        14,218  

Independence Plaza Trust
Series 2018-INDP, Class A,
3.76%, 07/10/2035 (A)

    1,035,000        1,037,063  

JPMorgan Alternative Loan Trust
Series 2007-A2, Class 12A3,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.19%, 2.28% (B), 06/25/2037

    702,074        698,906  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust

    

Series 2006-LDP9, Class A3SF,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.16%, 2.23% (B), 05/15/2047

    24,783        24,714  

Series 2007-LD11, Class AM,

6.16% (B), 06/15/2049

    125,719        127,658  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2006-LDP8, Class X,
0.29% (B), 05/15/2045

    61,719        96  

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2004-A1, Class 1A1,

3.73% (B), 02/25/2034

    13,893        13,880  

Series 2006-A2, Class 5A3,

3.62% (B), 11/25/2033

    29,312        29,910  

Ladder Capital Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2013-GCP, Class A2,
3.99%, 02/15/2036 (A)

    192,000        191,240  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

LB-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2006-C6, Class AJ,
5.45% (B), 09/15/2039

    $   698,385        $   529,139  

LSTAR Securities Investment, Ltd.
Series 2017-7, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.75%, 0.04% (B), 10/01/2022 (A)

    371,468        373,244  

MASTR Adjustable Rate Mortgages Trust

    

Series 2004-13, Class 2A1,

3.81% (B), 04/21/2034

    49,773        51,070  

Series 2004-13, Class 3A7,

3.91% (B), 11/21/2034

    23,178        23,796  

Series 2004-13, Class 3A7B,

1-Year CMT + 2.00%,
4.23% (B), 11/21/2034

    347,675        355,488  

MASTR Alternative Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-4, Class 1A1,

5.50%, 05/25/2034

    38,125        39,570  

Series 2004-5, Class 5A1,

4.75%, 06/25/2019

    3,004        3,004  

MASTR Alternative Loan Trust, Principal Only STRIPS
Series 2003-8, Class 15,
11/25/2018

    4,847        4,739  

MASTR Asset Securitization Trust
Series 2003-11, Class 9A6,
5.25%, 12/25/2033

    64,764        65,463  

MASTR Seasoned Securitization Trust
Series 2004-2, Class A2,
6.50% (B), 08/25/2032

    81,268        83,730  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust

    

Series 2003-E, Class A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.62%, 2.71% (B), 10/25/2028

    400,749        397,874  

Series 2003-H, Class A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.64%, 2.73% (B), 01/25/2029

    86,425        85,469  

Series 2004-A, Class A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.46%, 2.55% (B), 04/25/2029

    93,542        92,254  

ML-CFC Commercial Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2006-4, Class XC,
0.71% (B), 12/12/2049 (A)

    48,325        1  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust
Series 2014-C14, Class A3,
3.67%, 02/15/2047

    300,000        302,962  

Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust

    

Series 2006-HQ10, Class AJ,

5.39% (B), 11/12/2041

    371,879        370,732  

Series 2006-HQ8, Class D,

5.79% (B), 03/12/2044

    304,719        307,626  

Series 2007-T27, Class C,

6.15% (B), 06/11/2042 (A)

    1,000,000        1,044,254  

Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Interest Only STRIPS

    

Series 2006-IQ12, Class X1,

0.66% (B), 12/15/2043 (A)

    197,429        5  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    29


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Morgan Stanley Capital I Trust, Interest Only STRIPS (continued)

 

Series 2007-HQ11, Class X,

0.53% (B), 02/12/2044 (A)

    $   63,495        $   95  

Morgan Stanley Re-REMIC Trust

    

Series 2012-IO, Class AXA,

1.00%, 03/27/2051 (A)

    17,368        17,286  

Series 2012-XA, Class B,

0.25%, 07/27/2049 (A)

    67,874        63,806  

MortgageIT Trust
Series 2005-5, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.26%, 2.35% (B), 12/25/2035

    256,254        254,628  

Opteum Mortgage Acceptance Corp. Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2005-5, Class 1APT,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.28%, 2.37% (B), 12/25/2035

    833,455        816,377  

Opteum Mortgage Acceptance Corp. Trust
Series 2006-1, Class 1AC1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.39% (B), 04/25/2036

    658,398        634,405  

Provident Funding Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-1, Class 2A1,
3.81% (B), 05/25/2035

    22,322        21,889  

RAIT Trust
Series 2015-FL5, Class B,
1-Month LIBOR + 3.90%, 5.95% (B), 01/15/2031 (A)

    295,000        295,024  

RALI Trust
Series 2004-QA4, Class NB3,
4.85% (B), 09/25/2034

    41,382        41,258  

RBS Commercial Funding, Inc.
Series 2013-SMV, Class A,
3.26%, 03/11/2031 (A)

    160,000        157,275  

Sequoia Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2003-1, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.76%,
2.84% (B), 04/20/2033

    147,809        145,188  

Series 2003-2, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%,
2.74% (B), 06/20/2033

    44,292        44,471  

Series 2004-11, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%,
2.68% (B), 12/20/2034

    51,742        50,979  

Series 2004-5, Class A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%,
2.60% (B), 06/20/2034

    161,132        152,929  

Series 2004-8, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%,
2.78% (B), 09/20/2034

    249,044        239,334  

Series 2004-9, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%,
2.76% (B), 10/20/2034

    193,522        189,205  

Series 2007-3, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%,
2.28% (B), 07/20/2036

    337,609        321,865  

Series 2010, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%,
2.88% (B), 10/20/2027

    62,931        61,338  

Series 2018-2, Class A4,

3.50% (B),  02/25/2048 (A)

      967,940          963,054  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Structured Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-1, Class 4A4,

3.76% (B), 02/25/2034

    $   433,734        $   436,895  

Series 2004-12, Class 9A,

3.71% (B), 09/25/2034

      527,414          533,993  

Series 2004-18, Class 4A1,

4.21% (B), 12/25/2034

    256,768        253,805  

Series 2004-4, Class 5A,

3.80% (B), 04/25/2034

    6,086        6,244  

Structured Asset Mortgage Investments II Trust

    

Series 2004-AR5, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%, 2.74% (B), 10/19/2034

    39,495        37,797  

Series 2005-AR5, Class A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.33% (B), 07/19/2035

    130,850        127,245  

Structured Asset Securities Corp.
Series 2003-37A, Class 2A,
3.69% (B), 12/25/2033

    7,240        7,280  

Structured Asset Securities Corp. Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2003-26A, Class 3A5,
3.62% (B), 09/25/2033

    457,731        461,732  

Thornburg Mortgage Securities Trust

    

Series 2003-4, Class A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.64%, 2.73% (B), 09/25/2043

    87,315        84,459  

Series 2004-3, Class A,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.74%, 2.83% (B), 09/25/2044

    102,824        101,272  

Series 2004-4, Class 3A,

3.06% (B), 12/25/2044

    143,261        144,194  

UBS-BAMLL Trust
Series 2012-WRM, Class A,
3.66%, 06/10/2030 (A)

    174,000        172,824  

UBS-Barclays Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2012-C2, Class A4,

3.53%, 05/10/2063

    104,000        104,615  

Series 2013-C6, Class A4,

3.24%, 04/10/2046

    286,000        284,162  

UBS-Barclays Commercial Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2012-C2, Class XA,
1.49% (B), 05/10/2063 (A)

    542,304        23,509  

V.M. Jog Engineering, Ltd.
Series 2017, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 4.60%,
6.56% (B), 12/15/2020

    1,185,000        1,185,000  

VNDO Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2012-6AVE, Class A,

3.00%, 11/15/2030 (A)

    544,235        536,561  

Series 2013-PENN, Class A,

3.81%, 12/13/2029 (A)

    400,000        404,298  

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2007-C31, Class C,

6.17% (B), 04/15/2047

    1,000,000        1,013,311  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    30


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust (continued)

 

Series 2007-C34, Class B,

6.38% (B), 05/15/2046

    $   500,000        $   508,765  

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2006-C24, Class XC,
0.10% (B), 03/15/2045 (A)

    443,601        2  

WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust

    

Series 2003-AR10, Class A7,

3.46% (B), 10/25/2033

    34,098        34,554  

Series 2003-AR11, Class A6,

3.37% (B), 10/25/2033

    65,904        66,795  

Series 2003-AR5, Class A7,

4.10% (B), 06/25/2033

    49,761        50,268  

Series 2003-AR6, Class A1,

4.21% (B), 06/25/2033

    60,107        60,718  

Series 2003-AR7, Class A7,

3.29% (B), 08/25/2033

    59,401        60,081  

Series 2003-S3, Class 1A4,

5.50%, 06/25/2033

    29,764        30,657  

Series 2004-CB2, Class 7A,

5.50%, 08/25/2019

    4,221        4,236  

Series 2004-CB3, Class 3A,

5.50%, 10/25/2019

    4,169        4,189  

Series 2005-AR10, Class 1A3,

3.36% (B), 09/25/2035

    261,251        266,004  

Series 2005-AR10, Class 1A4,

3.36% (B), 09/25/2035

    708,572        724,055  

Series 2006-AR17, Class 1A1A,

12-MTA + 0.81%,
2.27% (B), 12/25/2046

    336,549        330,927  

Wells Fargo Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2013-120B, Class A,
2.80% (B), 03/18/2028 (A)

    400,000        396,181  

Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust

    

Series 2003-G, Class A1,

3.60% (B), 06/25/2033

    61,235        62,001  

Series 2003-M, Class A1,

3.73% (B), 12/25/2033

    340,771        349,083  

Series 2004-EE, Class 3A2,

4.16% (B), 12/25/2034

    180,257        187,227  

Series 2004-I, Class 1A1,

3.75% (B), 07/25/2034

    136,651        139,863  

Series 2004-P, Class 2A1,

3.64% (B), 09/25/2034

    52,775        54,205  

Series 2004-R, Class 2A1,

3.60% (B), 09/25/2034

    19,941        20,611  

Series 2005-AR14, Class A1,

3.66% (B), 08/25/2035

    278,545        282,640  

Series 2005-AR16, Class 6A3,

4.10% (B), 10/25/2035

    198,972        200,649  

Series 2005-AR3, Class 1A1,

4.23% (B), 03/25/2035

    278,902        287,002  

Series 2005-AR4, Class 2A2,

3.97% (B), 04/25/2035

    185,447        186,664  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust (continued)

 

Series 2005-AR8, Class 2A1,

3.91% (B), 06/25/2035

    $   19,906        $   20,397  

Series 2005-AR9, Class 2A1,

3.71% (B), 10/25/2033

    23,364        23,666  

Series 2005-AR9, Class 3A1,

4.24% (B), 06/25/2034

    454,445        468,670  

Series 2006-AR6, Class 7A1,

3.65% (B), 03/25/2036

    349,919        354,999  

WFRBS Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2011-C3, Class A4,

4.38%, 03/15/2044 (A)

    100,000        102,560  

Series 2012-C6, Class A4,

3.44%, 04/15/2045

    200,000        201,003  
    

 

 

 
       60,041,460  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $60,665,901)

 

     61,152,584  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.0% (F)  
California - 0.0% (F)  

City of Los Angeles Department of Airports, Revenue Bonds,
Series C,
6.58%, 05/15/2039

    25,000        31,881  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited,
7.30%, 10/01/2039

    80,000        113,344  
    

 

 

 
       145,225  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.0% (F)  

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Revenue Bonds
4.46%, 10/01/2062

    170,000        180,552  

5.65%, 11/01/2040

    40,000        49,549  
    

 

 

 
       230,101  
    

 

 

 
Ohio - 0.0% (F)  

Ohio State University, Revenue Bonds Series A,
4.05%, 12/01/2056

    114,000        115,784  

4.80%, 06/01/2111

    91,000        99,165  
    

 

 

 
       214,949  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $554,613)

 

     590,275  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 22.4%  

Federal Home Loan Banks
5.50%, 07/15/2036

    250,000        326,226  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
2.20% (B), 05/25/2028

    4,531,000        722,763  

2.25%, 03/15/2042

    2,758,432        2,581,639  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.62% (B), 07/15/2042 - 03/15/2044

    1,639,531        1,661,139  

3.00%, 07/01/2033 - 06/01/2045

    8,842,342        8,546,262  

3.50%, 01/01/2032 - 03/01/2048

    10,477,595        10,499,712  

1-Year CMT + 2.25%, 3.53% (B), 02/01/2036

    47,851        50,494  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    31


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. (continued)

 

12-Month LIBOR + 1.85%, 3.73% (B), 07/01/2040

    $   94,893        $   99,690  

1-Year CMT + 2.43%, 3.75% (B), 12/01/2031

    38,146        40,443  

4.00%, 12/01/2040 - 01/01/2046

    1,502,396        1,545,120  

4.50%, 05/01/2041

    551,231        579,644  

5.00%, 02/01/2034

    276,948        287,468  

6.00%, 01/01/2024 - 01/01/2034

    103,952        109,534  

6.50%, 12/01/2027 - 11/01/2037

    385,453        430,762  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates
2.60%, 09/25/2020

    53,113        52,726  

2.62%, 01/25/2023

    1,750,000        1,716,831  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.70% (B), 09/25/2022

    386,812        387,783  

2.72%, 07/25/2026

    840,000        805,825  

2.74%, 09/25/2025

    700,000        672,295  

2.77%, 05/25/2025

    750,000        728,570  

2.81%, 09/25/2024

    1,478,000        1,443,875  

2.84%, 09/25/2022

    534,000        528,345  

3.12%, 06/25/2027

    1,634,000        1,597,057  

3.24%, 04/25/2027

    602,000        595,158  

3.33%, 05/25/2027

    322,000        319,103  

3.39%, 03/25/2024

    714,000        723,239  

3.49%, 01/25/2024

    1,000,000        1,017,878  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.31% (B), 07/15/2037

    132,818        133,039  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.42% (B), 06/15/2043

    1,090,931        1,088,410  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (B), 04/15/2039

    392,363        393,816  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.52% (B), 03/15/2039 - 11/15/2039

    626,737        625,691  

3.00%, 04/15/2025 - 01/15/2046

    16,362,719        16,156,447  

3.50%, 05/15/2021 - 02/15/2042

    5,041,912        5,114,707  

4.00%, 12/15/2024 - 12/15/2041

    3,125,814        3,225,230  

4.50%, 02/15/2020 - 06/15/2025

    508,435        531,902  

5.00%, 07/15/2020 - 05/15/2041

    579,188        612,900  

5.30%, 01/15/2033

    60,757        65,423  

5.50%, 11/15/2023 - 07/15/2037

    1,194,894        1,298,473  

(3.62) * 1-Month LIBOR + 27.21%, 5.50% (B), 05/15/2041

    62,430        62,944  

(3.67) * 1-Month LIBOR + 27.50%, 5.50% (B), 05/15/2041

    131,808        138,631  

5.70% (B), 10/15/2038

    34,893        37,829  

5.75%, 06/15/2035 - 08/15/2035

    1,228,363        1,354,284  

5.85%, 09/15/2035

    352,413        388,778  

6.00%, 04/15/2036

    110,376        122,162  

6.50%, 02/15/2032

    48,961        53,995  

(2.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 14.40%, 10.25% (B), 09/15/2034

    906        906  

(4.44) * 1-Month LIBOR + 24.43%, 15.22% (B), 06/15/2035

    80,045        88,772  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.37%, 4.30% (B), 10/15/2037

    $   326,829        $   45,429  

4.50%, 12/15/2024

    10,599        214  

5.00%, 10/15/2039

    114,263        14,760  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Principal Only STRIPS
04/15/2020 - 01/15/2040

    290,220        252,812  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Structured Pass-Through Certificates
1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.49% (B), 03/25/2043

    615,939        612,566  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

Zero Coupon, 10/09/2019

    450,000        435,667  

1.47%, 12/01/2019

    438,403        429,456  

2.00%, 12/01/2020

    500,000        488,417  

2.01%, 06/01/2020

    2,000,000        1,964,973  

2.03%, 08/01/2019

    24,736        24,559  

2.22%, 12/01/2022

    1,398,605        1,353,450  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.26% (B), 01/01/2023

    887,633        887,393  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.37%, 2.28% (B), 12/01/2024

    2,000,000        1,992,578  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.22%, 2.31% (B), 03/25/2045

    73,642        73,306  

2.38%, 12/01/2022

    933,321        909,111  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.48%, 2.39% (B), 09/01/2024

    926,094        921,797  

2.39%, 06/01/2025

    408,735        386,872  

2.40%, 12/01/2022 - 02/01/2023

    2,883,757        2,810,540  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.45% (B), 08/25/2019

    34,548        34,525  

2.45%, 11/01/2022 - 02/01/2023

    3,000,000        2,926,433  

2.47%, 09/01/2022

    443,613        433,116  

2.49%, 05/25/2026

    1,000,000        939,722  

2.50%, 04/01/2023

    1,000,000        974,901  

2.52%, 10/01/2022 - 05/01/2023

    1,454,778        1,421,220  

2.53%, 10/01/2022 - 09/25/2024

    2,281,031        2,208,160  

2.57% (B), 12/25/2026

    1,500,000        1,401,009  

2.57%, 01/01/2023

    1,941,591        1,905,537  

2.59%, 10/01/2028

    2,435,000        2,244,943  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.59% (B), 08/25/2042

    273,275        275,210  

2.61% (B), 10/25/2021

    921,656        912,137  

2.64%, 04/01/2023

    920,331        900,036  

2.66%, 12/01/2022

    991,265        973,124  

2.67%, 07/01/2022

    1,000,000        981,220  

2.69%, 12/01/2028

    2,010,000        1,862,517  

2.70%, 07/01/2026

    1,000,000        953,190  

2.72%, 10/25/2024

    1,000,000        971,664  

2.75%, 03/01/2022

    442,694        436,582  

2.77%, 06/01/2023

    859,496        844,840  

2.81%, 06/01/2023 - 05/01/2027

    1,998,616        1,943,698  

2.86%, 05/01/2022

    890,836        881,434  

2.87%, 02/01/2032

    650,000        603,040  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 2.88% (B), 11/25/2022

    441,504        445,928  

2.90%, 06/25/2027

    1,184,308        1,138,932  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    32


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

2.92%, 08/25/2021 - 12/01/2024

    $   1,309,757        $   1,290,985  

2.93%, 06/01/2030

    800,000        757,380  

2.94%, 02/01/2027 - 12/01/2028

    4,273,246        4,080,406  

2.98%, 07/01/2022 - 04/01/2023

    2,428,798        2,415,505  

3.02% (B), 08/25/2024

    955,000        942,364  

3.04%, 12/01/2024

    1,000,000        988,829  

3.05%, 01/01/2025 - 12/01/2029

    6,676,000        6,398,039  

3.06%, 08/01/2032

    1,140,000        1,070,913  

3.06% (B), 05/25/2027

    930,000        902,470  

3.08%, 12/01/2024 - 12/01/2029

    2,167,119        2,108,658  

3.09%, 09/01/2029

    2,385,000        2,280,293  

3.09% (B), 04/25/2027

    1,167,000        1,129,728  

3.10%, 09/01/2025

    1,000,000        992,302  

3.10% (B), 07/25/2024

    820,000        816,011  

3.11%, 01/01/2022 - 12/01/2024

    1,669,480        1,663,373  

3.12%, 05/01/2022 - 02/01/2027

    2,845,927        2,807,319  

3.13%, 06/01/2030

    500,000        476,650  

3.14%, 12/01/2026

    937,135        922,829  

3.14% (B), 03/25/2028

    740,000        715,846  

3.15%, 12/01/2024

    2,401,394        2,381,122  

3.18% (B), 06/25/2027

    1,001,000        976,620  

3.19% (B), 02/25/2030

    529,000        505,531  

3.20%, 06/01/2030

    500,000        485,896  

3.21%, 03/01/2029

    4,000,000        3,887,807  

3.23%, 11/01/2020 - 08/01/2027

    2,588,990        2,566,658  

3.24%, 10/01/2026 - 01/01/2033

    1,887,165        1,844,237  

3.26%, 07/01/2022

    1,286,709        1,297,349  

3.28%, 08/01/2020

    3,648,302        3,657,795  

3.29%, 10/01/2020 - 08/01/2026

    4,919,142        4,902,687  

3.30%, 12/01/2026 - 12/01/2029

    4,967,482        4,869,962  

3.30% (B), 04/25/2029

    823,000        796,690  

3.32%, 04/01/2029

    3,000,000        2,943,647  

3.34%, 02/01/2027 - 07/01/2030

    4,660,962        4,615,099  

3.35%, 08/01/2023

    666,319        670,898  

3.38%, 12/01/2023

    1,488,257        1,501,349  

3.45%, 01/01/2024 - 04/01/2029

    3,093,726        3,094,115  

3.50%, 08/01/2032 - 07/01/2047

    22,109,884        22,157,398  

3.50% (B), 01/25/2024

    1,500,000        1,523,651  

3.51% (B), 12/25/2023

    1,776,000        1,812,290  

3.56%, 01/01/2021

    673,203        683,089  

3.58%, 01/01/2032

    1,700,000        1,710,076  

3.59%, 12/01/2020

    1,300,089        1,318,296  

3.63%, 10/01/2029

    474,305        481,635  

3.67%, 07/01/2023

    925,000        946,680  

3.73%, 07/01/2022

    817,701        833,195  

3.76%, 11/01/2023

    992,002        1,016,738  

3.77%, 09/01/2021 - 12/01/2025

    2,000,000        2,048,747  

3.82%, 05/01/2022

    764,664        779,849  

3.84%, 09/01/2020

    605,262        605,882  

3.87%, 08/01/2021

    448,316        458,735  

3.95%, 09/01/2021

    156,767        160,275  

4.00%, 01/01/2035 - 09/01/2047

    16,433,392        16,877,097  

4.02%, 11/01/2028

    371,948        390,325  

4.04%, 10/01/2020

    400,000        408,598  

4.13%, 08/01/2021

    446,680        459,611  

4.25%, 04/01/2021

    1,050,000        1,081,836  

4.30%, 04/01/2021

    416,359        429,218  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

4.33%, 04/01/2021

    $   358,208        $   369,500  

4.36%, 05/01/2021

    941,303        972,622  

4.39%, 05/01/2021

    280,489        288,674  

4.48%, 02/01/2021

    448,130        461,260  

4.50%, 12/01/2019 - 09/01/2040

    1,314,239        1,362,825  

4.54%, 01/01/2020

    636,228        650,335  

5.00%, 06/01/2033 - 08/01/2040

    185,496        198,153  

5.50%, 03/01/2024 - 03/01/2035

    385,622        417,342  

6.00%, 08/01/2021 - 09/01/2037

    819,729        889,002  

7.00%, 11/01/2037 - 12/01/2037

    32,653        35,432  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.29%, 2.38% (B), 07/25/2036

    103,024        102,834  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.49% (B), 05/25/2027

    152,943        153,857  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.59% (B), 05/25/2035 - 10/25/2042

    935,378        941,492  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.69% (B), 04/25/2040

    31,319        31,543  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.74% (B), 02/25/2024

    71,524        71,803  

2.75%, 10/25/2047

    163,840        127,772  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 2.99% (B), 03/25/2038

    155,782        159,119  

3.00%, 05/25/2026 - 01/25/2048

    2,986,341        2,882,647  

1-Month LIBOR + 1.25%, 3.34% (B), 07/25/2023

    129,806        132,001  

3.50%, 04/25/2031 - 02/25/2058

    1,446,912        1,416,077  

4.00%, 05/25/2033

    150,933        155,173  

5.00%, 10/25/2025

    98,614        102,838  

5.25%, 05/25/2039

    38,022        39,188  

5.50%, 03/25/2023 - 07/25/2040

    806,246        860,049  

6.00%, 03/25/2029

    22,308        24,116  

6.50%, 01/25/2032 - 07/25/2036

    98,812        109,938  

7.00%, 11/25/2041

    99,218        110,975  

(3.50) * 1-Month LIBOR + 23.10%, 15.78% (B), 06/25/2035

    63,947        73,807  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS

    

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.53%, 4.44% (B), 01/25/2041

    324,762        55,343  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.60%, 4.51% (B), 08/25/2035 - 06/25/2036

    369,044        43,006  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.70%, 4.61% (B), 03/25/2036

    314,310        53,124  

5.00%, 08/25/2019

    101,946        929  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Principal Only STRIPS
12/25/2034 - 12/25/2043

    1,488,839        1,182,623  

Federal National Mortgage Association, Principal Only STRIPS
09/25/2024 - 08/25/2032

    34,656        31,064  

05/15/2030, MTN

    400,000        266,788  

FREMF Mortgage Trust
3.70% (B), 11/25/2049 (A)

    491,000        472,921  

3.81% (B), 01/25/2048 (A)

    2,300,000        2,260,751  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    33


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

FREMF Mortgage Trust (continued)

    

3.81% (B), 01/25/2048 (A)

    $   1,000,000        $   947,646  

3.96% (B), 11/25/2047 (A)

    1,000,000        948,113  

3.97% (B), 07/25/2049 (A)

    440,000        436,259  

4.21% (B), 11/25/2047 (A)

    455,000        455,178  

1-Month LIBOR + 2.50%, 4.50% (B), 11/25/2024 (A)

    999,923        1,018,804  

Government National Mortgage Association
1.65%, 01/20/2063 - 04/20/2063

    1,840,066        1,806,042  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.26% (B), 12/20/2062

    556,640        556,087  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.41%, 2.33% (B), 03/20/2063

    338,201        338,523  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.37% (B), 03/20/2060 - 02/20/2063

    669,506        670,801  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.47%, 2.39% (B), 03/20/2063 - 08/20/2065

    2,032,674        2,038,865  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.48%, 2.40% (B), 04/20/2063 - 02/20/2065

    2,365,955        2,375,245  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.42% (B), 02/20/2061 - 06/20/2067

    5,779,460        5,803,298  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.43% (B), 10/20/2062

    310,799        311,769  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.44% (B), 09/20/2065

    578,280        581,889  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.47% (B), 04/20/2062 - 07/20/2062

    212,434        212,817  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.56%, 2.48% (B), 03/20/2067

    1,443,122        1,455,614  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.58%, 2.50% (B), 05/20/2066

    786,596        789,000  

2.50%, 04/16/2045

    3,691,890        3,157,571  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.52% (B), 04/20/2064 - 11/20/2065

    3,049,599        3,077,125  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.57% (B), 05/20/2061 - 03/20/2064

    2,522,777        2,541,751  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.69%, 2.61% (B), 02/20/2064

    603,646        611,467  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.62% (B), 09/20/2063

    1,148,163        1,157,869  

1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 2.92% (B), 12/20/2066

    461,364        472,581  

3.00%, 09/20/2047

    341,000        304,451  

3.98% (B), 11/16/2042

    189,832        194,084  

4.00%, 09/16/2025

    500,000        508,387  

4.25%, 12/20/2044

    736,344        774,971  

4.50%, 05/20/2048

    6,805,566        7,076,248  

4.60% (B), 10/20/2041

    539,769        562,815  

4.75% (B), 11/20/2042

    479,223        502,692  

5.00%, 04/20/2041 - 05/20/2048

    1,212,219        1,287,704  

5.24% (B), 07/20/2060

    297,545        302,718  

5.50%, 01/16/2033 - 07/20/2037

    725,442        787,663  

5.85% (B), 12/20/2038

    115,503        127,172  

6.00%, 02/15/2024 - 09/20/2038

    538,096        575,601  

(3.50) * 1-Month LIBOR + 23.28%, 15.98% (B), 04/20/2037

    49,813        63,734  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Government National Mortgage Association, Interest Only STRIPS
2.15% (B), 06/20/2067

    $   2,961,679        $   305,349  

(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 6.60%, 4.52% (B), 05/20/2041

    107,911        15,505  

7.50%, 04/20/2031

    22,761        2,165  

Government National Mortgage Association, Principal Only STRIPS
02/17/2033 - 01/20/2038

    51,129        46,585  

Residual Funding Corp., Principal Only STRIPS
10/15/2019 - 10/15/2020

    6,075,000        5,776,221  

Tennessee Valley Authority
1.75%, 10/15/2018

    171,000        170,812  

4.25%, 09/15/2065

    264,000        299,024  

4.63%, 09/15/2060

    155,000        185,874  

5.88%, 04/01/2036

    625,000        820,663  

Tennessee Valley Authority, Principal Only STRIPS
07/15/2028

    1,000,000        710,934  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $317,962,352)

 

     312,394,130  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 12.1%  
U.S. Treasury - 11.9%  

U.S. Treasury Bond
2.50%, 02/15/2045

    1,300,000        1,185,285  

2.75%, 08/15/2042 - 11/15/2047

    3,309,100        3,173,216  

2.88%, 05/15/2043

    3,580,000        3,517,630  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (G)

    291,000        291,978  

3.13%, 02/15/2043 - 05/15/2048

    1,397,000        1,435,214  

3.38%, 05/15/2044

    2,100,000        2,250,527  

3.63%, 08/15/2043 - 02/15/2044

    5,270,000        5,876,443  

3.75%, 11/15/2043

    2,508,000        2,851,185  

3.88%, 08/15/2040

    2,160,000        2,485,688  

4.25%, 05/15/2039 - 11/15/2040

    1,750,000        2,119,756  

4.38%, 02/15/2038 - 05/15/2041

    8,223,000        10,080,943  

4.50%, 02/15/2036 - 08/15/2039

    8,746,000        10,875,723  

4.75%, 02/15/2037

    450,000        570,322  

5.38%, 02/15/2031

    29,000        36,642  

8.75%, 08/15/2020

    1,000,000        1,126,836  

U.S. Treasury Bond, Principal Only STRIPS
05/15/2021 - 05/15/2035

    71,693,000        55,717,041  

08/15/2022 - 02/15/2023 (G)

    10,890,000        9,620,573  

U.S. Treasury Note
0.75%, 02/15/2019

    150,000        148,641  

1.13%, 01/31/2019

    7,697,000        7,649,495  

1.38%, 01/31/2021

    245,000        237,526  

1.50%, 06/15/2020 - 01/31/2022

    640,000        621,308  

1.63%, 08/15/2022 - 02/15/2026

    2,684,400        2,540,774  

1.75%, 11/30/2021 - 09/30/2022

    3,500,000        3,392,324  

2.00%, 02/28/2021 - 11/15/2026

    8,506,000        8,249,859  

2.13%, 01/31/2021 - 05/15/2025

    15,605,000        15,192,727  

2.25%, 11/15/2024 - 02/15/2027

    830,000        795,687  

2.50%, 05/31/2020 - 05/15/2024

    1,556,000        1,537,775  

2.63%, 11/15/2020 - 05/15/2021

    746,700        747,207  

2.75%, 05/31/2023 - 02/15/2024

    3,228,100        3,227,354  

2.88%, 04/30/2025 - 05/15/2028

    1,060,100        1,063,931  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    34


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Note (continued)

    

3.13%, 05/15/2021

    $   3,350,000        $   3,396,193  

3.38%, 11/15/2019

    200,000        202,406  

3.63%, 02/15/2021

    3,250,000        3,332,900  
    

 

 

 
       165,551,109  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.2%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond
2.50%, 01/15/2029

    58,333        68,543  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Note
0.13%, 04/15/2019 - 01/15/2022

    2,024,937        1,999,847  

1.38%, 01/15/2020

    88,032        89,023  
    

 

 

 
       2,157,413  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $169,961,012)

 

     167,708,522  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 21.9%  
Australia - 0.3%  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.

    43,111        900,977  

BHP Billiton, Ltd.

    44,356        1,113,118  

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (G)

    2,690        145,065  

CSL, Ltd.

    2,488        354,661  

Dexus, REIT

    55,074        395,755  

Goodman Group, REIT

    81,612        581,019  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    683        62,499  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.

    4,195        85,095  

Wesfarmers, Ltd.

    12,715        464,465  

Westpac Banking Corp.

    7,818        169,521  
    

 

 

 
       4,272,175  
    

 

 

 
Austria - 0.0% (F)  

Erste Group Bank AG (K)

    7,575        316,248  
    

 

 

 
Belgium - 0.1%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA

    12,442        1,256,825  
    

 

 

 
Bermuda - 0.0% (F)  

Aspen Insurance Holdings, Ltd.

    950        38,665  

Everest Re Group, Ltd.

    388        89,426  

Maiden Holdings, Ltd.

    1,050        8,138  

RenaissanceRe Holdings, Ltd.

    675        81,216  
    

 

 

 
       217,445  
    

 

 

 
Canada - 0.1%  

Lululemon Athletica, Inc. (K)

    2,280        284,658  

Waste Connections, Inc.

    15,397        1,159,086  
    

 

 

 
       1,443,744  
    

 

 

 
Denmark - 0.1%  

Chr Hansen Holding A/S

    3,851        355,768  

Novo Nordisk A/S, Class B

    9,183        426,048  
    

 

 

 
       781,816  
    

 

 

 
Finland - 0.1%  

Cargotec OYJ, B Shares

    6,231        315,366  

Nokia OYJ

    82,820        476,816  

Outokumpu OYJ (G)

    69,379        431,679  

Wartsila OYJ Abp

    9,694        190,526  
    

 

 

 
       1,414,387  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
France - 0.8%  

Air Liquide SA

    8,891        $   1,118,239  

Airbus SE

    7,566        885,855  

Alstom SA

    13,102        602,228  

AXA SA

    33,346        818,355  

BNP Paribas SA

    15,424        958,066  

Capgemini SE

    3,634        488,884  

Pernod Ricard SA (G)

    4,796        783,548  

Renault SA (G)

    7,229        614,833  

Sanofi

    12,505        1,002,519  

Schneider Electric SE

    10,632        886,754  

Sodexo SA

    6,182        618,120  

TOTAL SA

    22,087        1,346,663  

Vinci SA

    1,714        164,852  

Vivendi SA

    12,991        318,589  
    

 

 

 
       10,607,505  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 0.5%  

adidas AG

    1,864        406,949  

Allianz SE

    674        139,332  

BASF SE

    3,203        306,381  

Bayer AG

    9,509        1,047,720  

Brenntag AG

    9,398        523,726  

Daimler AG

    13,119        844,612  

Deutsche Bank AG

    10,638        114,565  

Deutsche Boerse AG

    4,211        561,345  

Deutsche Post AG

    13,176        430,373  

Deutsche Telekom AG (K)

    34,483        534,373  

Infineon Technologies AG

    17,216        438,889  

Linde AG

    363        86,648  

SAP SE

    11,239        1,298,709  

Siemens AG

    4,069        537,996  
    

 

 

 
       7,271,618  
    

 

 

 
Hong Kong - 0.2%  

AIA Group, Ltd.

    99,600        870,878  

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

    97,000        456,836  

CK Asset Holdings, Ltd.

    46,500        369,245  

CK Hutchison Holdings, Ltd.

    54,000        572,652  
    

 

 

 
       2,269,611  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 0.2%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    4,330        708,345  

Allegion PLC

    3,742        289,481  

CRH PLC

    12,027        426,270  

Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC (K)

    2,441        420,584  

Medtronic PLC

    5,680        486,265  

Ryanair Holdings PLC, ADR (K)

    5,213        595,481  
    

 

 

 
       2,926,426  
    

 

 

 
Israel - 0.0% (F)  

SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (K)

    700        33,495  

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., ADR

    10,314        250,836  
    

 

 

 
       284,331  
    

 

 

 
Italy - 0.1%  

Assicurazioni Generali SpA

    30,290        508,305  

Enel SpA

    166,396        924,367  

Telecom Italia SpA (K)

    371,555        276,569  

UniCredit SpA

    4,195        70,035  
    

 

 

 
       1,779,276  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    35


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Japan - 1.5%  

Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd.

      6,700        $   343,245  

Bridgestone Corp.

    18,000        704,457  

Central Japan Railway Co.

    2,100        435,497  

Daicel Corp.

    42,200        467,301  

Daikin Industries, Ltd.

    7,100        850,987  

DMG Mori Co., Ltd. (G)

    20,800        288,756  

Electric Power Development Co., Ltd.

    5,300        136,910  

Hitachi, Ltd.

    38,000        268,264  

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

    25,700        755,111  

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

    12,900        457,672  

Japan Tobacco, Inc. (G)

    17,500        489,206  

Kao Corp.

    9,000        686,899  

KDDI Corp.

    10,700        292,930  

Keyence Corp.

    500        282,527  

Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd.

    10,500        211,773  

Kyushu Electric Power Co., Inc.

    15,100        168,573  

Mabuchi Motor Co., Ltd.

    13,800        656,876  

Marui Group Co., Ltd.

    29,300        617,678  

Mitsubishi Corp.

    25,200        700,588  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

    160,600        915,455  

NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.

    17,000        485,210  

Nintendo Co., Ltd.

    700        228,876  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    11,400        518,542  

Nomura Research Institute, Ltd.

    8,200        397,724  

Olympus Corp.

    2,400        89,961  

Otsuka Corp.

    7,900        310,035  

Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd.

    13,000        629,833  

Panasonic Corp.

    41,100        554,422  

Renesas Electronics Corp. (K)

    72,100        707,227  

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.

    18,100        789,785  

Sony Corp.

    6,500        332,529  

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

    27,800        414,307  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    19,500        758,407  

T&D Holdings, Inc.

    33,600        505,146  

Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.

    12,300        576,922  

Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd.

    9,700        257,624  

Tokyu Corp.

    34,500        594,554  

Toray Industries, Inc.

    61,400        484,700  

Toyota Motor Corp.

    22,200        1,437,691  

West Japan Railway Co.

    7,100        523,546  

Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd.

    18,800        554,245  
    

 

 

 
       20,881,991  
    

 

 

 
Jersey, Channel Islands - 0.1%  

Ferguson PLC

    9,508        771,714  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 0.0% (F)  

ArcelorMittal

    14,388        421,906  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 0.4%  

Akzo Nobel NV

    7,143        611,606  

ASML Holding NV

    3,535        700,551  

Heineken NV

    2,894        290,714  

ING Groep NV

    67,320        969,182  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    5,150        219,066  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A

    29,064        1,008,411  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B

    37,617        1,347,119  
    

 

 

 
       5,146,649  
    

 

 

 
Panama - 0.0% (F)  

Copa Holdings SA, Class A

    2,117        200,311  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Puerto Rico - 0.0% (F)  

EVERTEC, Inc. (K)

      1,000        $   21,850  

First BanCorp (K)

    16,025        122,591  
    

 

 

 
       144,441  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 0.1%  

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

    25,300        494,116  

Kulicke & Soffa Industries, Inc.

    6,375        151,852  

United Overseas Bank, Ltd.

    29,500        579,391  
    

 

 

 
       1,225,359  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 0.2%  

Banco Santander SA

    76,245        408,867  

Bankia SA (G)

    109,348        409,523  

Iberdrola SA

    136,982        1,059,625  

Industria de Diseno Textil SA

    25,225        861,934  

Telefonica SA

    36,022        306,202  
    

 

 

 
       3,046,151  
    

 

 

 
Sweden - 0.1%  

Lundin Petroleum AB

    12,196        389,025  

Spotify Technology SA (K)

    1,940        326,386  

Svenska Handelsbanken AB, A Shares

    58,184        646,752  
    

 

 

 
       1,362,163  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 0.5%  

Chubb, Ltd.

    474        60,207  

Cie Financiere Richemont SA

    5,980        507,965  

Credit Suisse Group AG (K)

    27,446        414,337  

LafargeHolcim, Ltd. (K)

    11,551        564,311  

Nestle SA

    21,353        1,658,130  

Novartis AG

    11,910        905,367  

Roche Holding AG

    6,698        1,491,713  

Swiss Re AG

    5,964        516,121  

Transocean, Ltd. (G) (K)

    7,275        97,776  

UBS Group AG (K)

    30,875        477,794  

Zurich Insurance Group AG

    886        263,125  
    

 

 

 
       6,956,846  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 0.9%  

3i Group PLC

    39,535        469,900  

Aptiv PLC

    2,104        192,790  

AstraZeneca PLC

    3,908        270,928  

Aviva PLC

    73,760        490,618  

Avon Products, Inc. (K)

    7,325        11,866  

Barratt Developments PLC

    33,384        227,078  

BP PLC

    107,429        819,911  

British American Tobacco PLC

    24,814        1,254,259  

Burberry Group PLC

    18,405        524,664  

Cardtronics PLC, Class A (K)

    700        16,926  

Delphi Technologies PLC

    3,904        177,476  

Diageo PLC

    2,696        96,850  

Dixons Carphone PLC

    61,740        152,044  

Ensco PLC, Class A

    2,775        20,146  

GlaxoSmithKline PLC

    42,854        865,203  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    103,350        969,368  

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC

    7,515        468,126  

ITV PLC

    233,788        536,863  

Janus Henderson Group PLC

    2,290        70,372  

LivaNova PLC (K)

    700        69,874  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    480,240        399,609  

Michael Kors Holdings, Ltd. (K)

    4,370        291,042  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    36


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United Kingdom (continued)  

Noble Corp. PLC (K)

      3,675        $   23,263  

Prudential PLC

      39,399          901,885  

Rio Tinto PLC

    3,439        190,667  

Rio Tinto, Ltd.

    12,884        795,584  

Standard Chartered PLC

    72,311        660,965  

STERIS PLC

    1,375        144,389  

Taylor Wimpey PLC

    123,863        292,445  

Travelport Worldwide, Ltd.

    2,050        38,007  

Unilever NV, CVA

    9,327        520,478  

Vodafone Group PLC

    378,844        919,062  

Whitbread PLC

    3,700        193,321  
    

 

 

 
       13,075,979  
    

 

 

 
United States - 15.6%  

8x8, Inc. (K)

    1,675        33,584  

A. Schulman, Inc.

    2,275        101,237  

Aaron’s, Inc.

    2,900        126,005  

Abbott Laboratories

    8,364        510,120  

AbbVie, Inc.

    9,723        900,836  

Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Class A

    1,050        25,704  

ABM Industries, Inc.

    875        25,533  

Acadia Healthcare Co., Inc. (K)

    8,378        342,744  

ACI Worldwide, Inc. (K)

    1,900        46,873  

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. (K)

    2,175        62,422  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    724        55,256  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (K)

    4,715        1,149,564  

Adtalem Global Education, Inc. (K)

    925        44,493  

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. (K)

    675        39,211  

AdvanSix, Inc. (K)

    425        15,568  

AECOM (K)

    4,750        156,892  

Aegion Corp. (K)

    3,475        89,481  

Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. (K)

    950        28,016  

AGCO Corp.

    2,350        142,692  

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

    1,396        86,329  

Agree Realty Corp., REIT

    1,625        85,751  

AK Steel Holding Corp. (G) (K)

    5,125        22,243  

Akorn, Inc. (K)

    6,025        99,955  

Alamo Group, Inc.

    125        11,295  

Alcoa Corp. (K)

    6,632        310,908  

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc.

    1,046        24,581  

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (K)

    947        117,570  

Alleghany Corp.

    300        172,491  

Allergan PLC

    2,013        335,607  

ALLETE, Inc.

    1,175        90,957  

Alliance Data Systems Corp.

    428        99,810  

Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc. (K)

    3,075        36,900  

Allstate Corp.

    3,520        321,270  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (K)

    1,733        1,956,886  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (K)

    4,035        4,501,648  

Altria Group, Inc.

    4,078        231,590  

AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (K)

    3,850        75,075  

Amazon.com, Inc. (K)

    3,739        6,355,552  

AMC Networks, Inc., Class A (K)

    1,325        82,415  

American Assets Trust, Inc., REIT

    3,650        139,758  

American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (K)

    1,800        28,008  

American Campus Communities, Inc., REIT

    3,300        141,504  

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

    17,625        409,781  

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

    4,141        286,764  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

American Equity Investment Life Holding Co.

      1,425        $   51,300  

American Express Co.

    1,157        113,386  

American Financial Group, Inc.

      2,225          238,809  

American International Group, Inc.

    13,450        713,119  

American Public Education, Inc. (K)

    300        12,630  

American States Water Co.

    600        34,296  

American Tower Corp., REIT

    2,760        397,909  

American Vanguard Corp.

    450        10,328  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    1,450        202,826  

Ameris Bancorp

    500        26,675  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    3,667        312,685  

Amgen, Inc.

    5,383        993,648  

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. (K)

    775        45,415  

Amphenol Corp., Class A

    3,954        344,591  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    9,657        926,299  

Andeavor

    1,452        190,473  

AngioDynamics, Inc. (K)

    1,675        37,252  

Anixter International, Inc. (K)

    475        30,068  

Anthem, Inc.

    3,590        854,528  

Apergy Corp. (K)

    1,300        54,275  

Apple, Inc.

    39,493        7,310,549  

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.

    625        43,844  

Applied Materials, Inc.

    23,450        1,083,155  

AptarGroup, Inc.

    275        25,680  

ArcBest Corp.

    2,450        111,965  

Archer-Daniels-Midland Co.

    6,700        307,061  

Archrock, Inc.

    2,175        26,100  

Arista Networks, Inc. (K)

    1,239        319,030  

Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc., REIT

    8,050        119,945  

ARRIS International PLC (K)

    6,175        150,948  

Arrow Electronics, Inc. (K)

    3,325        250,306  

Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. (K)

    1,725        118,249  

ASGN, Inc. (K)

    775        60,597  

Ashland Global Holdings, Inc.

    525        41,045  

Associated Banc-Corp.

    5,025        137,182  

AT&T, Inc.

    29,957        961,919  

Atmos Energy Corp.

    3,175        286,194  

ATN International, Inc.

    175        9,235  

AutoNation, Inc. (K)

    1,025        49,794  

AutoZone, Inc. (K)

    697        467,638  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc., REIT

    2,388        410,473  

Avis Budget Group, Inc. (K)

    7,400        240,500  

Avista Corp.

    1,375        72,407  

Avnet, Inc.

    4,525        194,077  

BancorpSouth Bank

    1,700        56,015  

Bank of America Corp.

    97,216        2,740,519  

Bank of Hawaii Corp.

    1,025        85,505  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    5,895        317,917  

Bank of the Ozarks, Inc. (K)

    850        38,284  

Banner Corp.

    500        30,065  

Barnes Group, Inc.

    775        45,648  

Baxter International, Inc.

    7,850        579,644  

BB&T Corp.

    5,432        273,990  

Becton Dickinson and Co.

    2,462        589,797  

Bel Fuse, Inc., Class B

    1,175        24,558  

Belden, Inc. (G)

    625        38,200  

Bemis Co., Inc.

    400        16,884  

Benchmark Electronics, Inc.

    3,750        109,312  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    37


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (K)

      7,531        $   1,405,661  

Best Buy Co., Inc.

    8,001        596,715  

Big Lots, Inc. (G)

    900        37,602  

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A (K)

      325          93,775  

Biogen, Inc. (K)

    1,433        415,914  

BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.

    275        16,500  

BlackRock, Inc.

    903        450,633  

Blucora, Inc. (K)

    625        23,125  

Boeing Co.

    6,291        2,110,693  

BofI Holding, Inc. (K)

    675        27,614  

Boise Cascade Co.

    1,950        87,165  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (K)

    322        652,723  

Boston Private Financial Holdings, Inc.

    1,200        19,080  

Boston Scientific Corp. (K)

    20,098        657,205  

Bottomline Technologies de, Inc. (K)

    550        27,407  

Boyd Gaming Corp.

    525        18,197  

Briggs & Stratton Corp.

    3,200        56,352  

Brink’s Co.

    800        63,800  

Brinker International, Inc. (G)

    2,450        116,620  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    8,867        490,700  

Brixmor Property Group, Inc., REIT

    2,381        41,501  

Broadcom, Inc.

    5,487        1,331,366  

Brookline Bancorp, Inc.

    1,125        20,925  

Brown & Brown, Inc.

    2,750        76,257  

Brunswick Corp.

    1,425        91,884  

C&J Energy Services, Inc. (K)

    1,050        24,780  

Cabot Corp.

    1,975        121,996  

Cabot Microelectronics Corp.

    350        37,646  

CACI International, Inc., Class A (K)

    1,050        176,977  

Caleres, Inc.

    1,850        63,621  

Callaway Golf Co.

    1,625        30,826  

Camden Property Trust, REIT

    1,375        125,304  

Cantel Medical Corp.

    575        56,557  

Capella Education Co.

    225        22,208  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    7,031        646,149  

Carlisle Cos., Inc.

    1,025        111,018  

Carpenter Technology Corp.

    300        15,771  

Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc. (K)

    1,350        37,598  

Cars.com, Inc. (K)

    575        16,324  

Carter’s, Inc.

    775        84,002  

Casey’s General Stores, Inc.

    125        13,135  

Catalent, Inc. (K)

    2,175        91,111  

Caterpillar, Inc.

    8,027        1,089,023  

Cathay General Bancorp

    1,250        50,612  

Cato Corp., Class A

    1,150        28,313  

Cavium, Inc. (K)

    4,916        425,234  

CBRE Group, Inc., Class A (K)

    15,133        722,449  

CDK Global, Inc.

    1,200        78,060  

Celanese Corp., Series A

    2,095        232,671  

Celgene Corp. (K)

    3,287        261,054  

Centene Corp. (K)

    4,730        582,783  

Central Garden & Pet Co. (K)

    625        27,175  

Central Garden & Pet Co., Class A (K)

    3,200        129,504  

Century Aluminum Co. (K)

    750        11,813  

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

    1,400        62,160  

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (K)

    875        98,227  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    23,450        1,198,295  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A (K)

      2,724        $   798,704  

Chatham Lodging Trust, REIT

    675        14,324  

Cheesecake Factory, Inc.

    775        42,672  

Chemed Corp.

    275        88,498  

Chemours Co.

    4,325        191,857  

Chesapeake Energy Corp. (G) (K)

      11,925          62,487  

Chesapeake Lodging Trust, REIT

    950        30,058  

Chevron Corp.

    11,494        1,453,186  

Chico’s FAS, Inc.

    3,325        27,066  

Children’s Place, Inc. (G)

    375        45,300  

Chimera Investment Corp., REIT

    2,320        42,410  

Ciena Corp. (K)

    2,500        66,275  

Cigna Corp.

    3,589        609,951  

Cinemark Holdings, Inc.

    325        11,401  

Cirrus Logic, Inc. (K)

    975        37,372  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    14,189        610,553  

Citigroup, Inc.

    31,259        2,091,852  

Citrix Systems, Inc. (K)

    1,400        146,776  

CME Group, Inc.

    603        98,844  

CNO Financial Group, Inc.

    2,750        52,360  

CNX Resources Corp. (K)

    3,250        57,785  

Coca-Cola Co.

    14,501        636,014  

Cognex Corp.

    350        15,614  

Coherent, Inc. (K)

    375        58,657  

Cohu, Inc.

    2,625        64,339  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    3,789        245,565  

Columbia Banking System, Inc.

    975        39,878  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    41,434        1,359,450  

Comerica, Inc.

    6,446        586,070  

Comfort Systems USA, Inc.

    1,575        72,135  

Commerce Bancshares, Inc.

    88        5,694  

Commercial Metals Co.

    1,725        36,415  

Community Bank System, Inc.

    525        31,012  

Community Health Systems, Inc. (G) (K)

    2,000        6,640  

CommVault Systems, Inc. (K)

    800        52,680  

Comtech Telecommunications Corp.

    375        11,955  

Concho Resources, Inc. (G) (K)

    5,926        819,862  

CONMED Corp.

    400        29,280  

ConocoPhillips

    6,270        436,517  

CONSOL Energy, Inc. (K)

    418        16,030  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    1,131        247,542  

Convergys Corp.

    1,475        36,049  

Cooper-Standard Holdings, Inc. (K)

    1,225        160,071  

Copart, Inc. (K)

    10,652        602,477  

Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc.

    250        5,675  

CoreCivic, Inc., REIT

    2,900        69,281  

CoreLogic, Inc. (K)

    1,350        70,065  

CoreSite Realty Corp., REIT

    750        83,115  

Corning, Inc.

    13,451        370,037  

Corporate Office Properties Trust, REIT

    4,275        123,932  

Cousins Properties, Inc., REIT

    4,292        41,589  

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (G)

    450        70,294  

Crane Co.

    2,425        194,315  

Credit Acceptance Corp. (G) (K)

    812        286,961  

Cree, Inc. (K)

    275        11,432  

Crocs, Inc. (K)

    1,200        21,132  

Cross Country Healthcare, Inc. (K)

    4,050        45,563  

Crown Holdings, Inc. (K)

    3,194        142,963  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    38


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

CSG Systems International, Inc.

      1,075        $   43,935  

Cullen / Frost Bankers, Inc.

    1,000        108,240  

Cummins, Inc.

    2,372        315,476  

Curtiss-Wright Corp.

    675        80,338  

CVS Health Corp.

    4,229        272,136  

Cypress Semiconductor Corp.

    5,925        92,311  

CyrusOne, Inc., REIT

      1,250          72,950  

Dana, Inc.

    7,725        155,968  

Danaher Corp.

    2,553        251,930  

Darling Ingredients, Inc. (K)

    2,500        49,700  

DCT Industrial Trust, Inc., REIT

    1,050        70,066  

Dean Foods Co.

    5,425        57,017  

Deckers Outdoor Corp. (K)

    975        110,068  

Deere & Co.

    6,429        898,774  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    19,275        954,883  

Denbury Resources, Inc. (K)

    7,775        37,398  

Depomed, Inc. (K)

    10,800        72,036  

DexCom, Inc. (K)

    1,710        162,416  

Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    3,156        415,235  

DiamondRock Hospitality Co., REIT

    9,075        111,441  

Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.

    1,350        47,587  

Digi International, Inc. (K)

    2,150        28,380  

Digital Realty Trust, Inc., REIT

    665        74,201  

Dillard’s, Inc., Class A (G)

    325        30,713  

Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.

    1,175        22,913  

Dine Brands Global, Inc.

    275        20,570  

Diplomat Pharmacy, Inc. (K)

    875        22,365  

Discovery, Inc., Class A (K)

    2,065        56,787  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (K)

    5,576        187,409  

DocuSign, Inc. (K)

    1,310        69,364  

Dollar General Corp.

    4,056        399,922  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (K)

    5,518        469,030  

Domino’s Pizza, Inc.

    700        197,519  

Domtar Corp.

    3,125        149,187  

Donnelley Financial Solutions, Inc. (K)

    412        7,156  

Douglas Emmett, Inc., REIT

    2,825        113,508  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    18,540        1,222,157  

DSW, Inc., Class A

    1,075        27,757  

Dun & Bradstreet Corp.

    600        73,590  

DXC Technology Co.

    3,780        304,706  

DXP Enterprises, Inc. (K)

    200        7,640  

Dycom Industries, Inc. (K)

    500        47,255  

E.I. Paso Electric Co.

    1,300        76,830  

Eagle Materials, Inc.

    2,961        310,816  

East West Bancorp, Inc.

    12,011        783,117  

Eastman Chemical Co.

    5,039        503,698  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    7,844        586,261  

Eaton Vance Corp.

    1,975        103,075  

eBay, Inc. (K)

    20,430        740,792  

Echo Global Logistics, Inc. (K)

    450        13,163  

Electro Scientific Industries, Inc. (G) (K)

    650        10,251  

Electronic Arts, Inc. (K)

    4,492        633,462  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    6,959        593,811  

EMCOR Group, Inc.

    3,765        286,818  

Emergent BioSolutions, Inc. (K)

    275        13,885  

Encompass Health Corp.

    3,625        245,485  

Encore Wire Corp.

    375        17,794  

Energen Corp. (K)

    1,650        120,153  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Energizer Holdings, Inc.

      3,955        $   249,007  

EnerSys

    2,225        166,074  

Engility Holdings, Inc. (K)

    300        9,192  

Enova International, Inc. (K)

    550        20,103  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    10,906        1,357,034  

EPR Properties, REIT

    350        22,677  

EQT Corp.

    4,033        222,541  

Equinix, Inc., REIT

    379        162,928  

Equity Residential, REIT

    5,483        349,212  

Era Group, Inc. (K)

    1,400        18,130  

Essendant, Inc.

    2,675        35,364  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    2,587        369,139  

Evercore, Inc., Class A

    1,675        176,629  

Evolent Health, Inc., Class A (G) (K)

    10,852        228,435  

Exact Sciences Corp. (K)

    3,587        214,467  

Exelixis, Inc. (K)

    6,930        149,134  

Exelon Corp.

    10,888        463,829  

ExlService Holdings, Inc. (K)

    1,475        83,500  

Expedia Group, Inc.

    955        114,781  

Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.

    300        21,930  

Express Scripts Holding Co. (K)

    570        44,010  

Express, Inc. (K)

    1,125        10,294  

Exterran Corp. (K)

    3,712        92,948  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    8,956        740,930  

F5 Networks, Inc. (K)

    1,320        227,634  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (K)

    18,633        3,620,765  

FactSet Research Systems, Inc.

    625        123,812  

Fair Isaac Corp. (K)

    550        106,326  

Fastenal Co.

    7,176        345,381  

Federal Realty Investment Trust, REIT

    1,300        164,515  

Federal Signal Corp.

    925        21,543  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    5,089        539,587  

Fifth Third Bancorp

    5,628        161,524  

Financial Engines, Inc.

    1,100        49,390  

First American Financial Corp.

    6,570        339,800  

First Financial Bancorp

    775        23,754  

First Horizon National Corp.

    11,175        199,362  

First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc., REIT

    1,800        60,012  

First Midwest Bancorp, Inc.

    5,800        147,726  

First Republic Bank

    2,342        226,682  

First Solar, Inc. (K)

    5,290        278,571  

FirstCash, Inc.

    1,756        157,777  

Flowers Foods, Inc.

    4,050        84,361  

Ford Motor Co.

    43,903        486,006  

Fortinet, Inc. (K)

    6,750        421,402  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

    4,591        246,491  

Fossil Group, Inc. (K)

    875        23,511  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    22,824        393,942  

Frontier Communications Corp. (G)

    1,150        6,164  

FTD Cos., Inc. (K)

    300        1,392  

FTI Consulting, Inc. (K)

    700        42,336  

Fulton Financial Corp.

    3,225        53,212  

FutureFuel Corp.

    1,675        23,467  

GameStop Corp., Class A (G)

    1,625        23,676  

Gannett Co., Inc.

    5,475        58,582  

Gartner, Inc. (K)

    3,000        398,700  

General Dynamics Corp.

    3,007        560,535  

General Mills, Inc.

    1,856        82,147  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    39


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

General Motors Co.

      9,010        $   354,994  

Genesco, Inc. (K)

    200        7,940  

Gentex Corp.

    4,675        107,618  

Geo Group, Inc., REIT

    4,987        137,342  

Getty Realty Corp., REIT

    4,077        114,849  

Gibraltar Industries, Inc. (K)

    500        18,750  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    15,394        1,090,511  

Global Payments, Inc.

    5,379        599,705  

Globus Medical, Inc., Class A (K)

    1,225        61,813  

GoDaddy, Inc., Class A (K)

    7,804        550,962  

Graham Holdings Co., Class B

    75        43,958  

Granite Construction, Inc.

    650        36,179  

Green Dot Corp., Class A (K)

    2,200        161,458  

Greenbrier Cos., Inc.

    2,250        118,687  

Greif, Inc., Class A

    375        19,834  

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

    325        20,475  

Guidewire Software, Inc. (K)

    2,673        237,309  

Gulfport Energy Corp. (K)

    2,375        29,854  

H&R Block, Inc.

    1,746        39,774  

Haemonetics Corp. (K)

    950        85,196  

Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (K)

    1,075        32,035  

Hancock Whitney Corp.

    3,375        157,444  

Hanmi Financial Corp.

    2,200        62,370  

Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

    2,075        248,087  

Harris Corp.

    471        68,078  

Harsco Corp. (K)

    1,350        29,835  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    7,504        383,680  

Haverty Furniture Cos., Inc.

    275        5,940  

Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc.

    3,000        102,900  

Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.

    850        30,558  

Hawkins, Inc.

    150        5,303  

HCA Healthcare, Inc.

    1,550        159,030  

HCI Group, Inc.

    100        4,157  

HealthStream, Inc.

    475        12,972  

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

    2,400        84,000  

Helen of Troy, Ltd. (K)

    1,000        98,450  

Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc. (K)

    1,350        11,246  

Herbalife Nutrition, Ltd. (K)

    5,950        319,634  

Herman Miller, Inc.

    1,575        53,392  

Hersha Hospitality Trust, REIT

    600        12,870  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

    25,893        378,297  

HFF, Inc., Class A

    575        19,751  

HighPoint Resources Corp. (K)

    2,025        12,312  

Highwoods Properties, Inc., REIT

    4,225        214,334  

Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc.

    2,525        220,533  

Hillenbrand, Inc.

    1,075        50,686  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    13,839        1,095,495  

HNI Corp.

    650        24,180  

HollyFrontier Corp.

    4,470        305,882  

Home BancShares, Inc.

    1,300        29,328  

Home Depot, Inc.

    6,357        1,240,251  

Honeywell International, Inc.

    7,457        1,074,181  

Hospitality Properties Trust, REIT

    6,350        181,673  

HP, Inc.

    37,089        841,549  

Hub Group, Inc., Class A (K)

    2,800        139,440  

Hubbell, Inc.

    825        87,235  

Humana, Inc.

    2,865        852,710  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.

    13,440        198,374  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Huntsman Corp.

      8,630        $   251,996  

Hyatt Hotels Corp., Class A

    2,800        216,020  

IAC/InterActiveCorp (K)

    270        41,172  

ICU Medical, Inc. (K)

    250        73,412  

IDACORP, Inc.

    1,350        124,524  

IDEX Corp.

    975        133,068  

Illumina, Inc. (K)

    2,342        654,097  

Independent Bank Corp.

    450        35,280  

Ingersoll-Rand PLC

    7,801        699,984  

Ingevity Corp. (K)

    950        76,817  

Ingredion, Inc.

    3,965        438,925  

Innophos Holdings, Inc.

    1,850        88,060  

Innospec, Inc.

    375        28,706  

Inogen, Inc. (K)

    100        18,633  

Insight Enterprises, Inc. (K)

    1,100        53,823  

Insperity, Inc.

    1,625        154,781  

Integer Holdings Corp. (K)

    2,025        130,916  

Integrated Device Technology, Inc. (K)

    2,150        68,542  

Intel Corp.

    4,052        201,425  

Interactive Brokers Group, Inc., Class A

    1,175        75,682  

Intercept Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (G) (K)

    1,932        162,114  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    5,173        380,474  

InterDigital, Inc.

    500        40,450  

Interface, Inc.

    1,025        23,524  

International Business Machines Corp.

    1,941        271,158  

INTL. FCStone, Inc. (K)

    250        12,928  

Intuit, Inc.

    1,979        404,320  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (K)

    1,179        564,128  

Investment Technology Group, Inc.

    625        13,075  

ITT, Inc.

    3,200        167,264  

J&J Snack Foods Corp.

    225        34,306  

j2 Global, Inc.

    775        67,123  

Jabil, Inc.

    6,000        165,960  

Jack in the Box, Inc.

    375        31,920  

JBG Smith Properties, REIT

    1,525        55,617  

JetBlue Airways Corp. (K)

    6,150        116,727  

John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

    125        9,306  

John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Class A

    1,375        85,800  

Johnson & Johnson

    8,912        1,081,382  

Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc.

    1,425        236,536  

Kaiser Aluminum Corp.

    275        28,630  

Kaman Corp.

    2,000        139,380  

KapStone Paper and Packaging Corp.

    700        24,150  

KB Home

    5,650        153,906  

KBR, Inc.

    7,350        131,712  

Kelly Services, Inc., Class A

    1,050        23,573  

Kemet Corp. (K)

    3,150        76,072  

Kemper Corp.

    775        58,629  

Kennametal, Inc.

    1,175        42,183  

KeyCorp

    14,641        286,085  

Keysight Technologies, Inc. (K)

    4,325        255,305  

Kilroy Realty Corp., REIT

    1,450        109,678  

Kindred Healthcare, Inc. (K)

    1,150        10,350  

Kirby Corp. (K)

    925        77,330  

Kite Realty Group Trust, REIT

    3,175        54,229  

KLX, Inc. (K)

    825        59,317  

Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, Inc.

    1,700        64,957  

Kohl’s Corp.

    4,410        321,489  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    40


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Koppers Holdings, Inc. (K)

      1,775        $   68,071  

Korn/Ferry International

    2,750        170,307  

Kraton Corp. (K)

    975        44,987  

La-Z-Boy, Inc.

    725        22,185  

Lam Research Corp.

    3,115        538,428  

Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc.

    2,125        145,584  

Landstar System, Inc.

    1,275        139,230  

Lantheus Holdings, Inc. (K)

    3,800        55,290  

Las Vegas Sands Corp.

    3,100        236,716  

LaSalle Hotel Properties, REIT

    2,450        83,863  

LegacyTexas Financial Group, Inc.

    575        22,437  

Legg Mason, Inc.

    1,375        47,754  

Leidos Holdings, Inc.

    3,650        215,350  

Lennar Corp., Class A

    5,300        278,250  

Lennox International, Inc.

    3,523        705,128  

Liberty Property Trust, REIT

    1,900        84,227  

Life Storage, Inc., REIT

    775        75,415  

LifePoint Health, Inc. (K)

    650        31,720  

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.

    1,075        94,342  

Lincoln National Corp.

    6,898        429,400  

Lithia Motors, Inc., Class A

    400        37,828  

Littelfuse, Inc.

    325        74,158  

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (K)

    1,325        64,355  

LKQ Corp. (K)

    10,393        331,537  

LogMeIn, Inc.

    725        74,856  

Louisiana-Pacific Corp.

    3,950        107,519  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    3,547        338,987  

LSC Communications, Inc.

    3,312        51,866  

Lumentum Holdings, Inc. (K)

    1,075        62,242  

Lydall, Inc. (K)

    250        10,913  

Magellan Health, Inc. (K)

    1,050        100,747  

ManpowerGroup, Inc.

    2,175        187,180  

ManTech International Corp., Class A

    375        20,115  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.

    12,617        885,209  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    1,585        129,922  

Masco Corp.

    9,876        369,560  

Masimo Corp. (K)

    1,225        119,621  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    6,951        1,366,011  

Matador Resources Co. (K)

    850        25,543  

Materion Corp.

    300        16,245  

Matrix Service Co. (K)

    575        10,551  

MAXIMUS, Inc.

    375        23,291  

MB Financial, Inc.

    850        39,695  

McDermott International, Inc. (K)

    5,124        100,687  

MDC Holdings, Inc.

    760        23,385  

MDU Resources Group, Inc.

    3,100        88,908  

Medical Properties Trust, Inc., REIT

    2,925        41,067  

Medicines Co. (G) (K)

    4,150        152,305  

Medifast, Inc.

    200        32,032  

MEDNAX, Inc. (K)

    3,300        142,824  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    11,343        688,520  

Meredith Corp. (G)

    1,275        65,025  

Methode Electronics, Inc.

    2,600        104,780  

MetLife, Inc.

    10,030        437,308  

Michaels Cos., Inc. (K)

    1,650        31,631  

Microchip Technology, Inc. (G)

    3,847        349,885  

Micron Technology, Inc. (K)

    2,576        135,085  

Microsoft Corp.

    69,256        6,829,334  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

MicroStrategy, Inc., Class A (K)

      625        $   79,844  

Minerals Technologies, Inc.

    600        45,210  

MKS Instruments, Inc.

    1,275        122,017  

Molina Healthcare, Inc. (K)

    4,390        429,957  

Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B

    9,364        637,127  

Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (K)

    5,600        114,520  

Mondelez International, Inc., Class A

    20,566        843,206  

Monotype Imaging Holdings, Inc.

    1,550        31,465  

Moody’s Corp.

    1,510        257,546  

Moog, Inc., Class A

    900        70,164  

Morgan Stanley

    20,678        980,137  

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

    436        50,737  

Movado Group, Inc.

    250        12,075  

MSA Safety, Inc.

    475        45,762  

MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc., Class A

    725        61,516  

MSCI, Inc.

    1,850        306,045  

Murphy Oil Corp.

    3,050        102,998  

Murphy USA, Inc. (K)

    375        27,859  

Mylan NV (K)

    3,465        125,225  

MYR Group, Inc. (K)

    2,875        101,947  

Myriad Genetics, Inc. (K)

    1,075        40,173  

Nanometrics, Inc. (K)

    1,750        61,967  

Nasdaq, Inc.

    3,878        353,945  

National Fuel Gas Co.

    1,675        88,708  

National Instruments Corp.

    1,800        75,564  

National Storage Affiliates Trust, REIT

    1,650        50,853  

Natus Medical, Inc. (K)

    525        18,113  

Nautilus, Inc. (K)

    625        9,813  

Navigant Consulting, Inc. (K)

    750        16,605  

Navigators Group, Inc.

    225        12,825  

NBT Bancorp, Inc.

    525        20,029  

NCR Corp. (K)

    4,375        131,162  

NetApp, Inc.

    3,910        307,052  

Netflix, Inc. (K)

    3,224        1,261,970  

NETGEAR, Inc. (K)

    800        50,000  

New Jersey Resources Corp.

    1,475        66,006  

New Media Investment Group, Inc.

    1,275        23,562  

Newmont Mining Corp.

    7,201        271,550  

Newpark Resources, Inc. (K)

    1,450        15,733  

News Corp., Class A

    15,100        234,050  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    7,891        1,318,034  

NIC, Inc.

    875        13,606  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    7,665        610,747  

Nordson Corp.

    1,702        218,554  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    5,116        771,851  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    1,774        545,860  

NorthWestern Corp.

    700        40,075  

NOW, Inc. (K)

    2,150        28,660  

NRG Energy, Inc.

    9,180        281,826  

Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc., Class A

    995        77,799  

Nutrisystem, Inc.

    375        14,438  

NuVasive, Inc. (K)

    775        40,393  

NVIDIA Corp.

    7,062        1,672,988  

NVR, Inc. (K)

    65        193,073  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (K)

    1,502        410,902  

Oasis Petroleum, Inc. (K)

    4,425        57,392  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    7,024        587,768  

Oceaneering International, Inc. (K)

    1,725        43,919  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    41


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Office Depot, Inc.

      16,725        $   42,649  

OGE Energy Corp.

    5,900        207,739  

Oil States International, Inc. (K)

    1,025        32,903  

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

    3,612        538,044  

Old Republic International Corp.

    7,950        158,284  

ONEOK, Inc.

    2,853        199,225  

Opus Bank

    300        8,610  

Oracle Corp.

    18,800        828,328  

OraSure Technologies, Inc. (K)

    875        14,411  

Orion Group Holdings, Inc. (K)

    2,525        20,857  

Orthofix International NV (K)

    825        46,877  

Oshkosh Corp.

    7,446        523,603  

Owens & Minor, Inc.

    3,600        60,156  

Owens-Illinois, Inc. (K)

    6,625        111,366  

Oxford Industries, Inc.

    200        16,596  

PACCAR, Inc.

    4,463        276,527  

PacWest Bancorp

    3,650        180,383  

Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (K)

    3,590        737,637  

Papa John’s International, Inc. (G)

    250        12,680  

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. (K)

    3,225        56,050  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    1,886        293,933  

Patterson Cos., Inc. (G)

    3,225        73,111  

Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc.

    3,675        66,150  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (K)

    8,501        707,878  

PBF Energy, Inc., Class A

    11,220        470,455  

PDC Energy, Inc. (K)

    1,125        68,006  

Peabody Energy Corp.

    2,010        91,415  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    14,894        1,621,510  

Perficient, Inc. (K)

    2,500        65,925  

Perry Ellis International, Inc. (K)

    1,550        42,114  

Perspecta, Inc.

    6,040        124,122  

Pfizer, Inc.

    35,050        1,271,614  

PG&E Corp. (K)

    2,075        88,312  

PGT Innovations, Inc. (K)

    700        14,595  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    10,235        826,374  

Photronics, Inc. (K)

    950        7,576  

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. (K)

    7,645        153,894  

Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc.

    1,175        72,086  

Pioneer Energy Services Corp. (K)

    1,125        6,581  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    4,040        764,530  

Piper Jaffray Cos.

    250        19,213  

Pitney Bowes, Inc.

    2,825        24,210  

Plantronics, Inc.

    650        49,562  

Plexus Corp. (K)

    2,175        129,499  

PNM Resources, Inc.

    1,325        51,542  

Polaris Industries, Inc.

    925        113,016  

PolyOne Corp.

    1,325        57,266  

Pool Corp.

    675        102,262  

Post Holdings, Inc. (K)

    4,795        412,466  

PotlatchDeltic Corp.

    1,875        95,344  

Primerica, Inc.

    700        69,720  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    1,107        58,616  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    5,205        406,302  

Progress Software Corp.

    825        32,027  

Progressive Corp.

    13,736        812,484  

Prologis, Inc., REIT

    2,126        139,657  

Provident Financial Services, Inc.

    1,500        41,295  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    2,030        189,825  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

PS Business Parks, Inc., REIT

      1,150        $   147,775  

PTC, Inc. (K)

    2,175        204,037  

Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.

    9,018        488,235  

Public Storage, REIT

    1,969        446,687  

PulteGroup, Inc.

    10,300        296,125  

PVH Corp.

    2,784        416,820  

QEP Resources, Inc. (K)

    3,775        46,282  

Quality Systems, Inc. (K)

    800        15,600  

Qualys, Inc. (K)

    500        42,150  

QuinStreet, Inc. (K)

    2,125        26,988  

R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co.

    3,008        17,326  

Ralph Lauren Corp.

    765        96,176  

Ramco-Gershenson Properties Trust, REIT

    1,375        18,164  

Raven Industries, Inc.

    500        19,225  

Rayonier Advanced Materials, Inc.

    1,950        33,326  

Rayonier, Inc., REIT

    5,025        194,417  

Red Hat, Inc. (K)

    2,111        283,655  

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (K)

    225        10,485  

Regal Beloit Corp.

    2,100        171,780  

Regions Financial Corp.

    16,100        286,258  

Reinsurance Group of America, Inc.

    950        126,806  

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.

    2,475        216,661  

Resources Connection, Inc.

    1,875        31,688  

Revance Therapeutics, Inc. (K)

    5,942        163,108  

REX American Resources Corp. (K)

    100        8,097  

RH (K)

    325        45,403  

Robert Half International, Inc.

    4,500        292,950  

Rogers Corp. (K)

    250        27,865  

Ross Stores, Inc.

    9,396        796,311  

Rowan Cos. PLC, Class A (K)

    1,875        30,413  

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.

    971        100,596  

Royal Gold, Inc.

    325        30,173  

RPM International, Inc.

    975        56,862  

Rudolph Technologies, Inc. (K)

    3,025        89,540  

Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc.

    450        12,623  

S&P Global, Inc.

    6,464        1,317,945  

Sabra Health Care REIT, Inc.

    2,516        54,673  

Sabre Corp.

    3,200        78,848  

Safety Insurance Group, Inc.

    200        17,080  

Sage Therapeutics, Inc. (K)

    980        153,399  

Saia, Inc. (K)

    350        28,298  

SailPoint Technologies Holding, Inc. (K)

    4,520        110,921  

salesforce.com, Inc. (K)

    12,582        1,716,185  

Sally Beauty Holdings, Inc. (G) (K)

    2,100        33,663  

Sanderson Farms, Inc.

    300        31,545  

Sanmina Corp. (K)

    2,375        69,587  

Saul Centers, Inc., REIT

    175        9,377  

SBA Communications Corp., REIT (K)

    1,490        246,029  

ScanSource, Inc. (K)

    200        8,060  

Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc.

    2,775        121,323  

Science Applications International Corp.

    1,925        155,790  

Scientific Games Corp., Class A (K)

    875        43,006  

Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. (G)

    675        56,133  

SEACOR Holdings, Inc. (K)

    250        14,318  

SEI Investments Co.

    2,150        134,418  

Select Medical Holdings Corp. (K)

    6,475        117,521  

Selective Insurance Group, Inc.

    850        46,750  

Semtech Corp. (K)

    500        23,525  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    42


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Seneca Foods Corp., Class A (K)

      475        $   12,825  

Senior Housing Properties Trust, REIT

    6,825        123,464  

ServiceNow, Inc. (K)

    2,908        501,543  

Shire PLC

    11,608        653,384  

Shutterfly, Inc. (K)

    1,375        123,791  

Signature Bank (K)

    700        89,516  

Signet Jewelers, Ltd.

    1,025        57,144  

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

    1,200        32,196  

Sirius XM Holdings, Inc. (G)

    23,955        162,175  

Skechers U.S.A., Inc., Class A (K)

    2,175        65,272  

SkyWest, Inc.

    1,350        70,065  

Sleep Number Corp. (K)

    775        22,491  

SLM Corp. (K)

    6,900        79,005  

SM Energy Co.

    1,700        43,673  

Snap-on, Inc.

    1,998        321,119  

Sonoco Products Co.

    950        49,875  

Sotheby’s (K)

    225        12,227  

Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc. (K)

    775        59,109  

Southwestern Energy Co. (K)

    7,975        42,268  

Spark Therapeutics, Inc. (G) (K)

    2,962        245,135  

SpartanNash Co.

    2,625        66,990  

Spire, Inc.

    100        7,065  

Splunk, Inc. (K)

    3,391        336,082  

Spok Holdings, Inc.

    1,375        20,694  

Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. (K)

    325        7,173  

SPS Commerce, Inc. (K)

    300        22,044  

SPX Corp. (K)

    575        20,154  

SPX FLOW, Inc. (K)

    725        31,733  

Square, Inc., Class A (K)

    3,499        215,678  

SRC Energy, Inc. (K)

    4,075        44,907  

Stamps.com, Inc. (K)

    250        63,262  

Standex International Corp.

    200        20,440  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    7,945        1,055,175  

State Street Corp.

    8,115        755,425  

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

    6,350        291,782  

Stepan Co.

    1,375        107,264  

Sterling Bancorp

    2,000        47,000  

Steven Madden, Ltd.

    875        46,463  

Stewart Information Services Corp.

    400        17,228  

Stifel Financial Corp.

    2,400        125,400  

Strayer Education, Inc.

    175        19,777  

Summit Hotel Properties, Inc., REIT

    1,700        24,327  

SunCoke Energy, Inc. (K)

    1,050        14,070  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    5,264        347,529  

Superior Energy Services, Inc. (K)

    2,575        25,081  

Surmodics, Inc. (K)

    275        15,180  

SVB Financial Group (K)

    225        64,971  

Sykes Enterprises, Inc. (K)

    3,200        92,096  

Synaptics, Inc. (K)

    550        27,704  

Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. (K)

    600        3,702  

Syneos Health, Inc. (K)

    875        41,038  

SYNNEX Corp.

    350        33,779  

Synovus Financial Corp.

    4,825        254,905  

T-Mobile US, Inc.

    4,821        288,055  

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    1,196        138,844  

Tailored Brands, Inc.

    3,575        91,234  

Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (K)

    1,497        177,185  

Target Corp.

    7,450        567,094  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Taubman Centers, Inc., REIT

      1,050        $   61,698  

TCF Financial Corp.

    9,300        228,966  

Tech Data Corp. (K)

    2,025        166,293  

TEGNA, Inc.

    6,300        68,355  

Teladoc, Inc. (G) (K)

    3,985        231,329  

Teledyne Technologies, Inc. (K)

    600        119,436  

Teleflex, Inc.

    725        194,452  

Telephone & Data Systems, Inc.

    4,625        126,817  

Tenet Healthcare Corp. (K)

    4,400        147,708  

Teradata Corp. (K)

    6,445        258,767  

Teradyne, Inc.

    9,425        358,810  

Terex Corp.

    2,875        121,296  

Tesla, Inc. (K)

    548        187,937  

Tetra Tech, Inc.

    2,700        157,950  

TETRA Technologies, Inc. (K)

    2,150        9,568  

Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (K)

    2,025        185,287  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    8,448        931,392  

Texas Roadhouse, Inc.

    1,075        70,423  

TherapeuticsMD, Inc. (G) (K)

    30,651        191,262  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    1,678        347,581  

Thor Industries, Inc.

    825        80,347  

Timken Co.

    1,225        53,349  

TiVo Corp.

    3,075        41,359  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    1,091        103,841  

Toll Brothers, Inc.

    6,454        238,733  

TopBuild Corp. (K)

    1,450        113,593  

Toro Co.

    1,400        84,350  

Travelers Cos., Inc.

    3,270        400,052  

TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (K)

    950        49,884  

TRI Pointe Group, Inc. (K)

    1,900        31,084  

Trimble, Inc. (K)

    3,200        105,088  

Triumph Group, Inc.

    725        14,210  

TrueBlue, Inc. (K)

    3,525        94,999  

TrustCo Bank Corp.

    6,725        59,852  

Trustmark Corp.

    1,000        32,630  

TTM Technologies, Inc. (K)

    3,325        58,620  

Tupperware Brands Corp.

    2,425        100,007  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A

    11,313        562,143  

U.S. Steel Corp.

    4,175        145,081  

UGI Corp.

    5,775        300,704  

Ultimate Software Group, Inc. (K)

    350        90,058  

Ultra Clean Holdings, Inc. (K)

    1,300        21,580  

UMB Financial Corp.

    575        43,832  

Umpqua Holdings Corp.

    4,675        105,608  

UniFirst Corp.

    275        48,647  

Union Pacific Corp.

    8,255        1,169,568  

Unit Corp. (K)

    875        22,365  

United Community Banks, Inc.

    4,350        133,414  

United Continental Holdings, Inc.

    1,042        72,659  

United Fire Group, Inc.

    350        19,079  

United Insurance Holdings Corp.

    1,575        30,839  

United Natural Foods, Inc. (K)

    825        35,195  

United Rentals, Inc. (K)

    2,170        320,335  

United Technologies Corp.

    4,659        582,515  

United Therapeutics Corp. (K)

    2,425        274,389  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    13,693        3,359,441  

Uniti Group, Inc., REIT (G)

    2,825        56,585  

Universal Corp.

    350        23,118  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    43


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Universal Forest Products, Inc.

      3,150        $   115,353  

Universal Insurance Holdings, Inc.

    600        21,060  

Urban Outfitters, Inc. (K)

    11,050        492,277  

Urstadt Biddle Properties, Inc., Class A, REIT

    500        11,315  

US Concrete, Inc. (G) (K)

    200        10,500  

US Silica Holdings, Inc. (G)

    1,200        30,828  

Valero Energy Corp.

    7,100        786,893  

Valmont Industries, Inc.

    350        52,762  

Varex Imaging Corp. (K)

    600        22,254  

Vectren Corp.

    2,925        208,991  

Veeco Instruments, Inc. (K)

    108        1,539  

Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A (K)

    3,572        274,544  

Ventas, Inc., REIT

    2,317        131,953  

VeriSign, Inc. (K)

    2,260        310,569  

Veritiv Corp. (K)

    1,100        43,835  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    14,160        712,390  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (K)

    5,593        950,586  

Viad Corp.

    825        44,756  

Virtusa Corp. (K)

    425        20,689  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    22,521        2,982,906  

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.

    2,125        49,300  

Vistra Energy Corp. (K)

    13,520        319,883  

VMware, Inc., Class A (K)

    4,970        730,441  

Vonage Holdings Corp. (K)

    14,625        188,516  

Vornado Realty Trust, REIT

    4,008        296,271  

Voya Financial, Inc.

    1,044        49,068  

Wabash National Corp.

    875        16,328  

WABCO Holdings, Inc. (K)

    2,410        282,018  

Wabtec Corp.

    325        32,039  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    6,806        408,462  

Walker & Dunlop, Inc.

    450        25,043  

Walmart, Inc.

    5,920        507,048  

Walt Disney Co.

    8,635        905,034  

Waters Corp. (K)

    590        114,218  

Watsco, Inc.

    550        98,054  

Watts Water Technologies, Inc., Class A

    1,725        135,240  

Wayfair, Inc., Class A (G) (K)

    1,956        232,295  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    2,920        188,778  

Weingarten Realty Investors, REIT

    700        21,567  

WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (K)

    2,236        550,593  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    22,069        1,223,505  

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

    125        12,411  

WestRock Co.

    4,519        257,673  

WGL Holdings, Inc.

    125        11,094  

William Lyon Homes, Class A (K)

    450        10,440  

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (G)

    1,225        75,190  

Winnebago Industries, Inc.

    475        19,285  

Wintrust Financial Corp.

    2,150        187,157  

Wolverine World Wide, Inc.

    1,350        46,939  

Workday, Inc., Class A (K)

    1,835        222,255  

World Fuel Services Corp.

    1,100        22,451  

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc., Class A

    3,750        273,075  

Worldpay, Inc., Class A (K)

    7,099        580,556  

Worthington Industries, Inc.

    1,850        77,644  

WPX Energy, Inc. (K)

    8,275        149,198  

WR Berkley Corp.

    1,375        99,564  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    8,343        381,108  

XO Group, Inc. (K)

    425        13,600  

Yum! Brands, Inc.

      3,774          295,202  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
United States (continued)  

Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A (K)

      950        $   136,087  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    4,064        452,892  

Zoetis, Inc.

    567        48,303  

Zumiez, Inc. (K)

    1,350        33,818  
    

 

 

 
       216,383,307  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $263,751,352)

 

     304,458,224  
    

 

 

 
PREFERRED STOCK - 0.1%  
Germany - 0.1%  

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA,
1.65% (L)

    5,383        688,346  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stock
(Cost $711,894)

 

     688,346  
    

 

 

 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 4.0%  
United States - 4.0%  

JPMorgan Emerging Markets Debt Fund

    6        49  

JPMorgan High Yield Fund

    1,953,005        14,081,168  

JPMorgan Value Advantage Fund

    1,158,484        41,242,024  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $48,652,072)

 

     55,323,241  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.0% (F)  

U.S. Treasury Bill
1.81% (L), 09/13/2018

    $  15,000        14,943  

2.03% (L), 01/31/2019

    70,000        69,149  

2.11% (L), 11/15/2018

    300,000        297,730  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $381,761)

 

     381,822  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.4%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (L)

    19,758,791        19,758,791  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $19,758,791)

 

     19,758,791  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (L), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $18,861,289 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $19,241,696.

    $  18,859,875        18,859,875  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $18,859,875)

 

     18,859,875  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,367,284,761)

 

     1,399,954,992  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.6)%

 

     (8,253,585
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,391,701,407  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    44


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                  
Description   Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

2-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       69        09/28/2018     $ 14,613,089      $ 14,616,141      $ 3,052      $  

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       37        09/28/2018       4,200,483        4,203,836        3,353         

10-Year Australia Treasury Bond

    Long       220        09/17/2018       20,788,174        21,061,504        273,330         

10-Year Canada Government Bond

    Short       (135      09/19/2018       (13,876,918      (14,038,604             (161,686

10-Year U.S. Treasury Bond

    Short       (166      09/19/2018       (21,066,455      (21,286,906             (220,451

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       525        09/19/2018       62,609,084        63,098,437        489,353         

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Short       (59      09/19/2018       (7,062,480      (7,091,063             (28,583

EURO STOXX 50® Index

    Long       6        09/21/2018       240,841        237,601               (3,240

EURO STOXX 50® Index

    Short       (345      09/21/2018       (13,889,822      (13,662,034      227,788         

FTSE 100 Index

    Long       1        09/21/2018       100,903        100,321               (582

German Euro Bund Index

    Short       (36      09/06/2018       (6,776,091      (6,833,732             (57,641

Hang Seng Index

    Long       19        07/30/2018       3,467,098        3,478,344        11,246         

MSCI Emerging Markets Index

    Long       659        09/21/2018       37,311,954        35,035,735               (2,276,219

Russell 2000® Mini Index

    Long       7        09/21/2018       586,474        576,625               (9,849

Russell 2000® Mini Index

    Short       (101      09/21/2018       (8,465,362      (8,319,875      145,487         

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long       9        09/21/2018       1,245,598        1,224,720               (20,878

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Short       (43      09/21/2018       (5,982,503      (5,851,440      131,063         

S&P MidCap 400® E-Mini Index

    Long       7        09/21/2018       1,382,604        1,369,270               (13,334

S&P/TSX 60 Index

    Long       49        09/20/2018       7,102,141        7,180,877        78,736         

TOPIX Index

    Long       91        09/13/2018       14,581,012        14,223,502               (357,510

U.S. Treasury Bond

    Long       76        09/19/2018       11,152,519        11,398,625        246,106         
              

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

               $   1,609,514      $   (3,149,973
              

 

 

    

 

 

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY:

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

    22.3      $   312,394,130  

U.S. Government Obligations

    12.0          167,708,522  

Asset-Backed Securities

    9.6          134,180,167  

Banks

    6.2          86,110,582  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

    4.4          61,152,584  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

    3.0          42,514,569  

U.S. Equity Funds

    3.0          41,242,024  

Capital Markets

    2.8          39,603,903  

Electric Utilities

    2.1          29,233,058  

Software

    1.7          24,258,011  

Insurance

    1.7          23,684,917  

Health Care Providers & Services

    1.3          17,764,055  

Pharmaceuticals

    1.2          17,427,077  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts

    1.2          16,910,493  

Media

    1.2          16,565,269  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

    1.1          15,595,170  

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

    1.0          14,081,168  

Diversified Telecommunication Services

    1.0          14,043,111  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment

    1.0          13,959,066  

IT Services

    0.9          13,021,355  

Diversified Financial Services

    0.9          12,785,810  

Internet Software & Services

    0.9          12,775,309  

Beverages

    0.8          11,822,263  

Biotechnology

    0.8          10,955,804  

Consumer Finance

    0.8          10,837,829  

Machinery

    0.7          10,169,998  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    45


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY (continued):

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Aerospace & Defense

    0.7 %        $   10,163,185  

Chemicals

    0.7          9,820,616  

Internet & Direct Marketing Retail

    0.7          9,123,090  

Specialty Retail

    0.7          9,079,500  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies

    0.6          8,608,091  

Road & Rail

    0.6          8,558,071  

Airlines

    0.6          8,354,136  

Food Products

    0.6          8,095,014  

Foreign Government Obligations

    0.6          7,909,899  

Automobiles

    0.5          7,489,110  

Metals & Mining

    0.5          7,061,479  

Tobacco

    0.5          6,703,408  

Multi-Utilities

    0.4          5,968,873  

Food & Staples Retailing

    0.4          5,149,728  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

    0.3          4,482,791  

Wireless Telecommunication Services

    0.3          4,387,622  

Trading Companies & Distributors

    0.3          4,332,173  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components

    0.3          3,848,387  

Electrical Equipment

    0.3          3,693,121  

Building Products

    0.3          3,671,456  

Industrial Conglomerates

    0.3          3,620,974  

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods

    0.3          3,607,193  

Communications Equipment

    0.3          3,602,910  

Gas Utilities

    0.2          3,411,057  

Commercial Services & Supplies

    0.2          3,244,616  

Household Durables

    0.2          3,231,370  

Energy Equipment & Services

    0.2          3,055,324  

Multiline Retail

    0.2          2,830,417  

Household Products

    0.2          2,721,178  

Auto Components

    0.2          2,425,905  

Personal Products

    0.2          2,238,052  

Construction Materials

    0.1          1,910,218  

Life Sciences Tools & Services

    0.1          1,788,614  

Real Estate Management & Development

    0.1          1,743,897  

Internet & Catalog Retail

    0.1          1,742,321  

Air Freight & Logistics

    0.1          1,648,110  

Containers & Packaging

    0.1          1,631,945  

Construction & Engineering

    0.1          1,536,108  

Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers

    0.1          1,386,202  

Professional Services

    0.1          1,232,606  

Diversified Consumer Services

    0.1          1,039,834  

Health Care Technology

    0.1          799,780  

Transportation Infrastructure

    0.1          631,840  

Municipal Government Obligations

    0.0 (F)          590,275  

Paper & Forest Products

    0.0 (F)          489,344  

Distributors

    0.0 (F)          439,474  

Water Utilities

    0.0 (F)          383,692  

Leisure Products

    0.0 (F)          378,748  

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance

    0.0 (F)          176,717  

Marine

    0.0 (F)          77,330  

Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts

    0.0 (F)          42,410  

International Fixed Income Funds

    0.0 (F)          49  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investments, at Value

    97.2          1,360,954,504  

Short-Term Investments

    2.8          39,000,488  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments

    100.0      $   1,399,954,992  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    46


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (M)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable  Inputs (O)
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 134,180,167     $     $ 134,180,167  

Corporate Debt Securities

          316,531,268       17,848       316,549,116  

Foreign Government Obligations

          7,909,899             7,909,899  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          61,152,584             61,152,584  

Municipal Government Obligations

          590,275             590,275  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          312,394,130             312,394,130  

U.S. Government Obligations

          167,708,522             167,708,522  

Common Stocks

    222,212,723       82,245,501             304,458,224  

Preferred Stock

          688,346             688,346  

Investment Companies

    55,323,241                   55,323,241  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          381,822             381,822  

Securities Lending Collateral

    19,758,791                   19,758,791  

Repurchase Agreement

          18,859,875             18,859,875  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 297,294,755     $ 1,102,642,389     $ 17,848     $ 1,399,954,992  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (N)

  $ 1,609,514     $     $     $ 1,609,514  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 1,609,514     $     $     $ 1,609,514  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (N)

  $ (3,149,973   $     $     $ (3,149,973
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (3,149,973   $     $     $ (3,149,973
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $165,668,293, representing 11.9% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(B)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(C)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $8,507,386 or 0.6% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the total value of securities is $1,202,828, representing 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(F)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(G)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $19,263,662. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(H)    Step bonds. Coupon rates change in increments to maturity. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018; the maturity dates disclosed are the ultimate maturity dates.
(I)    Security is Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
(J)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) security. Security to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Security may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(K)    Non-income producing securities.
(L)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(M)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(N)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).
(O)    Level 3 securities were not considered significant to the Portfolio.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    47


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt
CMT    Constant Maturity Treasury
CVA    Commanditaire Vennootschap op Aandelen (Dutch Certificate)
FTSE    Financial Times Stock Exchange
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTA    Month Treasury Average
MTN    Medium Term Note
REIT    Real Estate Investment Trust
STOXX    Deutsche Börse Group & SIX Group Index
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities
TOPIX    Tokyo Price Index
TSX    Toronto Stock Exchange

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    48


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $1,348,424,886)
(including securities loaned of $19,263,662)

  $ 1,381,095,117  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $18,859,875)

    18,859,875  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    138,000  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $933,998)

    926,638  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    12,450  

Investments sold

    10,407,785  

Interest

    5,394,067  

Dividends

    451,276  

Tax reclaims

    143,797  

Net income from securities lending

    8,832  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    1,224,618  

Litigation

    10,271  

Prepaid expenses

    4,683  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,418,677,409  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    3,147  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    713,939  

Investments purchased

    4,950,801  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    124,460  

Investment management fees

    771,026  

Distribution and service fees

    261,696  

Transfer agent costs

    3,111  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    5,057  

Audit and tax fees

    30,345  

Custody fees

    62,605  

Legal fees

    17,586  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    255,655  

Other

    17,783  

Collateral for securities on loan

    19,758,791  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    26,976,002  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,391,701,407  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 892,798  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,273,595,691  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    40,107,597  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    45,984,728  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    32,670,231  

Futures contracts

    (1,540,459

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (9,179
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,391,701,407  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 83,311,257  

Service Class

    1,308,390,150  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    5,578,748  

Service Class

    83,701,084  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 14.93  

Service Class

    15.63  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 3,944,411  

Interest income

    16,943,487  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    54,523  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (175,094
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    20,767,327  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    4,939,253  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,653,365  

Transfer agent costs

    10,287  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    22,287  

Audit and tax fees

    36,766  

Custody fees

    247,053  

Legal fees

    43,986  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    123,489  

Other

    30,494  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    7,106,980  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (1,989

Service Class

    (31,207
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    7,073,784  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    13,693,543  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    15,894,404  

Futures contracts

    (4,489,258

Foreign currency transactions

    (119,747
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    11,285,399  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (44,874,442

Futures contracts

    (3,498,151

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (33,551
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (48,406,144
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (37,120,745
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (23,427,202
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    49


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 13,693,543     $ 24,775,105  

Net realized gain (loss)

    11,285,399       41,946,258  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (48,406,144     52,618,991  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (23,427,202     119,340,354  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (1,685,034

Service Class

          (21,779,385
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (23,464,419
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    737,589       4,227,955  

Service Class

    8,666,522       23,150,221  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    9,404,111       27,378,176  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          1,685,034  

Service Class

          21,779,385  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          23,464,419  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (4,984,919     (13,284,727

Service Class

    (60,628,032     (96,295,216
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (65,612,951     (109,579,943
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (56,208,840     (58,737,348
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (79,636,042     37,138,587  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,471,337,449       1,434,198,862  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,391,701,407     $   1,471,337,449  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 40,107,597     $ 26,414,054  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    49,145       289,794  

Service Class

    551,831       1,516,728  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    600,976       1,806,522  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          114,862  

Service Class

          1,415,165  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,530,027  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (332,171     (900,447

Service Class

    (3,854,749     (6,224,885
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (4,186,920     (7,125,332
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (283,026     (495,791

Service Class

    (3,302,918     (3,292,992
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,585,944     (3,788,783
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    50


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 15.16     $ 14.21     $ 13.79     $ 14.00     $ 13.28     $ 12.73  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.16       0.28       0.26 (C)       0.22       0.22       0.18  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.39     0.95       0.36       (0.24     0.65       0.52  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.23     1.23       0.62       (0.02     0.87       0.70  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.28     (0.20     (0.19     (0.15     (0.15
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 14.93     $ 15.16     $ 14.21     $ 13.79     $ 14.00     $ 13.28  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.52 )%(E)      8.75     4.46     (0.18 )%      6.53     5.51
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   83,311     $   88,873     $   90,344     $   99,871     $   113,964     $   113,899  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.77 %(G)      0.77     0.77     0.79     0.80     0.81

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.77 %(G)(H)(J)      0.77 %(H)      0.77 %(C)      0.79     0.80     0.81

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    2.18 %(G)      1.93     1.83 %(C)      1.58     1.62     1.39

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    33 %(E)      48     36     39     26     39

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 15.89     $ 14.88     $ 14.44     $ 14.66     $ 13.92     $ 13.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.15       0.26       0.24 (C)       0.20       0.20       0.16  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.41     1.00       0.37       (0.26     0.67       0.54  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.26     1.26       0.61       (0.06     0.87       0.70  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.25     (0.17     (0.16     (0.13     (0.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 15.63     $ 15.89     $ 14.88     $ 14.44     $ 14.66     $ 13.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.64 )%(E)      8.51     4.19     (0.40 )%      6.28     5.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,308,390     $   1,382,464     $   1,343,855     $   1,174,494     $   884,398     $   585,578  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.03 %(G)      1.02     1.02     1.04     1.05     1.06

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.02 %(G)(J)      1.02 %(H)      1.01 %(C)      1.04     1.05     1.06

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.93 %(G)      1.68     1.59 %(C)      1.34     1.39     1.17

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    33 %(E)      48     36     39     26     39

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    51


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    52


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected

in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    53


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    54


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    55


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Rights: Rights may be priced intrinsically using a model that incorporates the subscription or strike price, the daily market price for the underlying security, and a subscription ratio. If the inputs are unavailable, or if the subscription or strike price is higher than the market price, then the rights are priced at zero. Rights are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Corporate Debt Securities

  $ 4,801,112     $     $     $     $ 4,801,112  

U.S. Government Obligations

    8,190,429                         8,190,429  

Common Stocks

    6,767,250                         6,767,250  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 19,758,791     $     $     $     $ 19,758,791  

Total Borrowings

  $   19,758,791     $     $     $     $   19,758,791  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ 1,015,194     $     $ 594,320     $     $     $ 1,609,514  

Total

  $   1,015,194     $     $   594,320     $     $     $   1,609,514  
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $ (468,361   $     $ (2,681,612   $     $     $ (3,149,973

Total

  $ (468,361   $     $   (2,681,612   $     $     $   (3,149,973
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $ (1,698,257   $     $ (2,791,001    $      $      $ (4,489,258

Total

  $ (1,698,257   $     $ (2,791,001    $      $      $ (4,489,258
                                                    

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $ 528,249     $     $ (4,026,400    $      $      $ (3,498,151

Total

  $ 528,249     $     $ (4,026,400    $      $      $ (3,498,151
                                                    

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount
Long   Short
97,621,900   (81,011,193)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolios may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolios are in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolios fail to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of each Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to each Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.730

Over $500 million up to $750 million

     0.705  

Over $750 million

     0.680  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.90    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.15      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

       

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government          Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  315,051,532   $  149,420,007     $  327,981,179   $  162,639,265

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,367,284,761   $  65,117,795   $  (33,988,023)   $  31,129,772

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

 

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    63


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    64


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 3- and 5-year periods and below the median for the past 1- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on May 1, 2011 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees and TAM agreed upon an additional breakpoint to the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    65


Transamerica JPMorgan Tactical Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    66


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   996.70     $   4.21     $   1,020.60     $   4.26       0.85
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     50.0

U.S. Equity Funds

     44.4  

Securities Lending Collateral

     9.6  

International Equity Fund

     4.6  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

     0.7  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.3  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (9.6

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 99.0%  
International Equity Fund - 4.6%  

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    805,854        $  53,968,042  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 44.4%  

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    1,339,608        365,779,965  

SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust

    337,247        91,488,366  

Vanguard Small-Cap ETF (A)

    372,048        57,916,712  
    

 

 

 
       515,185,043  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 50.0%  

iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (A)

    905,217        110,183,013  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    873,056        92,823,314  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    4,756,261        376,648,309  
    

 

 

 
       579,654,636  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $1,069,178,157)

 

     1,148,807,721  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 9.6%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (B)

    111,536,107        111,536,107  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $111,536,107)

 

     111,536,107  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $3,159,719 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $3,224,045.

    $  3,159,482        $   3,159,482  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $3,159,482)

 

     3,159,482  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options
(Cost $1,183,873,746)

 

     1,263,503,310  

Total Purchased Options - 0.7%
(Cost $11,262,817)

 

     7,740,249  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,195,136,563)

 

     1,271,243,559  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (9.6)%

 

     (110,962,390
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,160,281,169  
    

 

 

 
 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description    Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,125.00        06/21/2019        USD        62,250,673        229      $ 1,537,277      $ 889,665  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,150.00        06/21/2019        USD        10,057,969        37        214,711        152,995  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,200.00        06/21/2019        USD        29,902,070        110        663,557        481,800  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,225.00        06/21/2019        USD        48,658,823        179        1,485,342        889,630  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,250.00        07/27/2018        USD        8,426,947        31        205,313        4,960  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,250.00        06/21/2019        USD        25,009,004        92        601,336        466,348  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,275.00        06/21/2019        USD        44,581,268        164        1,509,292        869,200  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,300.00        06/21/2019        USD        23,377,982        86        636,258        481,600  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,325.00        06/21/2019        USD        40,231,876        148        1,510,044        935,360  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,325.00        12/20/2019        USD        7,611,436        28        217,084        251,020  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,350.00        06/21/2019        USD        35,882,484        132        1,081,606        850,740  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,375.00        12/20/2019        USD        6,795,925        25        215,125        248,000  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,400.00        06/21/2019        USD        27,999,211        103        913,304        731,300  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,400.00        12/20/2019        USD        6,524,088        24        216,672        250,440  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,450.00        06/21/2019        USD        7,883,273        29        255,896        237,191  
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

               $   11,262,817      $   7,740,249  
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 1,148,807,721     $     $     $ 1,148,807,721  

Securities Lending Collateral

    111,536,107                   111,536,107  

Repurchase Agreement

          3,159,482             3,159,482  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    7,740,249                   7,740,249  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,268,084,077     $ 3,159,482     $     $ 1,271,243,559  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $109,264,675. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $1,191,977,081)
(including securities loaned of $109,264,675)

  $   1,268,084,077  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $3,159,482)

    3,159,482  

Cash

    4,571  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    33,903  

Interest

    79  

Dividends

    2,136,386  

Net income from securities lending

    14,475  

Prepaid expenses

    3,890  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,273,436,863  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    753,549  

Investment management fees

    526,960  

Distribution and service fees

    232,590  

Transfer agent costs

    2,623  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    4,268  

Audit and tax fees

    18,176  

Custody fees

    6,869  

Legal fees

    15,325  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    43,870  

Other

    15,357  

Collateral for securities on loan

    111,536,107  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    113,155,694  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,160,281,169  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 951,744  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,078,725,237  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    23,721,756  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (19,224,564

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    76,106,996  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,160,281,169  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    95,174,356  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 12.19  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 12,272,976  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    6,716  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    150,754  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    12,430,446  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    3,328,098  

Distribution and service fees

    1,469,246  

Transfer agent costs

    8,604  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    18,697  

Audit and tax fees

    17,400  

Custody fees

    48,797  

Legal fees

    37,011  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    22,934  

Other

    16,863  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    4,967,650  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    7,462,796  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    11,207,738  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    (23,101,112
 

 

 

 
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)     (11,893,374
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (4,430,578
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 7,462,796     $ 16,313,547  

Net realized gain (loss)

    11,207,738       703,808  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (23,101,112     106,100,210  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (4,430,578     123,117,565  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (13,946,015
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    2,404,135       8,952,375  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          13,946,015  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (67,435,461     (175,309,804
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (65,031,326     (152,411,414
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (69,461,904     (43,239,864
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,229,743,073       1,272,982,937  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,160,281,169     $   1,229,743,073  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 23,721,756     $ 16,258,960  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    197,670       755,118  

Shares reinvested

          1,195,031  

Shares redeemed

    (5,533,998     (15,063,154
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (5,336,328     (13,113,005
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.23     $ 11.20     $ 11.64     $ 11.99     $ 11.12     $ 10.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.08       0.15       0.12 (C)       0.17       0.19       0.19  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.12     1.02       (0.18     (0.42     0.75       0.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.04     1.17       (0.06     (0.25     0.94       0.95  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

 

Net investment income

          (0.14     (0.13     (0.10     (0.07     (0.02

Net realized gains

                (0.25                 (0.00 )(D) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.14     (0.38     (0.10     (0.07     (0.02
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end ofperiod/year

  $ 12.19     $ 12.23     $ 11.20     $ 11.64     $ 11.99     $ 11.12  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (E)

    (0.33 )%(F)      10.47     (0.67 )%      (2.08 )%      8.48     9.37
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,160,281     $   1,229,743     $   1,272,983     $   1,220,431     $   798,077     $   393,489  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.85 %(H)      0.86     0.86     0.87     0.88     0.90

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.85 %(H)      0.86     0.86 %(C)      0.87     0.88     0.90

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.27 %(H)      1.32     1.07 %(C)      1.38     1.65     1.74

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    4 %(F)      10     103     57     13     2

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation—Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 111,536,107     $     $     $     $ 111,536,107  

Total Borrowings

  $   111,536,107     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   111,536,107  
                                         

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $     $     $ 7,740,249     $     $     $ 7,740,249  

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   7,740,249     $   —     $   —     $   7,740,249  
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $     $     $ (3,074,033   $     $     $ (3,074,033

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (3,074,033   $   —     $   —     $   (3,074,033
                                                 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (B)

  $     $     $ 592,934     $     $     $ 592,934  

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   592,934     $   —     $   —     $   592,934  
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments within the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments within the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options and Swaptions at value

Calls   Puts
$  —   $  7,067,431

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $750 million

     0.57

Over $750 million up to $1.5 billion

     0.56  

Over $1.5 billion up to $2.5 billion

     0.54  

Over $2.5 billion up to $3 billion

     0.52  

Over $3 billion

     0.51  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Service Class

     0.97    May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  49,602,847     $  107,378,031

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,195,136,563   $  97,423,358   $  (21,316,362)   $  76,106,996

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation — Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and QS Investors, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Trustees observed that the performance of the Portfolio had improved during the first quarter of 2018.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,004.60     $   4.30     $   1,020.50     $   4.31       0.86
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     61.8

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     30.1  

International Equity Fund

     6.5  

Securities Lending Collateral

     5.9  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.0

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

     0.9  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (5.2

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 98.4%  
International Equity Fund - 6.5%  

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    516,168        $  34,567,771  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 61.8%  

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    855,089        233,482,051  

SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust

    215,249        58,392,749  

Vanguard Small-Cap ETF

    235,370        36,640,048  
    

 

 

 
       328,514,848  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 30.1%  

iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (A)

    249,650        30,387,398  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    243,070        25,843,202  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    1,304,852        103,331,230  
    

 

 

 
       159,561,830  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $463,815,709)

 

     522,644,449  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 5.9%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (B)

    30,930,546        30,930,546  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $30,930,546)

 

     30,930,546  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.0% (C)  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $258,811 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $264,186.

    $  258,792        $   258,792  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $258,792)

 

     258,792  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options
(Cost $495,005,047)

 

     553,833,787  

Total Purchased Options - 0.9%
(Cost $7,222,527)

 

     4,959,862  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $502,227,574)

 

     558,793,649  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (5.2)%

 

     (27,428,403
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  531,365,246  
    

 

 

 
 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

 

Description    Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,125.00        06/21/2019        USD        39,960,039        147      $ 986,811      $ 571,095  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,150.00        06/21/2019        USD        6,524,088        24        139,272        99,240  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,200.00        06/21/2019        USD        20,115,938        74        449,021        324,120  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,225.00        06/21/2019        USD        30,717,581        113        937,674        561,610  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,250.00        07/27/2018        USD        5,708,577        21        139,083        3,360  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,250.00        06/21/2019        USD        14,679,198        54        351,382        273,726  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,275.00        06/21/2019        USD        28,814,722        106        975,518        561,800  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,300.00        06/21/2019        USD        14,679,198        54        403,102        302,400  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,325.00        06/21/2019        USD        25,552,678        94        959,082        594,080  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,325.00        12/20/2019        USD        4,893,066        18        139,554        161,370  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,350.00        06/21/2019        USD        23,649,819        87        710,491        560,715  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,375.00        12/20/2019        USD        4,349,392        16        137,680        158,720  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,400.00        06/21/2019        USD        18,213,079        67        590,781        475,700  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,400.00        12/20/2019        USD        4,077,555        15        135,420        156,525  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,450.00        06/21/2019        USD        5,164,903        19        167,656        155,401  
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

               $   7,222,527      $   4,959,862  
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 522,644,449     $     $     $ 522,644,449  

Securities Lending Collateral

    30,930,546                   30,930,546  

Repurchase Agreement

          258,792             258,792  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    4,959,862                   4,959,862  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 558,534,857     $ 258,792     $     $ 558,793,649  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $30,300,733. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $501,968,782)
(including securities loaned of $30,300,733)

  $ 558,534,857  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $258,792)

    258,792  

Cash

    3,091  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Investments sold

    2,671,098  

Interest

    6  

Dividends

    1,372,926  

Net income from securities lending

    2,210  

Prepaid expenses

    1,824  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    562,844,804  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    134,316  

Investment management fees

    248,523  

Distribution and service fees

    107,122  

Transfer agent costs

    1,177  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,948  

Audit and tax fees

    13,307  

Custody fees

    3,185  

Legal fees

    6,787  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    25,679  

Other

    6,968  

Collateral for securities on loan

    30,930,546  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    31,479,558  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   531,365,246  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 404,167  

Additional paid-in capital

    480,786,180  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    9,597,985  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (15,989,161

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    56,566,075  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 531,365,246  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    40,416,734  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 13.15  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 5,429,569  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    6,196  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    30,687  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    5,466,452  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,568,191  

Distribution and service fees

    675,944  

Transfer agent costs

    3,948  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    8,589  

Audit and tax fees

    12,874  

Custody fees

    24,057  

Legal fees

    16,813  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    13,174  

Other

    7,723  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,331,313  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    3,135,139  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    5,900,932  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    (6,788,025
 

 

 

 
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)     (887,093
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   2,248,046  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 3,135,139     $ 6,526,353  

Net realized gain (loss)

    5,900,932       (1,019,386

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (6,788,025     64,227,511  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    2,248,046       69,734,478  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (5,481,492
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    2,048,353       5,556,415  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          5,481,492  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (36,062,556     (88,885,714
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (34,014,203     (77,847,807
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (31,766,157     (13,594,821
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    563,131,403       576,726,224  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   531,365,246     $   563,131,403  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 9,597,985     $ 6,462,846  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    156,182       449,638  

Shares reinvested

          446,739  

Shares redeemed

    (2,746,359     (7,265,834
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    (2,590,177     (6,369,457
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.09     $ 11.68     $ 12.14     $ 12.59     $ 11.70     $ 10.14  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.08       0.15       0.11 (C)       0.15       0.18       0.18  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.02     1.38       (0.23     (0.52     0.78       1.40  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.06       1.53       (0.12     (0.37     0.96       1.58  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.12     (0.12     (0.08     (0.07     (0.02

Net realized gains

                (0.22                 (0.00 )(D) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.12     (0.34     (0.08     (0.07     (0.02
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.15     $ 13.09     $ 11.68     $ 12.14     $ 12.59     $ 11.70  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (E)

    0.46 %(F)      13.21     (0.99 )%      (2.95 )%      8.18     15.61
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   531,365     $   563,131     $   576,726     $   595,643     $   339,385     $   164,650  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.86 %(H)      0.89     0.89     0.89     0.92     0.94

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.86 %(H)      0.89     0.89 %(C)      0.89     0.92     0.96

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (A)

    1.16 %(H)      1.17     0.90 %(C)      1.24     1.48     1.62

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    4 %(F)      9     182     80     9     3

 

(A)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation - Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of

 

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 30,930,546     $     $     $     $ 30,930,546  

Total Borrowings

  $   30,930,546     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   30,930,546  
                                         

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $     $     $ 4,959,862      $      $      $ 4,959,862  

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   4,959,862      $   —      $   —      $   4,959,862  
                                                    

 

(A)   Included within Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $     $     $ (1,954,653    $      $      $ (1,954,653

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (1,954,653    $   —      $   —      $   (1,954,653
                                                    
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (B)

  $     $     $ 357,114      $      $      $ 357,114  

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   357,114      $   —      $   —      $   357,114  
                                                    

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments within the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments within the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options and Swaptions at value

Calls   Puts
$  —   $  4,526,479

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $750 million

     0.58

Over $750 million up to $1.5 billion

     0.57  

Over $1.5 billion up to $2.5 billion

     0.55  

Over $2.5 billion up to $3 billion

     0.53  

Over $3 billion

     0.52  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Service Class

     0.99    May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  23,807,093     $  54,433,585

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  502,227,574   $  64,287,934   $  (7,721,859)   $  56,566,075

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation — Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and QS Investors, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Trustees observed that the performance of the Portfolio had improved during the first quarter of 2018.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Legg Mason Dynamic Allocation – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,005.90     $   5.97     $   1,018.80     $   6.01       1.20
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.6

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     2.4  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.6%  
Aerospace & Defense - 1.7%  

General Dynamics Corp.

    120        $  22,369  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 1.7%  

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.

    963        22,428  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 3.8%  

General Motors Co.

    1,280        50,432  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 11.7%  

Bank of America Corp.

    1,445        40,734  

Citigroup, Inc.

    918        61,433  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    515        53,663  
    

 

 

 
       155,830  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.1%  

Morgan Stanley

    301        14,267  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 3.8%  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    777        51,220  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 2.5%  

Nokia OYJ, ADR

    5,774        33,200  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 2.5%  

International Paper Co.

    632        32,915  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 2.1%  

Voya Financial, Inc.

    602        28,294  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 4.8%  

AT&T, Inc.

    1,987        63,803  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 2.7%  

PG&E Corp.

    849        36,133  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 3.8%  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    680        50,823  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 2.5%  

Corning, Inc.

    1,204        33,122  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.2%  

Walmart, Inc.

    181        15,503  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 10.8%  

Pinnacle Foods, Inc.

    843        54,846  

Post Holdings, Inc. (A)

    478        41,117  

TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (A)

    924        48,519  
    

 

 

 
       144,482  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 2.2%  

Cigna Corp.

    174        29,571  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.1%  

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.

    136        $   14,090  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 2.4%  

Whirlpool Corp.

    217        31,732  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 8.7%  

American International Group, Inc.

    1,174        62,246  

Athene Holding, Ltd., Class A (A)

    512        22,446  

Chubb, Ltd.

    252        32,009  
    

 

 

 
       116,701  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.3%  

Fluidigm Corp. (A) (B) (C)

    786        4,685  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.9%  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    383        12,566  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 12.2%  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    286        35,587  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    241        19,938  

Hess Corp.

    456        30,502  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    921        77,069  
    

 

 

 
       163,096  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 6.5%  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    602        36,541  

Pfizer, Inc.

    1,385        50,248  
    

 

 

 
       86,789  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 2.8%  

Intel Corp.

    753        37,432  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.6%  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    226        21,599  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 2.2%  

Apple, Inc.

    160        29,618  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $1,304,672)

 

     1,302,700  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,304,672)

 

     1,302,700  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 2.4%

       32,596  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,335,296  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 1,302,700     $     $     $ 1,302,700  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,302,700     $     $     $ 1,302,700  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Restricted security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such security held by the Portfolio is as follows:

 

Investments    Description    Acquisition
Date
     Acquisition
Cost
       Value        Value as Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Common Stocks

  

Fluidigm Corp.

     11/29/2017 - 01/10/2018      $   4,553        $   4,685          0.4

 

(C)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $4,685 or 0.4% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $1,304,672)

  $ 1,302,700  

Cash

    40,026  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Due from investment manager

    5,513  

Dividends

    1,445  

Prepaid expenses

    6  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,349,690  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    8  

Investments purchased

    1,835  

Distribution and service fees

    250  

Transfer agent costs

    7  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2  

Audit and tax fees

    9,368  

Custody fees

    1,909  

Legal fees

    8  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    978  

Other

    29  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    14,394  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,335,296  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,301  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,311,927  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    8,069  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    15,971  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (1,972
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,335,296  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    130,074  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 10.27  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 11,919  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (157
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    11,762  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    3,564  

Distribution and service fees

    1,310  

Transfer agent costs

    8  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    15  

Audit and tax fees

    9,372  

Custody fees

    8,070  

Legal fees

    31  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    900  

Dues and subscriptions fees

    1,401  

Other

    6  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    24,677  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

      (18,388
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    6,289  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    5,473  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    7,949  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (13,367
 

 

 

 
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)     (5,418
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 55  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the periods ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017 (A)  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 5,473     $ 1,978  

Net realized gain (loss)

    7,949       8,022  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (13,367     11,395  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    55       21,395  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    314,182       1,000,000  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (336      
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    313,846       1,000,000  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    313,901       1,021,395  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period

    1,021,395        
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period

  $   1,335,296     $   1,021,395  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 8,069     $ 2,596  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    30,107       100,000  

Shares redeemed

    (33      
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    30,074       100,000  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on September 29, 2017.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the periods indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 10.21     $ 10.00  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

    

Net investment income (loss) (B)

     0.05       0.02  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     0.01 (C)       0.19  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.06       0.21  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 10.27     $ 10.21  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     0.59 %(E)      2.10 %(E) 
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

    

Net assets end of period (000’s)

   $   1,335     $   1,021  

Expenses to average net assets

    

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     4.71 %(F)      15.95 %(F) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     1.20 %(F)      1.20 %(F) 
Net investment income (loss) to average net assets      1.04 %(F)      0.77 %(F) 

Portfolio turnover rate

     68 %(E)      53 %(E) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on September 29, 2017.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

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Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP (the “Portfolio”) commenced operations on September 29, 2017. The Portfolio is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

 

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Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $12.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily

 

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Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

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Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $750 million

     0.68

Over $750 million up to $1 billion

     0.65  

Over $1 billion

     0.63  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

Operating Expense Limit   Operating Expense
Limit Effective Through
1.20%   May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available

    
2017   2018    Total
$  37,702   $  18,388    $  56,090

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

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Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  1,029,181   $  —     $  709,084   $  —

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,304,672   $  46,784   $  (48,756)   $  (1,972)

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Levin Capital Strategies, LP (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio since its inception on September 29, 2017 in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its benchmark since its inception. The Trustees observed that the performance of the Portfolio had improved during the first quarter of 2018.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees and TAM agreed upon an additional breakpoint to the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Levin Large Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   999.10     $   2.38     $   1,022.40     $   2.41       0.48

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     41.0

U.S. Equity Funds

     39.4  

International Equity Funds

     9.8  

International Fixed Income Fund

     8.3  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.5  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.0 )* 

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 3.6%  
International Equity Funds - 1.5%  

Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US ETF

    19,967        $  1,035,089  

WisdomTree Japan Hedged Equity Fund

    10,015        540,610  
    

 

 

 
       1,575,699  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Fund - 2.1%  

iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF

    18,471        2,248,290  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $3,939,086)

 

     3,823,989  
    

 

 

 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 94.9%  
International Equity Funds - 8.3%  

Madison International Stock Fund

    84,899        1,181,795  

Transamerica International Equity (A) (B)

    159,328        3,028,823  

Transamerica International Growth (A) (B)

    183,782        1,582,360  

Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF

    98,509        3,093,183  
    

 

 

 
       8,886,161  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Fund - 8.3%  

Transamerica Inflation Opportunities (A) (B)

    892,291        8,860,454  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 39.4%  

Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund

    23,290        1,768,643  

Madison Investors Fund

    366,881        8,463,954  

Madison Large Cap Value Fund

    196,351        2,896,176  

Madison Mid Cap Fund

    440,055        4,484,164  

Transamerica Dividend Focused (A) (B)

    208,048        2,253,157  

Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP (B) (C)

    5,615        123,427  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (A) (B)

    319,967        4,009,186  

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities (A) (B)

    46,857        552,442  
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Equity Funds (continued)  

Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP (B) (C)

    344,089        $  7,563,076  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (B) (C)

    307,226        9,877,330  
    

 

 

 
       41,991,555  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 38.9%  

Madison Core Bond Fund

    1,501,613        14,505,584  

Transamerica Core Bond (A) (B)

    1,510,163        14,573,072  

Transamerica Short-Term Bond (A) (B)

    1,260,784        12,469,156  
    

 

 

 
       41,547,812  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $99,511,788)

 

     101,285,982  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.5%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (D), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $1,586,118 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $1,619,361.

    $  1,585,999        1,585,999  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $1,585,999)

 

     1,585,999  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $105,036,873)

 

     106,695,970  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.0)% (E)

 

     (23,805
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  106,672,165  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (F)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 3,823,989     $     $     $ 3,823,989  

Investment Companies

    101,285,982                   101,285,982  

Repurchase Agreement

          1,585,999             1,585,999  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 105,109,971     $ 1,585,999     $     $ 106,695,970  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments   Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica Bond   $ 1,110,518     $ 2,955     $ (1,098,577   $ (4,351   $ (10,545   $           $ 2,955     $  
Transamerica Core Bond     19,000,400       1,228,646       (5,171,212     (111,023     (373,739     14,573,072       1,510,163       228,645        
Transamerica Dividend Focused     6,472,060       509,340       (4,619,689     24,392       (132,946     2,253,157       208,048       40,522        
Transamerica Inflation Opportunities     1,958,482       8,281,545       (1,250,000     (13,193     (116,380     8,860,454       892,291       86,483        
Transamerica International Equity     5,227,735       350,000       (2,481,856     162,103       (229,159     3,028,823       159,328              
Transamerica International Growth     2,347,190             (676,182     (1,231     (87,417     1,582,360       183,782              
Transamerica JPMorgan Enhanced Index VP     1,149,187       1,000,000       (2,005,544     89,320       (109,536     123,427       5,615              
Transamerica Large Cap Value     2,482,923       3,304,492       (1,765,198     (129,355     116,324       4,009,186       319,967       29,492        
Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities     282,971       425,382       (174,275     5,650       12,714       552,442       46,857              
Transamerica Short-Term Bond     8,368,084       4,206,663             (75     (105,516     12,469,156       1,260,784       130,269        
Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP     6,697,023       3,960,241       (3,416,600     425,280       (102,868     7,563,076       344,089              
Transamerica WMC US Growth VP     6,932,274       3,275,000       (1,055,953     187,704       538,305       9,877,330       307,226              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $   62,028,847     $   26,544,264     $   (23,715,086   $   635,221     $   (600,763   $   64,892,483       5,238,150     $   518,366     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(C)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statements of Operations.
(D)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(E)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(F)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $63,915,251)

  $ 64,892,483  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $39,535,623)

    40,217,488  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $1,585,999)

    1,585,999  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Interest

    40  

Dividends

    96,586  

Prepaid expenses

    363  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    106,792,959  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    7,933  

Investments purchased

    58,666  

Investment management fees

    15,445  

Distribution and service fees

    21,452  

Transfer agent costs

    226  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    390  

Audit and tax fees

    9,021  

Custody fees

    979  

Legal fees

    1,227  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    2,322  

Other

    3,133  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    120,794  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   106,672,165  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 91,910  

Additional paid-in capital

    99,090,224  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    2,613,365  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    3,217,569  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    977,232  

Unaffiliated investments

    681,865  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 106,672,165  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    9,191,036  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 11.61  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 518,366  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

    346,010  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    5,958  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    870,334  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    97,079  

Distribution and service fees

    134,833  

Transfer agent costs

    780  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,706  

Audit and tax fees

    8,886  

Custody fees

    5,416  

Legal fees

    3,280  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    1,944  

Other

    3,377  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    257,301  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    613,033  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    635,221  

Unaffiliated investments

    1,654,467  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    2,289,688  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (600,763

Unaffiliated investments

      (2,326,272
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (2,927,035
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (637,347
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (24,314
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 613,033     $ 2,051,116  

Net realized gain (loss)

    2,289,688       3,540,172  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (2,927,035     6,085,450  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (24,314     11,676,738  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (1,924,085
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    608,363       2,647,413  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          1,924,085  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (5,616,806     (7,675,587
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (5,008,443     (3,104,089
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (5,032,757     6,648,564  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    111,704,922       105,056,358  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   106,672,165     $   111,704,922  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,613,365     $ 2,000,332  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    52,369       238,064  

Shares reinvested

          173,654  

Shares redeemed

    (483,453     (687,109
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    (431,084     (275,391
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.61     $ 10.61     $ 10.49     $ 11.56     $ 11.53     $ 10.45  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.07       0.21       0.19 (C)       0.22       0.26       0.14  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.07     0.99       0.37       (0.31     0.40       1.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

          1.20       0.56       (0.09     0.66       1.36  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.20     (0.20     (0.21     (0.08     (0.11

Net realized gains

                (0.24     (0.77     (0.55     (0.17
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.20     (0.44     (0.98     (0.63     (0.28
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.61     $ 11.61     $ 10.61     $ 10.49     $ 11.56     $ 11.53  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    0.00 %(E)      11.41     5.25     (0.73 )%      5.74     13.24
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   106,672     $   111,705     $   105,056     $   98,558     $   94,841     $   64,558  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.48 %(G)      0.48     0.47     0.47     0.49     0.52

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.48 %(G)      0.48     0.47 %(C)      0.47     0.49     0.58

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.14 %(G)      1.89     1.82 %(C)      1.94     2.19     1.28

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    37 %(E)      57     63     60     131     139

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.18% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     0.60      May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  39,840,949     $  46,317,448

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  105,036,873

  $  3,456,480   $  (1,797,383)   $  1,659,097

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Madison Asset Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Madison Balanced Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   994.50     $   2.42     $   1,022.40     $   2.46       0.49

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Fund

     56.8

U.S. Equity Funds

     23.9  

International Fixed Income Fund

     12.7  

International Equity Funds

     5.5  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.4  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.3

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 2.9%  
International Equity Funds - 0.8%  

Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US ETF

    6,261        $  324,570  

WisdomTree Japan Hedged Equity Fund

    3,151        170,091  
    

 

 

 
       494,661  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Fund - 2.1%  

iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF

    11,577        1,409,153  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $1,967,339)

 

     1,903,814  
    

 

 

 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 96.0%  
International Equity Funds - 4.7%  

Madison International Stock Fund

    37,086        516,232  

Transamerica International Equity (A) (B)

    52,705        1,001,919  

Transamerica International Growth (A) (B)

    74,765        643,726  

Xtrackers MSCI EAFE Hedged Equity ETF

    31,779        997,861  
    

 

 

 
       3,159,738  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Fund - 12.7%  

Transamerica Inflation Opportunities (A) (B)

    858,696        8,526,846  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 23.9%  

Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund

    9,158        695,459  

Madison Investors Fund

    179,406        4,138,900  

Madison Large Cap Value Fund

    68,780        1,014,506  

Madison Mid Cap Fund

    174,992        1,783,167  

Transamerica Dividend Focused (A) (B)

    63,584        688,615  

Transamerica Large Cap Value (A) (B)

    118,576        1,485,759  

Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities (A) (B)

    5,972        70,413  

Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP (B) (C)

    121,976        2,681,039  
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Equity Funds (continued)  

Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (B) (C)

    109,247        $   3,512,287  
    

 

 

 
       16,070,145  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 54.7%  

Madison Core Bond Fund

    1,274,721        12,313,802  

Transamerica Core Bond (A) (B)

    1,277,534        12,328,204  

Transamerica Short-Term Bond (A) (B)

    1,219,770        12,063,528  
    

 

 

 
       36,705,534  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $64,688,571)

 

     64,462,263  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  

REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.4%

 

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (D), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $962,444 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $983,358.

    $  962,372        962,372  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $962,372)

 

     962,372  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $67,618,282)

 

     67,328,449  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.3)%

       (183,119
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  67,145,330  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (E)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 1,903,814     $     $     $ 1,903,814  

Investment Companies

    64,462,263                   64,462,263  

Repurchase Agreement

          962,372             962,372  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 66,366,077     $ 962,372     $     $ 67,328,449  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments   Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
Transamerica Bond   $ 3,300,566     $ 3,810     $ (3,266,517   $ (73,962   $ 36,103     $           $ 3,810     $  
Transamerica Core Bond     14,787,249       1,434,982       (3,513,296     (66,715     (314,016     12,328,204       1,277,534       184,982        
Transamerica Dividend Focused     2,902,105       363,742       (2,550,361     16,423       (43,294     688,615       63,584       13,742        
Transamerica Inflation Opportunities     3,212,229       6,186,972       (750,000     (7,927     (114,428     8,526,846       858,696       86,973        
Transamerica International Equity     1,660,309             (634,499     48,160       (72,051     1,001,919       52,705              
Transamerica International Growth     1,122,513             (452,561     10,858       (37,084     643,726       74,765              
Transamerica Large Cap Value     481,529       2,002,464       (982,274     (36,709     20,749       1,485,759       118,576       12,654        
Transamerica Mid Cap Value Opportunities     69,577                         836       70,413       5,972              
Transamerica Short-Term Bond     9,591,516       2,583,979             (28     (111,939     12,063,528       1,219,770       131,601        
Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP     2,234,616       1,875,000       (1,567,537     181,489       (42,529     2,681,039       121,976              
Transamerica WMC US Growth VP     2,430,225       1,706,209       (875,678     151,539       99,992       3,512,287       109,247              
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $   41,792,434     $   16,157,158     $   (14,592,723   $   223,128     $   (577,661   $   43,002,336       3,902,825     $   433,762     $   —  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(C)    Investment in the Initial Class shares of the affiliated portfolio of Transamerica Series Trust. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains/(losses), if any, are broken out within the Statement of Operations.
(D)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(E)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $43,256,214)

  $ 43,002,336  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $23,399,696)

    23,363,741  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $962,372)

    962,372  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Interest

    24  

Dividends

    81,461  

Prepaid expenses

    223  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    67,410,157  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    1,000  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    175,076  

Investments purchased

    52,994  

Investment management fees

    9,695  

Distribution and service fees

    13,465  

Transfer agent costs

    153  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    257  

Audit and tax fees

    8,668  

Custody fees

    428  

Legal fees

    901  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    1,572  

Other

    618  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    264,827  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   67,145,330  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 61,547  

Additional paid-in capital

    64,759,760  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    1,837,294  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    776,562  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (253,878

Unaffiliated investments

    (35,955
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 67,145,330  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    6,154,749  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 10.91  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 433,762  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

    244,024  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    3,833  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    681,619  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    61,238  

Distribution and service fees

    85,052  

Transfer agent costs

    497  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,080  

Audit and tax fees

    8,570  

Custody fees

    4,572  

Legal fees

    2,155  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    1,517  

Other

    814  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    165,495  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    516,124  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    223,128  

Unaffiliated investments

    722,614  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    945,742  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (577,661

Unaffiliated investments

    (1,256,108
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (1,833,769
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (888,027
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (371,903
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 516,124     $ 1,371,732  

Net realized gain (loss)

    945,742       1,915,992  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (1,833,769     2,397,477  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (371,903     5,685,201  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (1,393,881
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    378,133       526,097  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          1,393,881  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (3,790,391     (8,280,669
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (3,412,258     (6,360,691
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (3,784,161     (2,069,371
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    70,929,491       72,998,862  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   67,145,330     $   70,929,491  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,837,294     $ 1,321,170  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    34,714       49,043  

Shares reinvested

          130,881  

Shares redeemed

    (347,527     (773,969
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    (312,813     (594,045
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.97     $ 10.34     $ 10.21     $ 10.94     $ 11.04     $ 10.55  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.08       0.20       0.19 (C)       0.22       0.20       0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.14     0.64       0.23       (0.29     0.32       0.50  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.06     0.84       0.42       (0.07     0.52       0.70  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.21     (0.21     (0.19     (0.15     (0.12

Net realized gains

                (0.08     (0.47     (0.47     (0.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.21     (0.29     (0.66     (0.62     (0.21
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.91     $ 10.97     $ 10.34     $ 10.21     $ 10.94     $ 11.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.55 )%(E)      8.22     4.09     (0.66 )%      4.76     6.76
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   67,145     $   70,929     $   72,999     $   74,096     $   74,680     $   64,090  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.49 %(G)      0.48     0.48     0.48     0.49     0.51

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.49 %(G)      0.48     0.48 %(C)      0.48     0.49     0.56

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.52 %(G)      1.91     1.79 %(C)      2.06     1.84     1.87

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    31 %(E)      48     69     68     128     141

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.18% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     0.60      May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  21,275,474     $  25,415,166

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  67,618,282   $  1,140,765   $  (1,430,598)   $  (289,833)

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Madison Asset Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Conservative Allocation VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   983.20     $   5.06     $   1,019.70     $   5.16       1.03

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     40.6

Corporate Debt Securities

     22.4  

U.S. Government Obligations

     15.8  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     10.6  

Repurchase Agreement

     4.9  

Asset-Backed Securities

     3.6  

Municipal Government Obligations

     2.6  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     0.8  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (1.4

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 40.6%  
Aerospace & Defense - 1.1%  

United Technologies Corp.

    12,000        $  1,500,360  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 1.1%  

United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B

    14,000        1,487,220  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 3.4%  

BB&T Corp.

    16,200        817,128  

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

    4,200        567,420  

US Bancorp

    34,500        1,725,690  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    28,300        1,568,952  
    

 

 

 
       4,679,190  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 1.9%  

Diageo PLC, ADR

    9,400        1,353,694  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    10,900        1,186,683  
    

 

 

 
       2,540,377  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.7%  

Amgen, Inc.

    5,500        1,015,245  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.9%  

CME Group, Inc.

    11,300        1,852,296  

Northern Trust Corp.

    7,400        761,386  
    

 

 

 
       2,613,682  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 1.5%  

Praxair, Inc.

    13,000        2,055,950  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 1.4%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    45,400        1,953,562  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.2%  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    34,000        1,710,540  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.8%  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    7,000        1,169,210  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.9%  

Emerson Electric Co.

    17,200        1,189,208  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 1.2%  

Schlumberger, Ltd.

    24,000        1,608,720  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.4%  

J.M. Smucker, Co.

    5,200        558,896  

Nestle SA, ADR

    17,500        1,355,025  
    

 

 

 
       1,913,921  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 1.4%  

Medtronic PLC

    22,500        1,926,225  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 2.1%  

Carnival Corp.

    17,000        974,270  

McDonald’s Corp.

    5,100        799,119  

Starbucks Corp.

    23,000        1,123,550  
    

 

 

 
       2,896,939  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.8%  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    13,400        1,046,004  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.4%  

3M Co.

    3,000        590,160  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 1.3%  

Chubb, Ltd.

    5,500          698,610  

Travelers Cos., Inc.

    9,100        1,113,294  
    

 

 

 
       1,811,904  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 1.1%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    4,800        785,232  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
IT Services (continued)  

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.

    5,100        $   684,114  
    

 

 

 
       1,469,346  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 1.1%  

Nucor Corp.

    24,000        1,500,000  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.7%  

Dominion Energy, Inc.

    13,500        920,430  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 3.1%  

Chevron Corp.

    14,400        1,820,592  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    29,400        2,432,262  
    

 

 

 
       4,252,854  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 3.8%  

Johnson & Johnson

    13,200        1,601,688  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    17,400        1,056,180  

Novartis AG, ADR

    15,900        1,201,086  

Pfizer, Inc.

    37,500        1,360,500  
    

 

 

 
       5,219,454  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.7%  

Union Pacific Corp.

    6,900        977,592  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 1.1%  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    8,200        786,544  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    6,000        661,500  
    

 

 

 
       1,448,044  
    

 

 

 
Software - 1.3%  

Microsoft Corp.

    18,700        1,844,007  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 2.2%  

Home Depot, Inc.

    7,700        1,502,270  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    16,000        1,522,880  
    

 

 

 
       3,025,150  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 1.0%  

Fastenal Co.

    27,500        1,323,575  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $46,023,135)

 

     55,688,869  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 3.6%  

American Express Credit Account Master Trust
Series 2017-1, Class B,
2.10%, 09/15/2022

    $  500,000        493,358  

BMW Floorplan Master Owner Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.35% (A), 05/15/2023 (B)

    175,000        175,000  

CarMax Auto Owner Trust
Series 2017-1, Class A2,
1.54%, 02/18/2020

    53,814        53,733  

Chase Issuance Trust
Series 2017-A1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.37% (A), 01/18/2022

    300,000        300,685  

Chesapeake Funding II LLC
Series 2017-4A, Class A1,
2.12%, 11/15/2029 (B)

    500,000        494,411  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Dell Equipment Finance Trust
Series 2017-2, Class A2A,
1.97%, 02/24/2020 (B)

    $   307,545        $   306,366  

Enterprise Fleet Financing LLC

    

Series 2015-2, Class A3,

    

2.09%, 02/22/2021 (B)

    235,556        234,859  

Series 2017-3, Class A2,

    

2.13%, 05/22/2023 (B)

    500,000        495,141  

Ford Credit Floorplan Master Owner Trust
Series 2015-4, Class A1,
1.77%, 08/15/2020

    540,000        539,517  

Nissan Auto Receivables Owner Trust
Series 2015-C, Class A3,
1.37%, 05/15/2020

    426,480        424,408  

Santander Drive Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2014-5, Class C,
2.46%, 06/15/2020

    143,798        143,903  

Synchrony Credit Card Master Note Trust
Series 2017-1, Class B,
2.19%, 06/15/2023

    500,000        490,859  

Verizon Owner Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
2.06%, 09/20/2021 (B)

    750,000        741,457  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $4,899,904)

 

     4,893,697  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 22.4%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.2%  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
2.93%, 01/15/2025

    250,000        237,341  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 3.5%  

Bank of America Corp.

    

Fixed until 07/21/2022, 2.82% (A), 07/21/2023, MTN

    500,000        483,463  

Fixed until 10/01/2024, 3.09% (A), 10/01/2025, MTN

    300,000        285,669  

Bank of Montreal
1.90%, 08/27/2021, MTN

    250,000        239,095  

Citigroup, Inc.
Fixed until 04/23/2028, 4.08% (A), 04/23/2029

    400,000        392,460  

Fifth Third Bancorp
2.30%, 03/01/2019

    300,000        298,933  

Huntington National Bank
2.20%, 04/01/2019

    400,000        398,378  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    

2.97%, 01/15/2023

    250,000        243,490  

3.13%, 01/23/2025

    400,000        382,524  

KeyCorp
5.10%, 03/24/2021, MTN

    750,000        783,064  

PNC Bank NA
2.45%, 07/28/2022

    250,000        241,313  

Regions Financial Corp.

    

2.75%, 08/14/2022

    300,000        289,302  

3.20%, 02/08/2021

    250,000        248,706  

US Bancorp
1.95%, 11/15/2018, MTN

      500,000          498,940  
    

 

 

 
       4,785,337  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Beverages - 0.5%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.
4.90%, 02/01/2046

    $   225,000        $   231,385  

Coca-Cola Co.
2.45%, 11/01/2020

    500,000        496,681  
    

 

 

 
       728,066  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.9%  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.
2.20%, 08/16/2023, MTN

    500,000        469,316  

Cboe Global Markets, Inc.
3.65%, 01/12/2027

    300,000        289,488  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3.20%, 06/05/2020

    400,000        401,164  

Fixed until 09/29/2024,
3.27% (A), 09/29/2025

    500,000        474,762  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.
2.35%, 09/15/2022

    300,000        287,645  

Morgan Stanley

    

3.88%, 01/27/2026, MTN

    250,000        246,089  

4.30%, 01/27/2045

    250,000        236,541  

Nasdaq, Inc.
3.85%, 06/30/2026

    200,000        193,689  
    

 

 

 
       2,598,694  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.4%  

American Express Co.
2.50%, 08/01/2022

    500,000        479,475  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    

2.45%, 04/24/2019

    200,000        199,354  

3.30%, 10/30/2024

    500,000        474,911  

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC
2.94%, 01/08/2019, MTN

    250,000        250,060  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.
3.20%, 07/06/2021

    300,000        296,097  

Synchrony Financial
3.70%, 08/04/2026

    250,000        229,665  
    

 

 

 
       1,929,562  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.3%  

WestRock Co.
3.75%, 03/15/2025 (B)

    500,000        490,188  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.1%  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.
3.13%, 03/15/2026

    100,000        96,350  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.1%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3.00%, 02/15/2022

    400,000        390,554  

4.75%, 05/15/2046

    75,000        66,996  

Verizon Communications
4.33%, 09/21/2028 (B)

    728,000        721,521  

Verizon Communications, Inc.
4.40%, 11/01/2034

    300,000        279,790  
    

 

 

 
       1,458,861  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.2%  

Duke Energy Corp.
3.75%, 09/01/2046

    250,000        220,202  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.1%  

Emerson Electric Co.
5.00%, 04/15/2019

    175,000        177,721  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.2%  

Schlumberger Holdings Corp.
4.00%, 12/21/2025 (B)

    $   300,000        $   298,998  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.3%  

Boston Properties, LP
2.75%, 10/01/2026

    500,000        450,798  

Brixmor Operating Partnership, LP
3.65%, 06/15/2024

    250,000        241,514  

Simon Property Group, LP
3.38%, 03/15/2022

    750,000        747,442  

STORE Capital Corp.
4.50%, 03/15/2028

    200,000        195,658  

Welltower, Inc.
4.50%, 01/15/2024

    200,000        203,370  
    

 

 

 
       1,838,782  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.4%  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    

3.45%, 06/01/2026

    250,000        233,013  

4.50%, 11/18/2034

    300,000        281,732  
    

 

 

 
       514,745  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.2%  

Bunge, Ltd. Finance Corp.
3.25%, 08/15/2026

    250,000        228,181  

Tyson Foods, Inc.
3.55%, 06/02/2027

    75,000        70,955  
    

 

 

 
       299,136  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 1.1%  

CVS Health Corp.

    

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    250,000        246,602  

5.13%, 07/20/2045

    250,000        253,320  

Humana, Inc.
2.50%, 12/15/2020

    250,000        245,379  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
3.60%, 09/01/2027

    300,000        285,091  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.
2.88%, 03/15/2023

    500,000        487,249  
    

 

 

 
       1,517,641  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.4%  

Marriott International, Inc.
3.13%, 06/15/2026

    250,000        232,368  

McDonald’s Corp.
4.88%, 12/09/2045, MTN

    250,000        262,470  
    

 

 

 
       494,838  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.1%  

Carlisle Cos., Inc.
3.50%, 12/01/2024

    200,000        193,043  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.6%  

Aflac, Inc.
3.63%, 11/15/2024

    300,000        297,133  

American International Group, Inc.
4.75%, 04/01/2048

    300,000        289,161  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.
2.55%, 10/15/2018, MTN

    225,000        224,901  
    

 

 

 
       811,195  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.2%  

Amazon.com, Inc.
2.80%, 08/22/2024

    $   300,000        $   289,061  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.6%  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    

3.00%, 08/15/2026

    250,000        229,021  

4.75%, 05/15/2048

    300,000        289,811  

Fiserv, Inc.
2.70%, 06/01/2020

    250,000        247,616  
    

 

 

 
       766,448  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 0.4%  

Caterpillar, Inc.
3.90%, 05/27/2021

    500,000        511,639  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.1%  

Comcast Corp.
5.15%, 03/01/2020

    475,000        490,292  

Discovery Communications LLC
5.00%, 09/20/2037

    250,000        240,713  

Omnicom Group, Inc. / Omnicom Capital, Inc.
3.60%, 04/15/2026

    300,000        287,069  

Warner Media LLC
4.75%, 03/29/2021

    500,000        515,944  
    

 

 

 
       1,534,018  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.4%  

Target Corp.
2.90%, 01/15/2022

    500,000        498,767  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.5%  

Andeavor
3.80%, 04/01/2028

    300,000        283,341  

BP Capital Markets PLC
3.12%, 05/04/2026

    200,000        191,115  

ConocoPhillips Co.
4.15%, 11/15/2034

    129,000        129,310  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC

    

3.75%, 02/15/2025

    500,000        495,122  

5.20%, 09/01/2020

    300,000        312,622  

Exxon Mobil Corp.
4.11%, 03/01/2046

    225,000        229,015  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.
5.55%, 06/01/2045

    450,000        452,986  

Marathon Oil Corp.
2.70%, 06/01/2020

    250,000        246,218  

Phillips 66
4.65%, 11/15/2034

    400,000        403,542  

Valero Energy Corp.
6.63%, 06/15/2037

    250,000        298,935  

Valero Energy Partners, LP
4.50%, 03/15/2028

    400,000        393,261  
    

 

 

 
       3,435,467  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.6%  

Allergan Funding SCS
4.75%, 03/15/2045 (C)

    150,000        144,394  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC
1.90%, 09/23/2019

    200,000        196,857  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Pharmaceuticals (continued)  

Zoetis, Inc.
3.00%, 09/12/2027

    $   500,000        $   462,483  
    

 

 

 
       803,734  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.3%  

Norfolk Southern Corp.
3.25%, 12/01/2021

    400,000        399,161  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 1.1%  

Analog Devices, Inc.
5.30%, 12/15/2045

    175,000        186,409  

Intel Corp.

    

3.30%, 10/01/2021

    925,000        933,941  

3.73%, 12/08/2047

    400,000        376,857  
    

 

 

 
       1,497,207  
    

 

 

 
Software - 1.1%  

Citrix Systems, Inc.
4.50%, 12/01/2027

    70,000        67,836  

Microsoft Corp.
3.00%, 10/01/2020

    400,000        402,629  

Oracle Corp.
4.00%, 07/15/2046

    325,000        306,664  

salesforce.com, Inc.

    

3.25%, 04/11/2023

    500,000        497,068  

3.70%, 04/11/2028

    300,000        297,855  
    

 

 

 
       1,572,052  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.2%  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
8.35%, 07/15/2046 (B)

    75,000        90,324  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.
6.35%, 10/15/2045

    175,000        172,878  
    

 

 

 
       263,202  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.3%  

Air Lease Corp.

    

3.63%, 04/01/2027

    200,000        183,371  

3.75%, 02/01/2022

    300,000        300,350  
    

 

 

 
       483,721  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $31,358,141)

 

     30,745,177  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 0.8%  

Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2014-GC23, Class A2,
2.85%, 07/10/2047

    427,835        427,584  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
3.40%, 07/25/2019

    215,028        215,853  

WFRBS Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2014-LC14, Class A2,
2.86%, 03/15/2047

    473,824        473,921  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $1,118,109)

 

     1,117,358  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 2.6%  
California - 0.8%  

Los Angeles Department of Water & Power Power System Revenue, Revenue Bonds,
6.17%, 07/01/2040

    250,000        265,553  
     Principal      Value  
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
California (continued)  

Palomar Community College District, General Obligation Unlimited,
Series B1,
7.19%, 08/01/2045

    $   425,000        $   464,053  

Rancho Water District Financing Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
6.34%, 08/01/2040

    350,000        374,132  
    

 

 

 
       1,103,738  
    

 

 

 
Florida - 0.4%  

County of Pasco Water & Sewer Revenue, Revenue Bonds,
Series B,
6.76%, 10/01/2039

    500,000        523,100  
    

 

 

 
Massachusetts - 0.4%  

University of Massachusetts Building Authority, Revenue Bonds,
6.57%, 05/01/2039

    500,000        515,205  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.7%  

Metropolitan Transportation Authority,
Revenue Bonds,
6.55%, 11/15/2031

    340,000        421,209  

New York City Transitional Finance Authority Future Tax Secured Revenue, Revenue Bonds,
6.27%, 08/01/2039

    500,000        516,290  
    

 

 

 
       937,499  
    

 

 

 
Oregon - 0.1%  

Washington County School District No. 1, General Obligation Limited,
4.36%, 06/30/2034

    200,000        211,910  
    

 

 

 
Texas - 0.2%  

Northside Independent School District, General Obligation Unlimited,
Series B,
5.74%, 08/15/2035

    325,000        336,560  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $3,877,003)

 

     3,628,012  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 10.6%  

Federal Farm Credit Banks
3.47%, 05/07/2024

    275,000        275,037  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

2.85%, 06/28/2023

    1,000,000        999,767  

2.98%, 11/25/2025

    350,000        344,337  

3.00%, 09/01/2042 - 10/01/2046

    1,652,791        1,609,477  

3.50%, 11/01/2040 - 11/01/2047

    1,725,696        1,726,032  

4.00%, 04/01/2033 - 03/01/2047

    1,136,067        1,165,725  

4.50%, 02/01/2025 - 09/01/2041

    291,628        304,534  

5.00%, 10/01/2039

    156,849        167,410  

5.50%, 01/01/2037

    61,135        66,338  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates

    

2.65%, 08/25/2026

    500,000        476,506  

3.12%, 06/25/2027

    500,000        488,695  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC
5.00%, 07/15/2036

    $  209,625        $  223,461  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

2.47% (A), 03/25/2023

    354,829        343,713  

3.00%, 09/01/2030 - 03/01/2043

    1,625,370        1,603,415  

3.50%, 12/01/2031 - 12/01/2045

    1,925,072        1,938,677  

3.50%, 08/01/2045 (D)

    287,474        286,983  

4.00%, 02/01/2035 - 12/01/2046

    1,584,956        1,627,639  

4.50%, 03/01/2039 - 07/01/2041

    137,769        144,942  

5.00%, 07/01/2035

    5,897        6,315  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

2.50%, 04/25/2040

    121,087        119,632  

3.50%, 04/25/2031

    400,000        404,001  

Government National Mortgage Association

    

3.50%, 12/15/2042

    117,982        118,936  

4.00%, 12/15/2039

    13,558        13,900  

4.50%, 08/15/2040

    9,931        10,505  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $14,903,350)

 

     14,465,977  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 15.8%  
U.S. Treasury - 15.8%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.50%, 02/15/2045

    1,100,000        1,002,934  

2.75%, 08/15/2042 - 11/15/2042

    1,550,000        1,491,290  

3.00%, 05/15/2047

    1,000,000        1,002,930  

4.38%, 05/15/2041

    400,000        494,141  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.50%, 08/15/2026

    2,000,000        1,806,250  

1.63%, 08/15/2022

    2,500,000        2,394,922  

2.00%, 07/31/2020 - 08/15/2025

    9,750,000        9,488,496  

2.13%, 03/31/2024

    2,000,000        1,930,547  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Note (continued)

    

3.13%, 05/15/2021

    $  2,000,000        $  2,027,578  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $22,018,584)

 

     21,639,088  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.1%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (E)

    147,630        147,630  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $147,630)

 

     147,630  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 4.9%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $6,724,474 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $6,859,047.

    $  6,723,969        6,723,969  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $6,723,969)

       6,723,969  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $131,069,825)

       139,049,777  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (1.4)%

       (1,946,405
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  137,103,372  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (F)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 55,688,869     $     $     $ 55,688,869  

Asset-Backed Securities

          4,893,697             4,893,697  

Corporate Debt Securities

          30,745,177             30,745,177  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          1,117,358             1,117,358  

Municipal Government Obligations

          3,628,012             3,628,012  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          14,465,977             14,465,977  

U.S. Government Obligations

          21,639,088             21,639,088  

Securities Lending Collateral

    147,630                   147,630  

Repurchase Agreement

          6,723,969             6,723,969  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 55,836,499     $ 83,213,278     $     $ 139,049,777  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $4,048,265, representing 3.0% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $144,504. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(D)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) security. Security to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Security may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(E)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(F)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $124,345,856)
(including securities loaned of $144,504)

  $   132,325,808  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $6,723,969)

    6,723,969  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Investments sold

    440,129  

Interest

    538,277  

Dividends

    50,464  

Net income from securities lending

    29  

Prepaid expenses

    438  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    140,079,114  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    184,740  

Investments purchased

    2,230,173  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    285,625  

Investment management fees

    79,538  

Distribution and service fees

    27,239  

Transfer agent costs

    223  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    419  

Audit and tax fees

    12,593  

Custody fees

    1,171  

Legal fees

    1,220  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    3,773  

Other

    1,398  

Collateral for securities on loan

    147,630  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    2,975,742  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   137,103,372  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 106,585  

Additional paid-in capital

    119,954,509  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    3,116,850  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    5,945,476  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    7,979,952  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 137,103,372  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    10,658,492  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 12.86  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 791,772  

Interest income

    1,066,513  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    402  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (13,259
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    1,845,428  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    480,781  

Distribution and service fees

    164,651  

Transfer agent costs

    909  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,033  

Audit and tax fees

    12,544  

Custody fees

    11,262  

Legal fees

    3,823  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    2,862  

Other

    1,714  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    680,579  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    1,164,849  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    3,256,877  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (6,616,621
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (3,359,744
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (2,194,895
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,164,849     $ 1,900,265  

Net realized gain (loss)

    3,256,877       2,879,475  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (6,616,621     6,298,411  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (2,194,895     11,078,151  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (1,966,983

Net realized gains

          (2,799,816
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (4,766,799
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    12,448,817       11,774,252  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          4,766,799  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (4,660,820     (7,328,578
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    7,787,997       9,212,473  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    5,593,102       15,523,825  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    131,510,270       115,986,445  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   137,103,372     $   131,510,270  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 3,116,850     $ 1,952,001  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    963,003       918,083  

Shares reinvested

          381,955  

Shares redeemed

    (360,910     (573,279
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    602,093       726,759  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 13.08     $ 12.43     $ 11.86     $ 12.20     $ 11.74     $ 10.79  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.11       0.20       0.20 (B)       0.16       0.13       0.11  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.33     0.96       0.61       (0.15     0.55       0.88  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.22     1.16       0.81       0.01       0.68       0.99  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.21     (0.16     (0.12     (0.08     (0.04

Net realized gains

          (0.30     (0.08     (0.23     (0.14     (0.00 )(C) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.51     (0.24     (0.35     (0.22     (0.04
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.86     $ 13.08     $ 12.43     $ 11.86     $ 12.20     $ 11.74  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.68 )%(E)      9.52     6.84     0.15     5.81     9.22
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   137,103     $   131,510     $   115,986     $   109,733     $   105,561     $   86,054  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.03 %(F)      1.07     1.09     1.09     1.09     1.11

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.03 %(F)      1.07     1.08 %(B)      1.09     1.09     1.11

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.77 %(F)      1.56     1.60 %(B)      1.33     1.12     0.94

Portfolio turnover rate

    18 %(E)      25     29     18     19     12

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data,

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust — Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Corporate Debt Securities

  $ 147,630     $     $     $     $ 147,630  

Total Borrowings

  $ 147,630     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   147,630  
                                         

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.73

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.70  

Over $1 billion

     0.68  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     1.21      May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term    U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  23,248,435    $  9,353,479     $  14,837,925   $  8,503,446

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
 

Gross

(Depreciation)

  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  131,069,825

  $  10,830,776   $  (2,850,824)   $  7,979,952

9. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables — Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Madison Asset Management, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3- and 5-year periods and in line with the median for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica Madison Diversified Income VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,000.80     $   1.59     $   1,023.20     $   1.61       0.32

Service Class

    1,000.00       999.20       2.83       1,022.00       2.86       0.57  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     48.3

U.S. Equity Funds

     35.7  

International Equity Funds

     15.3  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.7  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.7

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 99.3%  

International Equity Funds - 15.3%

 

DeltaShares® S&P International Managed Risk ETF (A) (B)

    2,383,049        $  120,772,923  

Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF

    16,297,255        699,152,239  

Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF

    3,470,363        146,449,319  
    

 

 

 
       966,374,481  
    

 

 

 

U.S. Equity Funds - 35.7%

 

DeltaShares® S&P 400 Managed Risk ETF (A) (B)

    1,035,383        56,058,742  

DeltaShares® S&P 500 Managed Risk ETF (B)

    3,976,403        214,644,643  

DeltaShares® S&P 600 Managed Risk ETF (A) (B)

    336,845        19,154,590  

iShares Core S&P Total US Stock Market ETF (A)

    7,972,965        498,469,772  

Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF (A)

    7,492,257        494,414,040  

Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (A)

    6,849,610        961,890,732  
    

 

 

 
       2,244,632,519  
    

 

 

 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 48.3%

 

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    12,261,208        1,303,611,634  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    21,866,635        1,731,618,826  
    

 

 

 
       3,035,230,460  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $5,904,635,456)

       6,246,237,460  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  

SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.7%

 

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    43,321,375        $   43,321,375  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $43,321,375)

 

     43,321,375  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.7%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $42,523,170 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $43,370,733.

    $  42,519,981        42,519,981  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $42,519,981)

       42,519,981  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $5,990,476,812)

       6,332,078,816  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.7)%

 

     (46,683,866
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  6,285,394,950  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 6,246,237,460     $     $     $ 6,246,237,460  

Securities Lending Collateral

    43,321,375                   43,321,375  

Repurchase Agreement

          42,519,981             42,519,981  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $   6,289,558,835     $   42,519,981     $     $   6,332,078,816  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $42,420,477. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

 

(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
DeltaShares® S&P 400 Managed Risk ETF   $ 69,560,103     $ 1,286,923     $ (15,254,430   $ 1,440,870     $ (974,724   $ 56,058,742       1,035,383     $ 349,007     $  
DeltaShares® S&P 500 Managed Risk ETF     221,747,226       19,286,407       (27,388,084     3,193,494       (2,194,400     214,644,643       3,976,403       1,688,688        
DeltaShares® S&P 600 Managed Risk ETF     30,397,024             (12,410,215     1,346,636       (178,855     19,154,590       336,845       127,026        
DeltaShares® S&P International Managed Risk ETF     131,296,882       10,643,538       (16,140,752     1,517,713       (6,544,458     120,772,923       2,383,049       2,338,816        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $ 453,001,235     $   31,216,868     $   (71,193,481   $   7,498,713     $   (9,892,437   $   410,630,898       7,731,680     $   4,503,537     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(C)

Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.

(D)

The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $387,399,662)

  $ 410,630,898  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $5,560,557,169)
(including securities loaned of $42,420,477)

    5,878,927,937  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $42,519,981)

    42,519,981  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    370  

Interest

    1,063  

Dividends

    2,068,865  

Net income from securities lending

    20,625  

Prepaid expenses

    21,542  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    6,334,191,281  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    2,335,354  

Investment management fees

    1,517,664  

Distribution and service fees

    1,260,526  

Transfer agent costs

    13,078  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    22,355  

Audit and tax fees

    64,501  

Custody fees

    6,183  

Legal fees

    70,268  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    107,407  

Other

    77,620  

Collateral for securities on loan

    43,321,375  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    48,796,331  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   6,285,394,950  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 5,075,058  

Additional paid-in capital

    5,680,350,148  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    156,277,085  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    102,090,655  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    23,231,236  

Unaffiliated investments

    318,370,768  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 6,285,394,950  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 2,788,990  

Service Class

    6,282,605,960  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    222,049  

Service Class

    507,283,748  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.56  

Service Class

    12.38  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income from affiliated investments

   $ 4,503,537  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

     64,070,762  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

     132,234  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     56,610  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     68,763,143  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     9,543,884  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     7,924,824  

Transfer agent costs

     45,740  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     100,022  

Audit and tax fees

     61,186  

Custody fees

     36,896  

Legal fees

     191,428  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     63,492  

Other

     86,555  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     18,054,027  
  

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

  

Initial Class

     (1

Service Class

     (2,465
  

 

 

 

Net expenses

     18,051,561  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     50,711,582  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     7,498,713  

Unaffiliated investments

     172,744,031  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

     180,242,744  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Affiliated investments

     (9,892,437

Unaffiliated investments

       (222,319,801
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (232,212,238
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     (51,969,494
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ (1,257,912
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 50,711,582     $ 105,648,411  

Net realized gain (loss)

     180,242,744       219,049,527  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (232,212,238     474,274,324  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

     (1,257,912     798,972,262  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

    

Initial Class

           (53,423

Service Class

           (106,565,788
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

           (106,619,211
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

    

Initial Class

     207,880       724,370  

Service Class

     18,184,848       26,783,640  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     18,392,728       27,508,010  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

    

Initial Class

           53,423  

Service Class

           106,565,788  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
           106,619,211  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

    

Initial Class

     (654,035     (431,821

Service Class

     (264,960,217     (416,527,196
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (265,614,252     (416,959,017
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

     (247,221,524     (282,831,796
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     (248,479,436     409,521,255  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

    

Beginning of period/year

     6,533,874,386       6,124,353,131  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

   $   6,285,394,950     $   6,533,874,386  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

   $ 156,277,085     $ 105,565,503  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

    

Initial Class

     16,452       60,713  

Service Class

     1,466,283       2,291,823  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     1,482,735       2,352,536  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

    

Initial Class

           4,512  

Service Class

           9,108,187  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
           9,112,699  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

    

Initial Class

     (52,150     (36,082

Service Class

     (21,304,541     (35,361,746
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (21,356,691     (35,397,828
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

    

Initial Class

     (35,698     29,143  

Service Class

     (19,838,258     (23,961,736
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (19,873,956     (23,932,593
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Initial Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 12.55     $ 11.25      $ 11.11     $ 11.92      $ 11.82      $ 10.85  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

     0.11       0.23        0.23 (C)       0.23        0.24        0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (0.10     1.30        0.21       (0.41      0.32        1.06  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     0.01       1.53        0.44       (0.18      0.56        1.26  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.23      (0.21     (0.17      (0.12      (0.14

Net realized gains

                  (0.09     (0.46      (0.34      (0.15
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.23      (0.30     (0.63      (0.46      (0.29
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 12.56     $ 12.55      $ 11.25     $ 11.11      $ 11.92      $ 11.82  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     0.08 %(E)      13.72      3.94     (1.50 )%       4.81      11.76
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   2,789     $   3,235      $   2,571     $   2,311      $   2,449      $   2,818  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.32 %(G)      0.32      0.32     0.33      0.33      0.34

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.32 %(G)(H)(J)      0.32      0.32 %(C)      0.33      0.33      0.34

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

     1.81 %(G)      1.94      2.04 %(C)      1.95      2.00      1.73

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     11 %(E)      25      65     74      164      88

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture in future years.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

     Service Class  
     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
     December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
     December 31,
2014
     December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

   $ 12.39     $ 11.11      $ 10.97     $ 11.79      $ 11.71      $ 10.77  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

     0.10       0.20        0.19 (C)       0.20        0.23        0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (0.11     1.28        0.22       (0.41      0.30        1.01  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investment operations

     (0.01     1.48        0.41       (0.21      0.53        1.21  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

           (0.20      (0.18     (0.15      (0.11      (0.12

Net realized gains

                  (0.09     (0.46      (0.34      (0.15
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

           (0.20      (0.27     (0.61      (0.45      (0.27
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

   $ 12.38     $ 12.39      $ 11.11     $ 10.97      $ 11.79      $ 11.71  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total return (D)

     (0.08 )%(E)      13.44      3.75     (1.77 )%       4.55      11.43
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

   $   6,282,606     $   6,530,639      $   6,121,782     $   5,940,322      $   4,878,563      $   2,882,837  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.57 %(G)      0.57      0.57     0.58      0.58      0.59

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     0.57 %(G)(H)(J)      0.57      0.57 %(C)      0.58      0.58      0.59

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

     1.60 %(G)      1.67      1.76 %(C)      1.77      1.94      1.75

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

     11 %(E)      25      65     74      164      88

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(J)    TAM voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Managed Risk—Balanced ETF VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 43,321,375     $     $     $     $ 43,321,375  

Total Borrowings

  $   43,321,375     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   43,321,375  
                                         

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $50 million

     0.33

Over $50 million up to $250 million

     0.32  

Over $250 million

     0.30  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit 
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.37      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.62        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)

$  9,276,852

  $  —   $  —

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  678,712,469     $  870,876,168

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  5,990,476,812

  $  456,965,336   $  (115,363,332)   $  341,602,004

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2015 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Managed Risk – Balanced ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   993.80     $   1.63     $   1,023.20     $   1.66       0.33

Service Class

    1,000.00       992.90       2.87       1,021.90       2.91       0.58  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     73.6

U.S. Equity Funds

     18.9  

International Equity Funds

     7.0  

Securities Lending Collateral

     5.9  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (6.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 99.5%  
International Equity Funds - 7.0%  

DeltaShares® S&P International Managed Risk ETF (A)

    188,870        $  9,571,932  

Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF

    925,864        39,719,565  

Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF

    202,053        8,526,637  
    

 

 

 
       57,818,134  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 18.9%  

DeltaShares® S&P 400 Managed Risk ETF (A)

    95,966        5,195,887  

DeltaShares® S&P 500 Managed Risk ETF (A)

    371,945        20,077,443  

DeltaShares® S&P 600 Managed Risk ETF (A)

    31,007        1,763,204  

iShares Core S&P Total US Stock Market ETF

    585,412        36,599,958  

Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF

    559,409        36,915,400  

Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (B)

    397,319        55,795,507  
    

 

 

 
       156,347,399  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 73.6%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    1,842,403        195,884,287  

Schwab U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (B)

    3,501,157        177,298,591  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    2,967,107        234,965,203  
    

 

 

 
       608,148,081  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $813,150,877)

       822,313,614  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 5.9%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    49,263,924        $   49,263,924  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $49,263,924)

       49,263,924  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  

REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.7%

 

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $5,598,908 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $5,714,506.

    $  5,598,488        5,598,488  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $5,598,488)

       5,598,488  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $868,013,289)

       877,176,026  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (6.1)%

       (50,404,951
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  826,771,075  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 822,313,614     $     $     $ 822,313,614  

Securities Lending Collateral

    49,263,924                   49,263,924  

Repurchase Agreement

          5,598,488             5,598,488  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 871,577,538     $ 5,598,488     $     $ 877,176,026  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments   Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
DeltaShares® S&P 400 Managed Risk ETF   $ 6,671,637     $     $   (1,475,026   $ 102,421     $ (103,145   $ 5,195,887       95,966     $     32,310     $  
DeltaShares® S&P 500 Managed Risk ETF       21,515,213         1,857,090         (3,248,707       218,294         (264,447       20,077,443       371,945         157,545        
DeltaShares® S&P 600 Managed Risk ETF     2,984,446             (1,311,984     124,947       (34,205     1,763,204       31,007       11,911        

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

Affiliated Investments
(continued)

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
DeltaShares® S&P International Managed Risk ETF   $ 10,935,793     $ 157,165     $ (1,035,416   $ 40,048     $ (525,658   $ 9,571,932       188,870     $ 187,859     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $   42,107,089     $   2,014,255     $   (7,071,133   $   485,710     $   (927,455   $   36,608,466       687,788     $   389,625     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $48,292,542. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $34,430,193)

  $ 36,608,466  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $827,984,608)
(including securities loaned of $48,292,542)

    834,969,072  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $5,598,488)

    5,598,488  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Interest

    140  

Dividends

    151,906  

Net income from securities lending

    3,589  

Prepaid expenses

    2,786  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    877,334,447  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    867,231  

Investment management fees

    202,860  

Distribution and service fees

    165,405  

Transfer agent costs

    1,815  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    3,049  

Audit and tax fees

    14,911  

Custody fees

    1,423  

Legal fees

    10,371  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    21,734  

Other

    10,649  

Collateral for securities on loan

    49,263,924  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    50,563,372  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   826,771,075  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 653,580  

Additional paid-in capital

    754,657,078  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    21,039,985  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    41,257,695  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    2,178,273  

Unaffiliated investments

    6,984,464  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   826,771,075  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 14,180  

Service Class

    826,756,895  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    1,109  

Service Class

    65,356,842  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.78(A )  

Service Class

    12.65  

 

(A)    Actual net asset value per share presented differs from calculated net asset value per share due to rounding.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 389,625  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

    8,345,502  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    17,511  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    42,639  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    8,795,277  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,282,019  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,043,674  

Transfer agent costs

    6,075  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    13,208  

Audit and tax fees

    14,357  

Custody fees

    9,104  

Legal fees

    25,968  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    14,756  

Other

    11,811  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    2,420,972  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Service Class

    (2,466
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    2,418,506  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    6,376,771  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    485,710  

Unaffiliated investments

    37,431,374  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    37,917,084  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (927,455

Unaffiliated investments

    (49,304,411
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (50,231,866
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (12,314,782
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (5,938,011
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 6,376,771     $ 14,718,193  

Net realized gain (loss)

    37,917,084       18,375,201  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (50,231,866     57,056,486  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (5,938,011     90,149,880  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (271

Service Class

          (15,758,011
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (15,758,282
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    597       1,142  

Service Class

    12,181,396       17,545,243  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    12,181,993       17,546,385  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          271  

Service Class

          15,758,011  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          15,758,282  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (174     (1,151

Service Class

    (45,901,539       (111,646,363
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (45,901,713     (111,647,514
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (33,719,720     (78,342,847
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (39,657,731     (3,951,249
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    866,428,806       870,380,055  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   826,771,075     $ 866,428,806  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 21,039,985     $ 14,663,214  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    47       93  

Service Class

    961,061       1,445,609  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    961,108       1,445,702  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          22  

Service Class

          1,299,094  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,299,116  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (14     (94

Service Class

    (3,610,890     (9,164,677
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,610,904     (9,164,771
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    33       21  

Service Class

    (2,649,829     (6,419,974
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,649,796     (6,419,953
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.86     $ 11.80     $ 11.61     $ 12.41     $ 12.30     $ 11.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

           

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.11       0.25       0.24 (C)       0.24       0.26       0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.19     1.07       0.28       (0.29     0.41       0.65  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.08     1.32       0.52       (0.05     0.67       0.88  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

           

Net investment income

          (0.26     (0.22     (0.21     (0.18     (0.17

Net realized gains

                (0.11     (0.54     (0.38     (0.17
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.26     (0.33     (0.75     (0.56     (0.34
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $   12.78     $   12.86     $   11.80     $   11.61     $   12.41     $   12.30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.62 )%(E)      11.30     4.36     (0.40 )%      5.48     7.67
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

           

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 14     $ 14     $ 12     $ 12     $ 12     $ 11  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

           

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.33 %(G)      0.33     0.32     0.34     0.35     0.35

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.33 %(G)(H)      0.33     0.32 %(C)      0.34     0.35     0.35

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.78 %(G)      1.97     2.06 %(C)      1.98     2.08     1.88

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    26 %(E)      28     21     38     96     86

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.74     $ 11.69     $ 11.51     $ 12.32     $ 12.22     $ 11.69  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

           

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.10       0.21       0.21 (C)       0.21       0.23       0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.19     1.07       0.27       (0.30     0.41       0.65  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.09     1.28       0.48       (0.09     0.64       0.85  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

           

Net investment income

          (0.23     (0.19     (0.18     (0.16     (0.15

Net realized gains

                (0.11     (0.54     (0.38     (0.17
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.23     (0.30     (0.72     (0.54     (0.32
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.65     $ 12.74     $ 11.69     $ 11.51     $ 12.32     $ 12.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.71 )%(E)      11.03     4.08     (0.69 )%      5.24     7.47
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

           

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   826,757     $   866,415     $   870,368     $   823,777     $   755,641     $   573,898  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

           

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.58 %(G)      0.58     0.57     0.59     0.59     0.60

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.58 %(G)(H)      0.58     0.57 %(C)      0.59     0.59     0.60

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.53 %(G)      1.70     1.80 %(C)      1.74     1.89     1.66

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    26 %(E)      28     21     38     96     86

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Managed Risk—Conservative ETF VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust — Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 49,263,924     $     $     $     $ 49,263,924  

Total Borrowings

  $ 49,263,924     $     $     $     $   49,263,924  
                                         

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

All of the Portfolio holdings in investment companies are considered affiliated. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains (losses) are broken out within the Statement of Operations.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $50 million

     0.34

Over $50 million up to $250 million

     0.32  

Over $250 million

     0.30  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.37      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.62        May 1, 2019  

 

(A)   TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)

$  429,933

  $  —   $  —

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  215,219,657     $  241,249,891

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
 

Gross

(Depreciation)

  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  868,013,289

  $  26,967,455   $  (17,804,718)   $  9,162,737

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2015 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Conservative ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   995.60     $   1.58     $   1,023.20     $   1.61       0.32

Service Class

    1,000.00       994.60       2.82       1,022.00       2.86       0.57  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     55.0

International Equity Funds

     24.0  

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     20.4  

Securities Lending Collateral

     2.7  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.4  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (2.5

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 99.4%  
International Equity Funds - 24.0%  

DeltaShares® S&P International Managed Risk ETF (A)

    1,736,978        $  88,030,045  

Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF

    12,758,602        547,344,026  

Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF

    2,817,384        118,893,605  
    

 

 

 
       754,267,676  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 55.0%  

DeltaShares® S&P 400 Managed Risk ETF (A)

    798,838        43,251,486  

DeltaShares® S&P 500 Managed Risk ETF (A)

    3,088,608        166,721,824  

DeltaShares® S&P 600 Managed Risk ETF (A)

    254,763        14,487,022  

iShares Core S&P Total US Stock Market ETF

    5,960,574        372,655,087  

Schwab U.S. Broad Market ETF

    5,532,765        365,107,162  

Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (B)

    5,430,808        762,648,367  
    

 

 

 
       1,724,870,948  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 20.4%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    2,988,100        317,694,792  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    4,065,153        321,919,466  
    

 

 

 
       639,614,258  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $2,976,954,116)

       3,118,752,882  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 2.7%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    84,620,354        $   84,620,354  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $84,620,354)

       84,620,354  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  

REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.4%

 

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $13,616,962 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $13,890,336.

    $  13,615,941        13,615,941  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $13,615,941)

       13,615,941  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $3,075,190,412)

       3,216,989,177  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (2.5)%

 

     (79,722,487
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  3,137,266,690  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 3,118,752,882     $     $     $ 3,118,752,882  

Securities Lending Collateral

    84,620,354                   84,620,354  

Repurchase Agreement

          13,615,941             13,615,941  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 3,203,373,236     $ 13,615,941     $     $ 3,216,989,177  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated Investments

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 
DeltaShares® S&P 400 Managed Risk ETF   $ 54,248,162     $     $ (11,036,717   $ 788,492     $ (748,451   $ 43,251,486       798,838     $ 271,567     $  
DeltaShares® S&P 500 Managed Risk ETF     174,175,888       10,611,940       (17,722,994     1,244,922       (1,587,932     166,721,824       3,088,608       1,320,286        
DeltaShares® S&P 600 Managed Risk ETF     23,764,939             (10,072,174     1,003,308       (209,051     14,487,022       254,763       99,096        
DeltaShares® S&P International Managed Risk ETF     99,203,735       3,321,716       (10,186,628     486,796       (4,795,574     88,030,045       1,736,978       1,703,738        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total   $   351,392,724     $   13,933,656     $   (49,018,513   $   3,523,518     $   (7,341,008   $   312,490,377       5,879,187     $   3,394,687     $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(B)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $82,954,529. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $294,085,829)

  $ 312,490,377  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $2,767,488,642)
(including securities loaned of $82,954,529)

    2,890,882,859  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $13,615,941)

    13,615,941  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Investments sold

    3,636,808  

Interest

    340  

Dividends

    4,390,079  

Net income from securities lending

    9,191  

Prepaid expenses

    11,320  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    3,225,036,915  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    1,544,615  

Investment management fees

    766,441  

Distribution and service fees

    634,228  

Transfer agent costs

    6,784  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    12,099  

Audit and tax fees

    36,353  

Custody fees

    10,348  

Legal fees

    35,455  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    63,083  

Other

    40,465  

Collateral for securities on loan

    84,620,354  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    87,770,225  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   3,137,266,690  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 2,834,597  

Additional paid-in capital

    2,746,838,343  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    74,824,645  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    170,970,340  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    18,404,548  

Unaffiliated investments

    123,394,217  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 3,137,266,690  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 4,141,572  

Service Class

    3,133,125,118  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    367,919  

Service Class

    283,091,740  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 11.26  

Service Class

    11.07  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 3,394,687  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

    30,439,186  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    62,695  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    97,018  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    33,993,586  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    4,868,300  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    4,027,134  

Transfer agent costs

    23,544  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    51,130  

Audit and tax fees

    34,773  

Custody fees

    54,714  

Legal fees

    97,374  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    37,085  

Other

    44,264  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    9,238,318  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (3

Service Class

    (2,463
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    9,235,852  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    24,757,734  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    3,523,518  

Unaffiliated investments

    242,597,545  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    246,121,063  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (7,341,008

Unaffiliated investments

      (281,459,942
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (288,800,950
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (42,679,887
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (17,922,153
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 24,757,734     $ 50,148,064  

Net realized gain (loss)

    246,121,063       189,737,709  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (288,800,950     304,064,123  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (17,922,153     543,949,896  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (79,171

Service Class

          (51,698,225
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (51,777,396
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    380,037       815,070  

Service Class

    2,697,282       30,724,983  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    3,077,319       31,540,053  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          79,171  

Service Class

          51,698,225  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          51,777,396  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (533,110     (1,513,388

Service Class

    (205,705,677     (286,535,741
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (206,238,787     (288,049,129
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (203,161,468     (204,731,680
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (221,083,621     287,440,820  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

      3,358,350,311       3,070,909,491  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $ 3,137,266,690     $   3,358,350,311  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 74,824,645     $ 50,066,911  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    33,758       77,130  

Service Class

    238,193       2,983,861  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    271,951       3,060,991  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Shares reinvested:    

Initial Class

          7,613  

Service Class

          5,043,729  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          5,051,342  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Shares redeemed:    

Initial Class

    (46,828     (145,223

Service Class

    (18,453,697     (27,733,646
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (18,500,525     (27,878,869
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (13,070     (60,480

Service Class

    (18,215,504     (19,706,056
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (18,228,574     (19,766,536
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.31     $ 9.70     $ 9.41     $ 10.84     $ 11.14     $ 9.67  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.10       0.19       0.17 (C)       0.16       0.23       0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.15     1.61       0.30       (0.51     0.24       1.62  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.05     1.80       0.47       (0.35     0.47       1.82  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.19     (0.18     (0.18     (0.13     (0.14

Net realized gains

                      (0.90     (0.64     (0.21
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.19     (0.18     (1.08     (0.77     (0.35
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.26     $ 11.31     $ 9.70     $ 9.41     $ 10.84     $ 11.14  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.44 )%(E)      18.78     4.97     (3.17 )%      4.17     19.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   4,142     $   4,308     $   4,282     $   5,674     $   13,263     $   9,510  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.32 %(G)      0.32     0.32     0.33     0.33     0.34

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.32 %(G)(H)      0.32     0.31 %(C)      0.33     0.33     0.34

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.81 %(G)      1.80     1.83 %(C)      1.50     2.03     1.92

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    57 %(E)      36     126     178     304     98

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.13     $ 9.55     $ 9.27     $ 10.71     $ 11.02     $ 9.58  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.08       0.16       0.15 (C)       0.16       0.20       0.18  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.14     1.59       0.28       (0.54     0.24       1.60  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.06     1.75       0.43       (0.38     0.44       1.78  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.17     (0.15     (0.16     (0.11     (0.13

Net realized gains

                      (0.90     (0.64     (0.21
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.17     (0.15     (1.06     (0.75     (0.34
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.07     $ 11.13     $ 9.55     $ 9.27     $ 10.71     $ 11.02  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (0.54 )%(E)      18.47     4.67     (3.51 )%      3.97     18.78
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   3,133,125     $   3,354,042     $   3,066,627     $   3,181,172     $   3,197,822     $   2,216,941  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.57 %(G)      0.57     0.57     0.58     0.58     0.59

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.57 %(G)(H)      0.57     0.56 %(C)      0.58     0.58     0.59

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.53 %(G)      1.56     1.66 %(C)      1.54     1.80     1.69

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    57 %(E)      36     126     178     304     98

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Waiver and/or reimbursement rounds to less than 0.01%.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Managed Risk—Growth ETF VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions, if any, received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions, if any, received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 84,620,354     $     $     $     $   84,620,354  

Total Borrowings

  $ 84,620,354     $     $     $     $ 84,620,354  
                                         

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $50 million

     0.34

Over $50 million up to $250 million

     0.32  

Over $250 million

     0.30  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit (A)
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.37    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.62      May 1, 2019

 

(A)   TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)

$  —

  $  9,276,617   $  418,414

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  1,836,487,588     $  2,011,715,318

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  3,075,190,412   $  162,666,087   $  (20,867,322)   $  141,798,765

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2015 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Managed Risk – Growth ETF VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,012.50     $   4.79     $   1,020.00     $   4.81       0.96
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Government Obligations

     51.6

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     29.3  

Over-the-Counter Options Purchased

     13.5  

Repurchase Agreement

     5.2  

Securities Lending Collateral

     1.4  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation

     0.3  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (1.3

Total

     100
  

 

 

 

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 29.3%  

Federal Home Loan Banks

    

1.38%, 02/18/2021 (A)

    $  13,000,000        $  12,584,468  

1.88%, 11/29/2021

    30,000,000        29,187,750  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

1.25%, 10/02/2019

    17,000,000        16,741,702  

2.38%, 01/13/2022

    25,000,000        24,671,850  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

2.00%, 01/05/2022

    43,000,000        41,911,842  

6.25%, 05/15/2029

    4,500,000        5,779,998  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $133,587,799)

 

     130,877,610  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 51.6%  
U.S. Treasury - 51.6%  

U.S. Treasury Bond, Principal Only STRIPS

    

08/15/2022 - 08/15/2024

    269,000,000        230,178,372  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $238,126,739)

 

     230,178,372  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATION - 0.3%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.89% (B), 09/20/2018 (C)

    1,100,000        1,095,343  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation
(Cost $1,095,343)

 

     1,095,343  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.4%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (B)

    6,148,331        $   6,148,331  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $6,148,331)

 

     6,148,331  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 5.2%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $23,313,228 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $23,781,616.

    $  23,311,479        23,311,479  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $23,311,479)

 

     23,311,479  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options
(Cost $402,269,691)

 

     391,611,135  

Total Purchased Options - 13.5%
(Cost $72,317,058)

 

     60,138,980  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $474,586,749)

 

     451,750,115  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)  - (1.3)%

 

     (5,678,515
    

 

 

 

Net Assets  - 100.0%

       $  446,071,600  
    

 

 

 
 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Counterparty   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - S&P 500® - Flexible Exchange Option

  GSC     USD  2,850.00       07/20/2023       USD       190,285,900       700     $ 35,921,229     $ 29,790,683  

Call - S&P 500® - Flexible Exchange Option

  GSC     USD  2,900.00       01/22/2024       USD       190,285,900       700       36,395,829       30,348,297  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

          $   72,317,058     $   60,138,980  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                       
Description    Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Long       161       09/21/2018     $   22,401,036     $   21,908,880     $   —     $   (492,156

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

  $     $ 130,877,610     $     $ 130,877,610  

U.S. Government Obligations

          230,178,372             230,178,372  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligation

          1,095,343             1,095,343  

Securities Lending Collateral

    6,148,331                   6,148,331  

Repurchase Agreement

          23,311,479             23,311,479  

Over-the-Counter Options Purchased

          60,138,980             60,138,980  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 6,148,331     $ 445,601,784     $     $ 451,750,115  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (E)

  $ (492,156   $     $     $ (492,156
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (492,156   $     $     $ (492,156
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the security is on loan. The value of the security on loan is $6,020,925. The amount on loan indicated may not correspond with the security on loan identified because a security with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $1,095,343.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(E)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATION:

 

GSC    Goldman Sachs & Co.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $451,275,270)
(including securities loaned of $6,020,925)

  $ 428,438,636  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $23,311,479)

    23,311,479  

Cash

    67,620  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Interest

    895,152  

Net income from securities lending

    900  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    16,905  

Prepaid expenses

    1,531  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    452,732,223  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    123,618  

Investment management fees

    243,338  

Distribution and service fees

    89,463  

Transfer agent costs

    989  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,678  

Audit and tax fees

    13,569  

Custody fees

    4,905  

Legal fees

    5,778  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    23,167  

Other

    5,787  

Collateral for securities on loan

    6,148,331  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    6,660,623  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   446,071,600  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 344,129  

Additional paid-in capital

    375,230,761  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    3,353,902  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    90,471,598  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (22,836,634

Futures contracts

    (492,156
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 446,071,600  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    34,412,857  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 12.96  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 3,949,335  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    10,513  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    3,959,848  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,546,007  

Distribution and service fees

    568,385  

Transfer agent costs

    3,311  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    7,237  

Audit and tax fees

    12,939  

Custody fees

    22,921  

Legal fees

    14,200  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    12,050  

Other

    6,479  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,193,529  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    1,766,319  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    66,545,356  

Futures contracts

    (460,278
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    66,085,078  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (61,334,560

Futures contracts

    (498,543
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (61,833,103
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    4,251,975  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   6,018,294  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,766,319     $ 1,640,561  

Net realized gain (loss)

    66,085,078       24,573,501  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (61,833,103     22,184,291  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    6,018,294       48,398,353  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (1,461,545
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    894,665       2,059,131  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          1,461,545  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (30,035,551     (68,862,427
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (29,140,886     (65,341,751
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (23,122,592     (18,404,943
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    469,194,192       487,599,135  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   446,071,600     $   469,194,192  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 3,353,902     $ 1,587,583  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    68,316       171,239  

Shares reinvested

          121,999  

Shares redeemed

    (2,308,395     (5,710,385
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    (2,240,079     (5,417,147
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.80     $ 11.59     $ 11.30     $ 12.12     $ 11.36     $ 9.94  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.05       0.04       0.03 (B)       0.02       (0.02     (0.06

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.11       1.21       0.44       (0.42     0.93       1.48  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.16       1.25       0.47       (0.40     0.91       1.42  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.04     (0.02                  

Net realized gains

                (0.16     (0.42     (0.15     (0.00 )(C) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.04     (0.18     (0.42     (0.15     (0.00 )(C) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.96     $ 12.80     $ 11.59     $ 11.30     $ 12.12     $ 11.36  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    1.25 %(E)      10.79     4.16     (3.24 )%      8.04     14.30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   446,072     $   469,194     $   487,599     $   484,386     $   446,553     $   184,573  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(F)      0.97     0.96     0.96     0.97     1.03

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(F)      0.97     0.96 %(B)      0.96     0.97     1.06

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.78 %(F)      0.35     0.29 %(B)      0.16     (0.18 )%      (0.52 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    28 %(E)      99     36     18     16     13

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as non-diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
     Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

          

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

  $ 6,148,331     $     $      $     $ 6,148,331  

Total Borrowings

  $ 6,148,331     $     $      $     $   6,148,331  
                                          

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
   

Equity

Contracts

    

Credit

Contracts

     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $     $     $   60,138,980      $               —      $               —      $ 60,138,980  

Total

  $     $     $ 60,138,980      $      $      $   60,138,980  
                                                    
Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (B) (C)

  $     $     $ (492,156    $      $      $ (492,156

Total

  $     $     $ (492,156    $               —      $               —      $ (492,156
                                                    

 

(A)   Included within Investments, at value on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(C)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

     Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $   —     $   —     $   66,902,627     $   —     $   —     $   66,902,627  

Futures contracts

                (460,278                 (460,278

Total

  $     $     $ 66,442,349     $     $     $ 66,442,349  
                                                 

 

     Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (B)

  $   —     $   —     $   (54,074,848   $   —     $   —     $   (54,074,848

Futures contracts

                (498,543                 (498,543

Total

  $     $     $ (54,573,391   $     $     $ (54,573,391
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments within the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments within the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options and

Swaptions at value

     

Futures Contracts at

Notional Amount

Calls   Puts        Long   Short
$  67,962,966   $  —     6,979  

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.68

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.65  

Over $1 billion up to $1.5 billion

     0.62  

Over $1.5 billion

     0.60  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
   Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Service Class

   1.07%    May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  72,317,058   $  50,068,329     $  133,077,764   $  29,923,367

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost  

Gross

Appreciation

 

Gross

(Depreciation)

  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  474,586,749   $  68,717   $  (23,397,507)   $  (23,328,790)

9. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Quantitative Management Associates LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 5-year period and below the median for the past 1- and 3-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Trustees also noted recent changes in the Portfolio’s portfolio management team. The Trustees noted that TAM intends to monitor and report to the Board on the portfolio manager transition and performance going forward. The Trustees observed that the performance of the Portfolio had improved during the first quarter of 2018.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Market Participation Strategy VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,192.10     $   4.73     $   1,020.50     $   4.36       0.87

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,190.60       6.08       1,019.20       5.61       1.12  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     96.2

Securities Lending Collateral

     3.1  

Repurchase Agreement

     2.9  

Over-the-Counter Foreign Exchange Options Purchased

     0.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (2.3

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 96.2%  
Biotechnology - 1.6%  

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    31,285        $  3,081,260  

Bluebird Bio, Inc. (A)

    4,599        721,813  

Editas Medicine, Inc. (A)

    27,817        996,683  

Intellia Therapeutics, Inc. (A) (B)

    37,199        1,017,765  

Intrexon Corp. (A) (B)

    60,275        840,233  
    

 

 

 
       6,657,754  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 3.2%  

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.

    29,115        6,502,253  

Vulcan Materials Co.

    51,697        6,672,015  
    

 

 

 
       13,174,268  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 5.2%  

DexCom, Inc. (A)

    116,966        11,109,430  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (A)

    22,560        10,794,509  
    

 

 

 
       21,903,939  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 9.1%  

athenahealth, Inc. (A)

    99,043        15,761,703  

Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A (A)

    293,670        22,571,476  
    

 

 

 
       38,333,179  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 4.3%  

Starbucks Corp.

    369,164        18,033,661  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 11.4%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    22,340        37,973,532  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    4,873        9,878,010  
    

 

 

 
       47,851,542  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 23.3%  

Alibaba Group Holding, Ltd., ADR (A)

    20,122        3,733,235  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    18,102        20,195,496  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

      103,719        20,154,676  

MercadoLibre, Inc.

    20,499        6,127,766  

Spotify Technology SA (A)

    38,731        6,516,103  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

    107,700        5,405,866  

Twitter, Inc. (A)

    657,377        28,707,654  

Zillow Group, Inc., Class C (A) (B)

    120,218        7,100,075  
    

 

 

 
       97,940,871  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 5.0%  

Illumina, Inc. (A)

    75,453        21,073,268  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.1%  

Nektar Therapeutics (A)

    9,489        463,348  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 4.9%  

Union Pacific Corp.

    144,651        20,494,154  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.9%  

NVIDIA Corp.

    16,485        3,905,297  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Software - 22.7%  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    275,598        $   21,033,639  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    25,501        6,217,399  

Autodesk, Inc. (A)

    47,468        6,222,580  

Intuit, Inc.

    32,183        6,575,148  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    164,961        22,500,680  

ServiceNow, Inc. (A)

    81,184        14,001,805  

Snap, Inc., Class A (A) (B)

    354,174        4,636,138  

Workday, Inc., Class A (A)

    115,453        13,983,667  
    

 

 

 
       95,171,056  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 4.5%  

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

    56,977        18,976,564  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $292,374,676)

 

     403,978,901  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 3.1%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    13,293,666        13,293,666  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $13,293,666)

 

     13,293,666  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 2.9%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $12,179,912 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $12,422,621.

    $  12,178,999        12,178,999  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $12,178,999)

 

     12,178,999  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options
(Cost $317,847,341)

 

     429,451,566  

Total Purchased Options - 0.1%
(Cost $1,016,267)

 

     355,662  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $318,863,608)

 

     429,807,228  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (2.3)%

 

     (9,778,694
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  420,028,534  
    

 

 

 
 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER FOREIGN EXCHANGE OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description    Counterparty      Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional Amount/
Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Call - USD vs. CNH (D)

     RBS        USD        7.16        01/18/2019        USD        84,317,417      $ 365,938      $ 299,496  

Call - USD vs. CNH (D)

     RBS        USD        7.52        11/02/2018        USD        81,238,213        336,326        52,967  

Call - USD vs. CNH (D)

     GSC        USD        7.55        08/16/2018        USD        59,245,827        314,003        3,199  
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                     $   1,016,267      $   355,662  
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (E)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 379,596,471     $ 24,382,430     $     $ 403,978,901  

Securities Lending Collateral

    13,293,666                   13,293,666  

Repurchase Agreement

          12,178,999             12,178,999  

Over-the-Counter Foreign Exchange Options Purchased

          355,662             355,662  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 392,890,137     $ 36,917,091     $     $ 429,807,228  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $12,975,929. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $355,662 or 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CNH    Chinese Yuan Renminbi (offshore)
USD    United States Dollar

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

GSC    Goldman Sachs & Co.
RBS    Royal Bank of Scotland PLC

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $306,684,609)
(including securities loaned of $12,975,929)

  $ 417,628,229  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $12,178,999)

    12,178,999  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $588)

    584  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    16,149  

Investments sold

    4,513,092  

Interest

    304  

Net income from securities lending

    16,148  

Prepaid expenses

    1,327  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    434,354,832  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

OTC derivatives (A)

    350,000  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    321,084  

Investment management fees

    280,893  

Distribution and service fees

    26,957  

Transfer agent costs

    464  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    960  

Audit and tax fees

    11,173  

Custody fees

    5,794  

Legal fees

    3,278  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    28,513  

Other

    3,516  

Collateral for securities on loan

    13,293,666  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    14,326,298  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 420,028,534  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 196,659  

Additional paid-in capital

    201,962,374  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    (921,168

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    107,847,053  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    110,943,620  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (4
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   420,028,534  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 286,984,446  

Service Class

    133,044,088  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    13,328,696  

Service Class

    6,337,204  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 21.53  

Service Class

    20.99  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 840,430  

Interest income

    46,774  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    51,632  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (30,128
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    908,708  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,601,194  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    149,054  

Transfer agent costs

    2,461  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    5,941  

Audit and tax fees

    10,924  

Custody fees

    29,689  

Legal fees

    11,272  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    15,087  

Other

    4,254  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    1,829,876  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    (921,168
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    34,144,258  

Foreign currency transactions

    (71
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    34,144,187  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    33,191,810  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (4
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    33,191,806  
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    67,335,993  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   66,414,825  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ (921,168   $ (1,832,549

Net realized gain (loss)

    34,144,187       75,742,982  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    33,191,806       28,150,633  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    66,414,825       102,061,066  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (14,302,903

Service Class

          (6,062,132
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (20,365,035
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    17,933,654       20,278,298  

Service Class

    15,573,054       21,862,449  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    33,506,708       42,140,747  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          14,302,903  

Service Class

          6,062,132  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          20,365,035  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (16,729,376     (25,168,006

Service Class

    (6,484,269     (7,450,008
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (23,213,645     (32,618,014
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    10,293,063       29,887,768  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    76,707,888       111,583,799  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    343,320,646       231,736,847  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   420,028,534     $   343,320,646  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ (921,168   $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    885,530       1,203,656  

Service Class

    791,356       1,352,383  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,676,886       2,556,039  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          868,422  

Service Class

          376,764  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,245,186  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (836,052     (1,508,295

Service Class

    (327,362     (465,173
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,163,414     (1,973,468
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    49,478       563,783  

Service Class

    463,994       1,263,974  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    513,472       1,827,757  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 18.06     $ 13.45     $ 16.03     $ 15.68     $ 15.13     $ 10.32  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    (0.04     (0.09     (0.04 )(B)      (0.06     (0.04     (0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    3.51       5.84       (0.20     1.80       0.95       4.96  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    3.47       5.75       (0.24     1.74       0.91       4.95  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

 

Net investment income

                                  (0.08

Net realized gains

          (1.14     (2.34     (1.39     (0.36     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (1.14     (2.34     (1.39     (0.36     (0.14
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 21.53     $ 18.06     $ 13.45     $ 16.03     $ 15.68     $ 15.13  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    19.21 %(D)      43.59     (2.26 )%      11.79     6.00     48.25
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   286,985     $   239,786     $   170,984     $   200,273     $   204,432     $   208,314  

Expenses to average net assets

 

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.87 %(E)      0.87     0.88     0.87     0.88     0.88

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.87 %(E)      0.87     0.87 %(B)      0.87     0.88     0.90

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    (0.40 )%(E)      (0.54 )%      (0.24 )%(B)      (0.39 )%      (0.27 )%      (0.05 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    25 %(D)      61     39     31     29     30

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 17.63     $ 13.18     $ 15.79     $ 15.51     $ 15.00     $ 10.24  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    (0.06     (0.13     (0.07 )(B)      (0.11     (0.08     (0.04

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    3.42       5.72       (0.20     1.78       0.95       4.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    3.36       5.59       (0.27     1.67       0.87       4.88  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

 

Net investment income

                                  (0.06

Net realized gains

          (1.14     (2.34     (1.39     (0.36     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (1.14     (2.34     (1.39     (0.36     (0.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 20.99     $ 17.63     $ 13.18     $ 15.79     $ 15.51     $ 15.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    19.06 %(D)      43.26     (2.50 )%      11.45     5.79     47.89
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   133,044     $   103,535     $   60,753     $   60,939     $   40,691     $   36,515  

Expenses to average net assets

 

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.12 %(E)      1.12     1.13     1.12     1.13     1.13

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.12 %(E)      1.12     1.12 %(B)      1.12     1.13     1.15

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    (0.65 )%(E)      (0.79 )%      (0.50 )%(B)      (0.66 )%      (0.52 )%      (0.34 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    25 %(D)      61     39     31     29     30

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $639.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
     Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 13,293,666     $     $     $      $ 13,293,666  

Total Borrowings

  $   13,293,666     $     $     $   —      $   13,293,666  
                                          

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Options on foreign currency: The Portfolio may purchase or write foreign currency options. Purchasing or writing options on foreign currency gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the currency and will specify the amount of currency and a rate of exchange that may be exercised by a specified date.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $     $ 355,662     $     $     $      $ 355,662  

Total

  $   —     $   355,662     $     $   —     $   —      $   355,662  
                                                  

 

(A)    Included within Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $     $ (109,664   $     $     $      $ (109,664

Total

  $   —     $   (109,664   $   —     $   —     $   —      $   (109,664
                                                  

 

(A)    Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options and Swaptions at value
Calls   Puts
$  215,426   $  —

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
         

 

    Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
       
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Net Amount     Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
    Net Amount  
    Assets           Liabilities  

Goldman Sachs & Co.

  $ 3,199     $     $     $ 3,199       $     $     $     $  

Royal Bank of Scotland PLC.

    352,463             (350,000     2,463                            

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   355,662     $   —     $   (350,000   $   5,662       $   —     $   —     $   —     $   —  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK FACTOR

 

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Growth risk: Returns on growth stocks may not move in tandem with returns on other categories of stocks or the market as a whole. Growth stocks typically are particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect future expectations. When it appears those expectations may not be met, the prices of growth securities typically fall. Growth stocks as a group may be out of favor and underperform the overall equity market for a long period of time, for example, while the market favors “value” stocks.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.830

Over $500 million

     0.705  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.90      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.15        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolios for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolios’ operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: Brokerage commissions incurred on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub adviser.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, brokerage commissions are $3,730.

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  103,310,301   $  —     $  94,521,764   $  —

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  318,863,608   $  120,707,110   $  (9,763,490)   $  110,943,620

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Morgan Stanley Investment Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe and above its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on March 21, 2011 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Morgan Stanley Capital Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,002.00     $   3.28     $   1,021.50     $   3.31       0.66

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,000.70       4.51       1,020.30       4.56       0.91  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     60.1

Corporate Debt Securities

     16.1  

U.S. Government Obligations

     7.7  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     6.5  

Commercial Paper

     4.2  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     3.7  

Asset-Backed Securities

     3.7  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.0  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     1.0  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.8  

Foreign Government Obligations

     0.5  

Municipal Government Obligations

     0.3  

Preferred Stocks

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (5.6

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 60.1%      
Aerospace & Defense - 1.3%  

Boeing Co.

    9,800        $  3,287,998  

General Dynamics Corp.

    31,799        5,927,651  

Harris Corp.

    5,140        742,936  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    18,752        5,769,990  

United Technologies Corp.

    49,622        6,204,239  
    

 

 

 
       21,932,814  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.3%  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    94,622        4,687,574  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (A)

    11,246        784,183  
    

 

 

 
       5,471,757  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.2%  

Aptiv PLC

    22,626        2,073,220  

Delphi Technologies PLC

    24,408        1,109,588  
    

 

 

 
       3,182,808  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.3%  

Ford Motor Co.

    467,798        5,178,524  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 3.5%  

Bank of America Corp.

    713,525        20,114,270  

BB&T Corp.

    55,800        2,814,552  

Citigroup, Inc.

    210,382        14,078,763  

Fifth Third Bancorp

    23,700        680,190  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.

    140,600        2,075,256  

KeyCorp

    154,841        3,025,593  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    55,180        3,642,984  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    2,419        698,510  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    234,643        13,008,608  
    

 

 

 
       60,138,726  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 1.6%  

Coca-Cola Co.

    152,662        6,695,755  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    12,224        2,675,467  

Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B

    99,689        6,782,840  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    111,097        12,095,130  
    

 

 

 
       28,249,192  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 1.5%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    48,770        4,518,541  

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    10,048        1,247,459  

Amgen, Inc.

    16,600        3,064,194  

Biogen, Inc. (A)

    15,203        4,412,519  

Celgene Corp. (A)

    35,032        2,782,241  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    77,761        5,508,589  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    21,582        3,668,077  
    

 

 

 
       25,201,620  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.4%  

Allegion PLC

    40,043        3,097,726  

Masco Corp.

    105,257        3,938,717  
    

 

 

 
       7,036,443  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.0%  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    62,978        3,396,404  

BlackRock, Inc.

    2,800        1,397,312  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    96,414        4,926,755  

CME Group, Inc.

    6,500        1,065,480  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    54,978        4,043,632  

Morgan Stanley

    199,202        9,442,175  

State Street Corp.

    86,248        8,028,826  

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    12,700        1,474,343  
    

 

 

 
       33,774,927  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)      
Chemicals - 1.2%  

Celanese Corp., Series A

    22,363        $   2,483,635  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    197,273        13,004,236  

Eastman Chemical Co.

    53,326        5,330,467  
    

 

 

 
       20,818,338  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.2%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    65,095        2,801,038  

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

    4,700        546,939  
    

 

 

 
       3,347,977  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.5%  

American Express Co.

    12,153        1,190,994  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    74,728        6,867,503  
    

 

 

 
       8,058,497  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.2%  

Crown Holdings, Inc. (A)

    33,923        1,518,394  

WestRock Co.

    46,665        2,660,838  
    

 

 

 
       4,179,232  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.0% (B)  

H&R Block, Inc.

    18,400        419,152  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.9%  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (A)

    80,178        14,965,224  

Voya Financial, Inc.

    10,622        499,234  
    

 

 

 
       15,464,458  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.5%  

AT&T, Inc.

    124,889        4,010,186  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    82,205        4,135,733  
    

 

 

 
       8,145,919  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 1.3%  

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

    43,404        3,005,727  

Exelon Corp.

    115,565        4,923,069  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    61,285        10,236,434  

PG&E Corp.

    22,300        949,088  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    88,596        4,047,065  
    

 

 

 
       23,161,383  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.4%  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    83,679        6,254,168  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.3%  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

    25,334        4,354,661  

Brixmor Property Group, Inc.

    25,400        442,722  

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

    7,000        781,060  

Equinix, Inc.

    4,212        1,810,697  

Equity Residential

    58,235        3,708,987  

Federal Realty Investment Trust

    13,960        1,766,638  

Prologis, Inc.

    16,314        1,071,667  

Public Storage

    20,992        4,762,245  

Ventas, Inc.

    24,600        1,400,970  

Vornado Realty Trust

    42,665        3,153,797  
    

 

 

 
       23,253,444  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.3%  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    72,457        4,348,507  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.5%  

Mondelez International, Inc., Class A

    218,605        8,962,805  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 1.9%  

Abbott Laboratories

    88,974        5,426,524  

Becton Dickinson and Co.

    26,310        6,302,824  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)      
Health Care Equipment & Supplies (continued)  

Boston Scientific Corp. (A)

    213,989        $   6,997,440  

Danaher Corp.

    27,290        2,692,977  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (A)

    3,900        1,866,072  

Medtronic PLC

    60,000        5,136,600  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    43,092        4,802,173  
    

 

 

 
       33,224,610  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 1.8%  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    23,100        1,969,737  

Cigna Corp.

    38,211        6,493,959  

CVS Health Corp.

    45,200        2,908,620  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    79,296        19,454,481  
    

 

 

 
       30,826,797  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.5%  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    46,278        3,663,366  

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.

    10,118        1,048,225  

Yum! Brands, Inc.

    40,275        3,150,311  
    

 

 

 
       7,861,902  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.2%  

Lennar Corp., Class A

    56,300        2,955,750  

Toll Brothers, Inc.

    16,147        597,278  
    

 

 

 
       3,553,028  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.4%  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    38,700        2,508,147  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    55,301        4,316,796  
    

 

 

 
       6,824,943  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.7%  

Honeywell International, Inc.

    79,286        11,421,148  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 1.4%  

American International Group, Inc.

    143,038        7,583,875  

Chubb, Ltd.

    4,903        622,779  

Everest Re Group, Ltd.

    4,311        993,600  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    80,032        4,092,036  

Lincoln National Corp.

    49,100        3,056,475  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    16,800        1,377,096  

MetLife, Inc.

    106,467        4,641,961  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    11,800        624,810  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    21,600        2,019,816  
    

 

 

 
       25,012,448  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 2.2%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    18,963        32,233,307  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    1,132        2,294,666  

Expedia Group, Inc.

    10,100        1,213,919  

Netflix, Inc. (A)

    7,500        2,935,725  
    

 

 

 
       38,677,617  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 3.4%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    16,550        18,688,094  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    16,083        17,942,999  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    118,256        22,979,506  
    

 

 

 
       59,610,599  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 2.4%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    46,000        7,525,140  

Alliance Data Systems Corp.

    6,300        1,469,160  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    53,066        5,626,588  

International Business Machines Corp.

    20,693        2,890,812  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)      
IT Services (continued)  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    20,400        $   4,009,008  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (A)

    23,800        1,981,826  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    123,452        16,351,218  

Worldpay, Inc., Class A (A)

    19,390        1,585,714  
    

 

 

 
       41,439,466  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.4%  

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

    14,843        917,891  

Illumina, Inc. (A)

    6,493        1,813,430  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    17,837        3,694,756  
    

 

 

 
       6,426,077  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 1.7%  

Caterpillar, Inc.

    21,100        2,862,637  

Cummins, Inc.

    25,200        3,351,600  

Deere & Co.

    9,226        1,289,795  

Ingersoll-Rand PLC

    83,044        7,451,538  

PACCAR, Inc.

    46,728        2,895,267  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    5,791        902,527  

Snap-on, Inc.

    21,348        3,431,051  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    49,572        6,583,657  
    

 

 

 
       28,768,072  
    

 

 

 
Media - 2.4%  

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A (A)

    28,639        8,397,241  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    378,742        12,426,525  

Discovery, Inc., Class A (A)

    21,900        602,250  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (A)

    60,955        2,048,698  

Sirius XM Holdings, Inc. (C)

    258,134        1,747,567  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A

    120,890        6,007,024  

Walt Disney Co.

    91,615        9,602,168  
    

 

 

 
       40,831,473  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.2%  

Alcoa Corp. (A)

    10,200        478,176  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    89,122        1,538,246  

Newmont Mining Corp.

    21,565        813,216  
    

 

 

 
       2,829,638  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.4%  

Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.

    95,300        5,159,542  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    31,000        2,004,150  
    

 

 

 
       7,163,692  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.5%  

Dollar General Corp.

    43,200        4,259,520  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (A)

    58,538        4,975,730  
    

 

 

 
       9,235,250  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 3.8%  

Andeavor

    15,300        2,007,054  

Chevron Corp.

    98,519        12,455,757  

Concho Resources, Inc. (A) (C)

    26,014        3,599,037  

Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    33,678        4,431,015  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    84,315        10,491,315  

EQT Corp.

    43,313        2,390,011  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    95,366        7,889,629  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.

    87,400        6,131,984  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    74,648        6,246,545  

ONEOK, Inc.

    30,600        2,136,798  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    43,011        8,139,402  
    

 

 

 
       65,918,547  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)      
Personal Products - 0.2%  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    27,700        $   3,952,513  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 2.8%  

Allergan PLC

    21,426        3,572,143  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    80,931        4,478,721  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    74,247        6,335,496  

Johnson & Johnson

    94,959        11,522,325  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    120,591        7,319,874  

Mylan NV (A)

    37,065        1,339,529  

Pfizer, Inc.

    353,170        12,813,008  

Zoetis, Inc.

    5,900        502,621  
    

 

 

 
       47,883,717  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 1.2%  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    54,457        8,215,928  

Union Pacific Corp.

    84,965        12,037,841  
    

 

 

 
       20,253,769  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 2.6%  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    101,994        9,783,264  

Broadcom, Inc.

    35,568        8,630,220  

Intel Corp.

    43,000        2,137,530  

Microchip Technology, Inc. (C)

    41,037        3,732,315  

Micron Technology, Inc. (A)

    27,700        1,452,588  

NVIDIA Corp.

    42,016        9,953,590  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    90,051        9,928,123  
    

 

 

 
       45,617,630  
    

 

 

 
Software - 4.1%  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    7,600        580,032  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    22,152        5,400,879  

Intuit, Inc.

    21,000        4,290,405  

Microsoft Corp.

    439,750        43,363,748  

Oracle Corp.

    122,249        5,386,291  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    70,500        9,616,200  

Workday, Inc., Class A (A)

    19,410        2,350,939  
    

 

 

 
       70,988,494  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 2.0%  

AutoZone, Inc. (A)

    7,500        5,031,975  

Best Buy Co., Inc.

    43,248        3,225,436  

Home Depot, Inc.

    67,465        13,162,421  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    37,990        3,630,704  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (A)

    16,073        4,397,091  

Ross Stores, Inc.

    48,362        4,098,680  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    11,600        1,104,088  
    

 

 

 
       34,650,395  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 2.8%  

Apple, Inc.

    217,381        40,239,397  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

    275,400        4,023,594  

HP, Inc.

    189,457        4,298,779  
    

 

 

 
       48,561,770  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 0.7%  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    82,064        6,538,860  

PVH Corp.

    30,060        4,500,583  

Ralph Lauren Corp.

    8,100        1,018,332  
    

 

 

 
       12,057,775  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.7%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    43,200        2,453,328  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    109,322        8,826,658  
    

 

 

 
       11,279,986  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)      
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.1%  

Fastenal Co.

    42,500        $   2,045,525  

United Rentals, Inc. (A)

    3,000        442,860  
    

 

 

 
       2,488,385  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.2%  

T-Mobile US, Inc. (A)

    53,081        3,171,590  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $879,769,162)

 

     1,037,112,022  
    

 

 

 
PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.0% (B)  
Banks - 0.0% (B)  

Citigroup Capital XIII,
3-Month LIBOR + 6.37%,
8.73% (D)

    15,621        423,329  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 0.0% (B)  

State Street Corp.,
Series D, Fixed until
03/15/2024, 5.90% (D) (C)

    3,072        82,760  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.0% (B)  

SCE Trust III,
Series H, Fixed until
03/15/2024, 5.75% (D)

    1,280        34,496  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stocks
(Cost $537,460)

 

     540,585  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 3.7%  

321 Henderson Receivables VI LLC
Series 2010-1A, Class A,
5.56%, 07/15/2059 (E)

    $  696,120        733,739  

BlueMountain CLO, Ltd.

    

Series 2015-2A, Class A1,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.43%, 3.79% (D), 07/18/2027 (E)

    910,000        910,034  

Series 2015-2A, Class A1R,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, Zero Coupon (D), 07/18/2027 (E) (F)

    656,000        656,000  

BXG Receivables Note Trust
Series 2015-A, Class A,
2.88%, 05/02/2030 (E)

    841,717        826,558  

CIFC Funding, Ltd.

    

Series 2013-2A, Class A1LR,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.21%, 3.57% (D), 10/18/2030 (E)

    2,120,000        2,127,339  

Series 2017-3A, Class A1,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.22%, 3.58% (D), 07/20/2030 (E)

    2,500,000        2,502,595  

Diamond Resorts Owner Trust
Series 2014-1, Class A,
2.54%, 05/20/2027 (E)

    1,112,570        1,109,269  

Hertz Vehicle Financing II, LP

    

Series 2016-3A, Class A,

2.27%, 07/25/2020 (E)

    725,000        719,279  

Series 2016-4A, Class A,

2.65%, 07/25/2022 (E)

    700,000        681,665  

Hilton Grand Vacations Trust
Series 2017-AA, Class A, 2.66%, 12/26/2028 (E)

    351,286        345,004  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

ICG US CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.22%, 3.58% (D), 01/20/2030 (E)

    $   1,100,000        $  1,100,658  

JG Wentworth XXII LLC
Series 2010-3A, Class A,
3.82%, 12/15/2048 (E)

    1,328,736        1,342,531  

JGWPT XXVIII LLC
Series 2013-1A, Class A,
3.22%, 04/15/2067 (E)

    1,669,936        1,615,943  

Laurel Road Prime Student Loan Trust
Series 2018-B, Class A2FX,
3.54%, 05/26/2043 (E)

    1,035,000        1,039,921  

Longfellow Place CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-1A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.34%, 3.69% (D), 04/15/2029 (E)

    395,000        396,245  

MVW Owner Trust
Series 2014-1A, Class A,
2.25%, 09/22/2031 (E)

    238,894        233,660  

New Residential Advanced Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T2, Class AT2,

2.58%, 10/15/2049 (E)

    688,000        681,572  

Series 2017-T1, Class AT1,

3.21%, 02/15/2051 (E)

    2,700,000        2,680,453  

New Residential Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-1A, Class A1A,
4.00% (D), 12/25/2057 (E)

    1,806,299        1,817,779  

NRZ Advance Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T3, Class AT3,

2.83%, 10/16/2051 (E)

    140,000        136,586  

Series 2016-T4, Class AT4,

3.11%, 12/15/2050 (E)

    1,300,000        1,298,748  

OCP CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-7A, Class A1AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.31% (D), 10/20/2026 (E)

    500,000        499,608  

Octagon Investment Partners 33, Ltd.
Series 2017-1A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.19%, 3.55% (D), 01/20/2031 (E)

    1,400,000        1,400,839  

Ocwen Master Advance Receivables Trust

    

Series 2016-T2, Class AT2,

2.72%, 08/16/2049 (E)

    1,000,000        994,688  

Series 2017-T1, Class AT1,

2.50%, 09/15/2048 (E)

    1,930,000        1,927,702  

Orange Lake Timeshare Trust

    

Series 2015-AA, Class A,

    

2.88%, 09/08/2027 (E)

    302,078        295,771  

Series 2016-A, Class A,

    

2.61%, 03/08/2029 (E)

    1,529,754        1,499,237  

Series 2018-A, Class A,

    

3.10%, 11/08/2030 (E)

    344,549        341,175  

Series 2018-A, Class B,

    

3.35%, 11/08/2030 (E)

    281,901        279,230  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Palmer Square CLO, Ltd.

    

Series 2013-2A, Class A1AR,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.22%, 3.57% (D), 10/17/2027 (E)

    $   1,500,000        $   1,501,436  

Series 2015-2A, Class A1AR,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.27%, 3.63% (D), 07/20/2030 (E)

    915,000        917,106  

SBA Tower Trust
Series 2014-1A, Class C,
2.90% (D), 10/15/2044 (E)

    3,405,000        3,383,422  

Sierra Receivables Funding Co. LLC
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
2.91%, 03/20/2034 (E)

    456,805        452,803  

Sierra Timeshare Receivables Funding LLC

    

Series 2013-3A, Class B,

    

2.70%, 10/20/2030 (E)

    59,118        59,057  

Series 2014-1A, Class A,

    

2.07%, 03/20/2030 (E)

    126,459        126,168  

Series 2014-2A, Class A,

    

2.05% (D), 06/20/2031 (E)

    105,522        105,050  

Series 2015-1A, Class A,

    

2.40%, 03/22/2032 (E)

    86,300        85,620  

Series 2015-1A, Class B,

    

3.05%, 03/22/2032 (E)

    89,896        89,475  

Series 2015-3A, Class A,

    

2.58%, 09/20/2032 (E)

    54,087        53,800  

Series 2016-2A, Class A,

    

2.33%, 07/20/2033 (E)

    430,975        425,427  

SilverLeaf Finance XVIII LLC
Series 2014-A, Class A,
2.81%, 01/15/2027 (E)

    76,140        76,109  

SolarCity LMC Series III LLC
Series 2014-2, Class A,
4.02%, 07/20/2044 (E)

    552,094        517,974  

SpringCastle America Funding LLC
Series 2016-AA, Class A,
3.05%, 04/25/2029 (E)

    862,248        859,059  

SPS Servicer Advance Receivables Trust
Series 2016-T2, Class AT2,
2.75%, 11/15/2049 (E)

    600,000        605,463  

Towd Point Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2015-3, Class A1B,

    

3.00% (D), 03/25/2054 (E)

    1,447,566        1,437,169  

Series 2015-4, Class A1B,

    

2.75% (D), 04/25/2055 (E)

    1,953,780        1,931,934  

Series 2015-5, Class A1B,

    

2.75% (D), 05/25/2055 (E)

    782,331        771,128  

Series 2015-6, Class A1B,

    

2.75% (D), 04/25/2055 (E)

    542,715        533,914  

Series 2016-1, Class A1B,

    

2.75% (D), 02/25/2055 (E)

    935,723        924,312  

Series 2016-2, Class A1A,

    

2.75% (D), 08/25/2055 (E)

    1,805,588        1,771,404  

Series 2016-3, Class A1,

    

2.25% (D), 04/25/2056 (E)

    879,850        859,374  

Series 2016-4, Class A1,

    

2.25% (D), 07/25/2056 (E)

    1,213,825        1,181,814  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Towd Point Mortgage Trust (continued)

    

Series 2017-1, Class A1,

    

2.75% (D), 10/25/2056 (E)

    $  1,509,466        $  1,477,815  

Series 2017-2, Class A1,

    

2.75% (D), 04/25/2057 (E)

    1,243,912        1,223,496  

Series 2017-3, Class A1,

    

2.75% (D), 07/25/2057 (E)

    924,011        904,234  

Series 2017-6, Class A1,

    

2.75% (D), 10/25/2057 (E)

    2,163,147        2,108,057  

Series 2018-1, Class A1,

    

3.00% (D), 01/25/2058 (E)

    3,315,195        3,264,218  

VB-S1 Issuer LLC
Series 2018-1A, Class C,
3.41%, 02/15/2048 (E)

    3,055,000        3,034,415  

VSE VOI Mortgage LLC
Series 2016-A, Class A,
2.54%, 07/20/2033 (E)

    487,037        476,240  

Welk Resorts LLC
Series 2017-AA, Class A,
2.82%, 06/15/2033 (E)

    1,530,107        1,502,017  

Wellfleet CLO, Ltd.
Series 2016-2A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.65%, 4.01% (D), 10/20/2028 (E)

    1,125,000        1,125,513  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $64,745,083)

 

     63,978,851  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 16.1%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.1%  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
2.55%, 10/15/2022

    2,298,000        2,213,486  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.1%  

FedEx Corp.

    

4.90%, 01/15/2034

    1,261,000        1,328,083  

5.10%, 01/15/2044

    215,000        225,409  
    

 

 

 
       1,553,492  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.6%  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

3.20%, 12/15/2029

    771,742        731,318  

3.70%, 04/01/2028

    1,584,696        1,547,059  

Delta Air Lines Pass-Through Trust

    

4.75%, 11/07/2021

    991,703        1,008,860  

6.82%, 02/10/2024

    2,232,630        2,433,120  

Northwest Airlines Pass-Through Trust
7.03%, 05/01/2021

    578,718        604,471  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust
3.75%, 03/03/2028

    2,293,260        2,276,766  

US Airways Pass-Through Trust
5.38%, 05/15/2023

    1,167,982        1,194,028  
    

 

 

 
       9,795,622  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.0% (B)  

BorgWarner, Inc.
3.38%, 03/15/2025

    780,000        757,069  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.2%  

Ford Motor Co.
4.35%, 12/08/2026

    1,580,000        1,550,631  

General Motors Co.

    

4.88%, 10/02/2023

    330,000        339,252  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Automobiles (continued)  

General Motors Co. (continued)

    

6.25%, 10/02/2043

    $   893,000        $   925,420  
    

 

 

 
       2,815,303  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 3.0%  

Banco Santander SA
4.38%, 04/12/2028

    2,200,000        2,103,479  

Bank of America Corp.

    

Fixed until 10/01/2024, 3.09% (D), 10/01/2025, MTN

    2,367,000        2,253,924  

Fixed until 12/20/2027, 3.42% (D), 12/20/2028

    410,000        386,086  

4.45%, 03/03/2026, MTN

    3,380,000        3,387,831  

Bank One Capital III
8.75%, 09/01/2030

    175,000        240,753  

Bank One Corp.
8.00%, 04/29/2027

    350,000        436,773  

Barclays Bank PLC
10.18%, 06/12/2021 (E)

    4,265,000        4,921,122  

Barclays PLC
Fixed until 05/16/2028, 4.97% (D), 05/16/2029

    824,000        816,350  

BB&T Corp.
2.85%, 10/26/2024, MTN

    1,290,000        1,224,003  

BNP Paribas SA
Fixed until 03/14/2022, 6.75% (D), 03/14/2022 (E) (G)

    350,000        347,375  

CIT Group, Inc.
4.13%, 03/09/2021

    125,000        124,219  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.31% (D), 07/24/2023

    1,013,000        1,015,504  

Fixed until 01/10/2027, 3.89% (D), 01/10/2028

    2,744,000        2,657,660  

4.50%, 01/14/2022

    685,000        703,622  

6.68%, 09/13/2043

    75,000        90,638  

Commerzbank AG
8.13%, 09/19/2023 (E)

    2,925,000        3,329,367  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA

    

2.25%, 01/14/2019

    265,000        264,495  

Fixed until 06/30/2019, 11.00% (D), 06/30/2019 (E)  (G)

    2,438,000        2,611,707  

Discover Bank
3.45%, 07/27/2026

    1,078,000        1,000,257  

Fifth Third Bancorp
3.95%, 03/14/2028

    1,381,000        1,362,227  

First Horizon National Corp.
3.50%, 12/15/2020

    470,000        471,571  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.33% (D), 05/18/2024 (C)

    2,901,000        2,892,297  

4.25%, 03/14/2024

    200,000        198,980  

5.25%, 03/14/2044

    201,000        204,334  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

    

3.38%, 01/12/2023 (E)

    376,000        345,618  

3.88%, 07/14/2027 (E)

    717,000        618,668  

5.02%, 06/26/2024 (E)

    615,000        558,214  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    

3.25%, 09/23/2022

    1,686,000        1,670,371  

3.38%, 05/01/2023

    1,517,000        1,481,658  

4.85%, 02/01/2044

    1,010,000        1,044,189  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (continued)

    

6.40%, 05/15/2038

    $   613,000        $   751,751  

Fixed until 02/01/2024, 6.75% (D), 02/01/2024 (C)  (G)

    66,000        71,775  

Nordea Bank AB
4.25%, 09/21/2022 (E)

    4,458,000        4,521,510  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    

Fixed until 05/18/2028, 4.89% (D), 05/18/2029

    710,000        706,840  

6.00%, 12/19/2023

    275,000        288,578  

6.10%, 06/10/2023

    479,000        504,483  

6.40%, 10/21/2019

    185,000        191,929  

Societe Generale SA
5.00%, 01/17/2024 (E)

    640,000        642,147  

SunTrust Bank
3.30%, 05/15/2026

    1,063,000        1,003,519  

Toronto-Dominion Bank
Fixed until 09/15/2026, 3.63% (D), 09/15/2031

    1,910,000        1,797,510  

US Bank NA
2.13%, 10/28/2019

    589,000        583,593  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

4.10%, 06/03/2026, MTN

    668,000        654,574  

5.38%, 11/02/2043

    580,000        605,648  

Fixed until 06/15/2024, 5.90% (D), 06/15/2024 (G)

    178,000        178,667  

Wells Fargo Bank NA

    

2.60%, 01/15/2021

    635,000        624,883  

5.95%, 08/26/2036

    431,000        497,253  
    

 

 

 
       52,387,952  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.3%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.
3.65%, 02/01/2026

    678,000        663,724  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.
4.44%, 10/06/2048

    1,419,000        1,365,542  

Constellation Brands, Inc.
3.70%, 12/06/2026

    462,000        445,806  

Pernod Ricard SA

    

4.45%, 01/15/2022 (E)

    711,000        731,049  

5.75%, 04/07/2021 (E)

    1,761,000        1,867,733  
    

 

 

 
       5,073,854  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.3%  

AbbVie, Inc.
3.20%, 05/14/2026

    1,864,000        1,740,505  

Biogen, Inc.
4.05%, 09/15/2025

    982,000        987,074  

Celgene Corp.
3.88%, 08/15/2025

    1,132,000        1,101,620  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    

2.95%, 03/01/2027 (C)

    345,000        322,282  

4.15%, 03/01/2047

    311,000        297,278  
    

 

 

 
       4,448,759  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.1%  

Owens Corning

    

4.20%, 12/15/2022

    1,680,000        1,684,107  

4.40%, 01/30/2048

    745,000        622,026  
    

 

 

 
       2,306,133  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Capital Markets - 1.5%  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    

3.70%, 10/15/2024

    $   2,584,000        $   2,578,752  

7.30%, 06/28/2019

    1,180,000        1,229,363  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    

3.20%, 03/02/2027

    2,150,000        2,052,470  

3.85%, 05/21/2025

    2,110,000        2,133,540  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.

    

3.75%, 03/26/2025

    1,756,000        1,688,867  

3.80%, 06/09/2023

    1,515,000        1,495,345  

Deutsche Bank AG
3-Month LIBOR + 1.23%, 3.55% (D), 02/27/2023

    1,397,000        1,349,339  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

2.75%, 09/15/2020

    1,050,000        1,037,480  

5.75%, 01/24/2022

    2,985,000        3,194,441  

6.25%, 02/01/2041

    175,000        204,323  

6.75%, 10/01/2037

    848,000        1,006,442  

Morgan Stanley

    

4.35%, 09/08/2026, MTN

    627,000        618,443  

5.00%, 11/24/2025

    976,000        1,011,748  

5.75%, 01/25/2021

    2,610,000        2,759,411  

UBS AG
7.63%, 08/17/2022

    1,521,000        1,679,032  

UBS Group Funding Switzerland AG
4.25%, 03/23/2028 (E)

    1,911,000        1,898,725  
    

 

 

 
       25,937,721  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.2%  

LyondellBasell Industries NV
5.00%, 04/15/2019

    215,000        217,126  

Monsanto Co.
4.40%, 07/15/2044

    1,664,000        1,541,690  

Syngenta Finance NV
3.93%, 04/23/2021 (E)

    845,000        842,858  
    

 

 

 
       2,601,674  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.1%  

CK Hutchison International 17 II, Ltd.
2.25%, 09/29/2020 (E)

    595,000        581,827  

ERAC USA Finance LLC

    

2.70%, 11/01/2023 (E)

    615,000        580,572  

3.85%, 11/15/2024 (E)

    720,000        716,328  

Hutchison Whampoa International 11, Ltd.
4.63%, 01/13/2022 (E)

    600,000        616,309  
    

 

 

 
       2,495,036  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.1%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.
2.13%, 03/01/2019

    225,000        224,437  

Nokia OYJ
3.38%, 06/12/2022

    1,142,000        1,105,547  
    

 

 

 
       1,329,984  
    

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering - 0.3%  

SBA Tower Trust

    

2.88%, 07/10/2046 (E)

    1,477,000        1,434,706  

3.17%, 04/09/2047 (E)

    1,490,000        1,457,782  

3.45%, 03/15/2048 (E)

    2,380,000        2,364,220  
    

 

 

 
       5,256,708  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Construction Materials - 0.2%  

LafargeHolcim Finance US LLC
4.75%, 09/22/2046 (E)

    $   1,290,000        $   1,208,144  

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
4.25%, 07/02/2024

    1,905,000        1,922,266  
    

 

 

 
       3,130,410  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.6%  

Ally Financial, Inc.

    

3.50%, 01/27/2019

    1,525,000        1,523,094  

4.13%, 03/30/2020

    1,500,000        1,501,875  

American Express Co.

    

3.00%, 10/30/2024

    525,000        500,929  

4.05%, 12/03/2042

    300,000        293,159  

BMW US Capital LLC
2.80%, 04/11/2026 (E)

    1,775,000        1,637,519  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    

3.30%, 10/30/2024

    2,272,000        2,157,996  

3.80%, 01/31/2028

    707,000        667,367  

Discover Financial Services
3.75%, 03/04/2025

    2,270,000        2,167,504  
    

 

 

 
       10,449,443  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.2%  

International Paper Co.
4.75%, 02/15/2022

    1,142,000        1,180,652  

Reynolds Group Issuer, Inc. / Reynolds Group Issuer LLC

    

5.13%, 07/15/2023 (E)

    650,000        641,875  

5.75%, 10/15/2020

    1,254,994        1,259,701  
    

 

 

 
       3,082,228  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.0% (B)  

President & Fellows of Harvard College
3.62%, 10/01/2037

    95,000        94,817  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.5%  

AerCap Ireland Capital DAC / AerCap Global Aviation Trust
4.50%, 05/15/2021

    1,865,000        1,900,203  

Aviation Capital Group LLC

    

3.50%, 11/01/2027 (E)

    1,708,000        1,563,929  

7.13%, 10/15/2020 (E)

    1,811,000        1,953,128  

AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc.
4.35%, 04/20/2028 (E)

    1,696,000        1,621,320  

Jefferies Group LLC / Jefferies Group Capital Finance, Inc.
4.15%, 01/23/2030

    1,297,000        1,144,497  
    

 

 

 
       8,183,077  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.6%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3.00%, 06/30/2022

    2,024,000        1,964,892  

3.40%, 05/15/2025

    2,055,000        1,927,054  

4.35%, 06/15/2045

    770,000        652,296  

GTP Acquisition Partners I LLC
2.35%, 06/15/2045 (E)

    210,000        206,050  

Hughes Satellite Systems Corp.
7.63%, 06/15/2021

    1,155,000        1,228,631  

Sprint Capital Corp.
6.88%, 11/15/2028

    175,000        167,562  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Diversified Telecommunication Services (continued)  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

5.15%, 09/15/2023

    $   2,331,000        $   2,479,024  

5.50%, 03/16/2047

    1,977,000        2,071,621  
    

 

 

 
       10,697,130  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.5%  

Appalachian Power Co.
3.40%, 06/01/2025

    550,000        541,467  

Cleveland Electric Illuminating Co.

    

5.95%, 12/15/2036

    114,000        135,687  

8.88%, 11/15/2018

    65,000        66,370  

Duke Energy Corp.
3.75%, 04/15/2024 - 09/01/2046

    3,320,000        3,025,890  

Duke Energy Progress LLC
3.60%, 09/15/2047

    1,050,000        955,909  

Entergy Arkansas, Inc.
3.70%, 06/01/2024

    267,000        269,499  

Jersey Central Power & Light Co.
7.35%, 02/01/2019

    128,000        131,045  

Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.
4.88%, 08/15/2019 (E)

    347,000        353,511  

Oncor Electric Delivery Co. LLC

    

4.10%, 06/01/2022

    1,512,000        1,549,600  

5.30%, 06/01/2042

    75,000        86,536  

PacifiCorp

    

3.60%, 04/01/2024

    1,631,000        1,642,985  

5.75%, 04/01/2037

    150,000        180,324  

Public Service Electric & Gas Co.
3.00%, 05/15/2025, MTN

    560,000        542,310  
    

 

 

 
       9,481,133  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.2%  

Arrow Electronics, Inc.

    

3.25%, 09/08/2024

    360,000        336,532  

3.88%, 01/12/2028

    1,415,000        1,325,993  

Keysight Technologies, Inc.
4.55%, 10/30/2024

    1,750,000        1,771,072  
    

 

 

 
       3,433,597  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.1%  

Schlumberger Holdings Corp.
3.00%, 12/21/2020 (E)

    1,352,000        1,343,892  

Schlumberger Investment SA
3.65%, 12/01/2023

    132,000        133,101  

Weatherford International, Ltd.
5.95%, 04/15/2042

    155,000        115,863  
    

 

 

 
       1,592,856  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 0.8%  

American Tower Trust #1
3.65%, 03/23/2048 (E)

    775,000        763,867  

CBL & Associates, LP
5.25%, 12/01/2023 (C)

    1,036,000        901,320  

EPR Properties

    

4.50%, 04/01/2025

    955,000        943,370  

4.75%, 12/15/2026

    1,775,000        1,736,130  

HCP, Inc.
3.40%, 02/01/2025

    2,683,000        2,536,794  

Hospitality Properties Trust
5.00%, 08/15/2022

    1,250,000        1,284,764  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (continued)  

Kilroy Realty, LP

    

4.25%, 08/15/2029

    $   1,120,000        $   1,095,530  

4.38%, 10/01/2025

    674,000        674,937  

6.63%, 06/01/2020

    900,000        952,124  

Realty Income Corp.
3.88%, 07/15/2024

    965,000        955,940  

VEREIT Operating Partnership, LP

    

3.00%, 02/06/2019

    620,000        619,714  

4.13%, 06/01/2021

    788,000        798,723  
    

 

 

 
       13,263,213  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.3%  

Kroger Co.
2.80%, 08/01/2022

    714,000        692,511  

Sysco Corp.
3.25%, 07/15/2027

    1,045,000        978,751  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
3.30%, 11/18/2021

    1,785,000        1,773,647  

Walmart, Inc.
3.63%, 12/15/2047 (C)

    1,540,000        1,433,646  
    

 

 

 
       4,878,555  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.2%  

Campbell Soup Co.
4.15%, 03/15/2028 (C)

    1,797,000        1,711,102  

Danone SA
2.95%, 11/02/2026 (E)

    1,151,000        1,058,183  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.

    

2.80%, 07/02/2020

    880,000        873,700  

4.88%, 02/15/2025 (E)

    535,000        545,444  
    

 

 

 
       4,188,429  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.2%  

Abbott Laboratories
3.75%, 11/30/2026

    1,582,000        1,554,982  

Becton Dickinson and Co.
3.70%, 06/06/2027

    1,674,000        1,584,612  
    

 

 

 
       3,139,594  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.2%  

Coventry Health Care, Inc.
5.45%, 06/15/2021

    222,000        233,563  

CVS Health Corp.

    

2.13%, 06/01/2021

    2,065,000        1,985,067  

5.05%, 03/25/2048

    1,048,000        1,066,546  

5.30%, 12/05/2043

    209,000        218,396  

HCA Healthcare, Inc.
6.25%, 02/15/2021

    645,000        669,187  
    

 

 

 
       4,172,759  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.1%  

D.R. Horton, Inc.
4.38%, 09/15/2022

    842,000        860,480  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.4%  

General Electric Co.

    

Fixed until 01/21/2021, 5.00% (D), 01/21/2021 (G)

    4,428,000        4,361,580  

5.50%, 01/08/2020, MTN

    610,000        632,296  

6.88%, 01/10/2039, MTN

    1,419,000        1,796,946  
    

 

 

 
       6,790,822  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance - 0.4%  

Allstate Corp.
3.28%, 12/15/2026

    $   997,000        $   957,769  

American International Group, Inc.
Fixed until 05/15/2038, 8.18% (D), 05/15/2068

    42,000        52,920  

Athene Global Funding
3.00%, 07/01/2022 (E)

    997,000        965,573  

Athene Holding, Ltd.
4.13%, 01/12/2028

    2,235,000        2,061,028  

Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corp.
3.00%, 05/15/2022

    1,545,000        1,544,126  

CNA Financial Corp.
5.88%, 08/15/2020

    1,454,000        1,526,616  

Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
5.50%, 09/01/2022

    255,000        271,346  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
5.13%, 04/15/2022

    57,000        60,153  
    

 

 

 
       7,439,531  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 0.1%  

Baidu, Inc.
3.88%, 09/29/2023

    1,000,000        991,957  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.1%  

DXC Technology Co.
4.75%, 04/15/2027

    680,000        687,021  

First Data Corp.
7.00%, 12/01/2023 (E)

    935,000        973,877  

Mastercard, Inc.

    

2.00%, 04/01/2019

    224,000        223,098  

3.38%, 04/01/2024

    441,000        440,020  
    

 

 

 
       2,324,016  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 0.0% (B)  

Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., Ltd.
2.13%, 04/27/2020 (E)

    580,000        565,614  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.3%  

Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings, Inc.
6.50%, 11/15/2022

    1,240,000        1,264,800  

CSC Holdings LLC
10.13%, 01/15/2023 (E)

    350,000        385,875  

NBCUniversal Enterprise, Inc.
5.25%, 03/19/2021 (E) (G)

    473,000        477,730  

NBCUniversal Media LLC

    

4.38%, 04/01/2021

    1,440,000        1,477,336  

4.45%, 01/15/2043

    1,294,000        1,223,254  
    

 

 

 
       4,828,995  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.1%  

Anglo American Capital PLC

    

4.00%, 09/11/2027 (E)

    800,000        744,817  

4.75%, 04/10/2027 (E)

    365,000        359,866  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.
3.88%, 03/15/2023

    185,000        174,825  
    

 

 

 
       1,279,508  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.2%  

CMS Energy Corp.

    

3.88%, 03/01/2024

    87,000        87,255  

4.88%, 03/01/2044

    201,000        212,087  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Multi-Utilities (continued)  

Dominion Energy, Inc.
2.58%, 07/01/2020

    $   833,000        $   820,783  

DTE Electric Co.
4.30%, 07/01/2044

    1,519,000        1,562,158  

Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.
2.65%, 11/15/2022

    650,000        625,748  
    

 

 

 
       3,308,031  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 1.3%  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
5.55%, 03/15/2026 (C)

    2,142,000        2,295,617  

Apache Corp.

    

4.25%, 01/15/2044

    66,000        58,351  

4.75%, 04/15/2043

    85,000        80,785  

BP Capital Markets PLC
3.12%, 05/04/2026

    2,307,000        2,204,512  

Continental Resources, Inc.
3.80%, 06/01/2024

    365,000        356,072  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP

    

4.90%, 02/01/2024

    659,000        669,346  

5.15%, 02/01/2043

    800,000        713,177  

5.95%, 10/01/2043

    740,000        723,474  

7.60%, 02/01/2024

    581,000        654,473  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC
4.25%, 02/15/2048

    1,642,000        1,527,769  

EOG Resources, Inc.
2.45%, 04/01/2020

    371,000        366,811  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    

1.82%, 03/15/2019

    640,000        636,776  

3.04%, 03/01/2026

    1,950,000        1,896,723  

Husky Energy, Inc.
4.00%, 04/15/2024

    185,000        184,779  

Kerr-McGee Corp.
6.95%, 07/01/2024

    190,000        215,581  

Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, LP
4.15%, 02/01/2024

    1,295,000        1,288,784  

Nexen Energy ULC
5.88%, 03/10/2035

    10,000        11,553  

Noble Energy, Inc.
6.00%, 03/01/2041

    95,000        104,488  

Petrobras Global Finance BV
6.25%, 03/17/2024

    670,000        664,305  

Petroleos Mexicanos

    

3.50%, 01/30/2023

    1,515,000        1,434,205  

6.88%, 08/04/2026

    790,000        830,290  

Petronas Capital, Ltd.
5.25%, 08/12/2019 (E)

    1,490,000        1,523,920  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC
4.20%, 03/15/2028

    1,290,000        1,248,861  

Shell International Finance BV

    

2.50%, 09/12/2026

    1,826,000        1,691,654  

3.75%, 09/12/2046

    266,000        247,261  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.

    

3.75%, 10/16/2023

    160,000        160,565  

4.63%, 03/01/2034

    145,000        144,875  

Western Gas Partners, LP
5.38%, 06/01/2021

    259,000        268,476  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Williams Cos., Inc.

    

3.70%, 01/15/2023

    $   83,000        $   80,302  

7.88%, 09/01/2021

    109,000        121,262  

Williams Partners, LP
5.40%, 03/04/2044

    128,000        131,894  
    

 

 

 
       22,536,941  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.3%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.00%, 03/12/2020

    307,000        305,545  

Bayer US Finance II LLC
4.38%, 12/15/2028 (E)

    1,945,000        1,948,699  

Bayer US Finance LLC
3.00%, 10/08/2021 (E)

    992,000        975,866  

Perrigo Finance Unlimited Co.
4.38%, 03/15/2026

    940,000        919,978  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC
3.20%, 09/23/2026

    549,000        503,098  
    

 

 

 
       4,653,186  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.0% (B)  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC

    

3.00%, 03/15/2023

    508,000        498,428  

3.75%, 04/01/2024

    48,000        48,485  
    

 

 

 
       546,913  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.2%  

Intel Corp.
2.88%, 05/11/2024

    1,548,000        1,499,207  

KLA-Tencor Corp.

    

4.13%, 11/01/2021

    507,000        515,833  

4.65%, 11/01/2024

    350,000        361,722  

QUALCOMM, Inc.
3.25%, 05/20/2027

    1,420,000        1,321,320  
    

 

 

 
       3,698,082  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.1%  

Microsoft Corp.
3.30%, 02/06/2027

    2,262,000        2,227,347  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.3%  

Apple, Inc.

    

2.40%, 05/03/2023 (C)

    945,000        910,437  

2.85%, 02/23/2023

    1,376,000        1,354,529  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
6.02%, 06/15/2026 (E)

    1,586,000        1,665,921  

HP, Inc.
3.75%, 12/01/2020

    45,000        45,354  

Seagate HDD Cayman
4.88%, 06/01/2027

    607,000        564,184  

Western Digital Corp.
4.75%, 02/15/2026

    1,485,000        1,444,163  
    

 

 

 
       5,984,588  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.2%  

BAT Capital Corp.
2.30%, 08/14/2020 (E)

    486,000        474,932  

Reynolds American, Inc.
4.45%, 06/12/2025

    1,679,000        1,689,751  

RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co.
8.13%, 06/23/2019

    450,000        471,690  
    

 

 

 
       2,636,373  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.1%  

International Lease Finance Corp.
8.25%, 12/15/2020

    $   1,464,000        $   1,611,500  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.4%  

America Movil SAB de CV

    

3.13%, 07/16/2022

    1,016,000        998,542  

4.38%, 07/16/2042 (C)

    250,000        243,168  

Crown Castle Towers LLC

    

3.22%, 05/15/2042 (E)

    3,306,000        3,243,682  

3.72%, 07/15/2043 (E) (F)

    40,000        40,033  

4.88%, 08/15/2040 (E)

    675,000        692,268  

Sprint Communications, Inc.
9.00%, 11/15/2018 (E)

    996,000        1,015,920  

Sprint Corp.

    

7.25%, 09/15/2021

    330,000        343,200  

7.88%, 09/15/2023

    200,000        207,375  

Vodafone Group PLC
4.38%, 05/30/2028

    560,000        553,344  
    

 

 

 
       7,337,532  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $286,691,081)

 

     278,381,450  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.5%  
Brazil - 0.0% (B)  

Brazil Government International Bond
4.25%, 01/07/2025 (C)

    480,000        453,600  
    

 

 

 
Colombia - 0.1%  

Colombia Government International Bond

    

4.00%, 02/26/2024

    305,000        304,695  

4.50%, 01/28/2026 (C)

    1,125,000        1,141,875  
    

 

 

 
       1,446,570  
    

 

 

 
Indonesia - 0.1%  

Indonesia Government International Bond

    

4.75%, 01/08/2026 (E)

    1,160,000        1,175,642  

5.38%, 10/17/2023 (E)

    400,000        419,885  
    

 

 

 
       1,595,527  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 0.1%  

Mexico Government International Bond
3.75%, 01/11/2028

    1,883,000        1,780,377  
    

 

 

 
Panama - 0.0% (B)  

Panama Government International Bond
3.88%, 03/17/2028

    550,000        540,375  
    

 

 

 
Peru - 0.0% (B)  

Peru Government International Bond
7.35%, 07/21/2025

    160,000        195,200  
    

 

 

 
Poland - 0.0% (B)  

Republic of Poland Government International Bond
3.00%, 03/17/2023

    405,000        395,410  
    

 

 

 
Qatar - 0.0% (B)  

Qatar Government International Bond
3.88%, 04/23/2023 (E)

    200,000        199,854  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.1%  

Korea Development Bank
3.00%, 03/17/2019

    874,000        874,489  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
Saudi Arabia - 0.1%  

Saudi Arabia Government International Bond
2.38%, 10/26/2021 (E)

    $   705,000        $   676,941  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $8,353,966)

 

     8,158,343  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 3.7%  

Aventura Mall Trust
Series 2013-AVM, Class A,
3.87% (D), 12/05/2032 (E)

    1,300,000        1,320,557  

BB-UBS Trust

    

Series 2012-TFT, Class A,

    

2.89%, 06/05/2030 (E)

    1,630,000        1,594,627  

Series 2012-TFT, Class C,

    

3.58% (D), 06/05/2030 (E)

    1,390,000        1,342,484  

BB-UBS Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2012-SHOW, Class XA,
0.73% (D), 11/05/2036 (E)

    3,935,000        140,237  

BBCMS Trust

    

Series 2013-TYSN, Class B,

    

4.04%, 09/05/2032 (E)

    755,000        764,750  

Series 2015-MSQ, Class B,

    

3.89%, 09/15/2032 (E)

    1,150,000        1,153,665  

BCAP LLC Trust

    

Series 2009-RR14, Class 1A1,

    

9.42% (D), 05/26/2037 (E)

    1,055        1,053  

Series 2009-RR6, Class 2A1,

    

3.66% (D), 08/26/2035 (E)

    162,660        162,601  

Series 2010-RR1, Class 12A1,

    

5.25% (D), 08/26/2036 (E)

    44,126        44,280  

Caesars Palace Las Vegas Trust
Series 2017-VICI, Class A,
3.53%, 10/15/2034 (E)

    1,800,000        1,804,686  

CGRBS Commercial Mortgage Trust
Series 2013-VN05, Class B,
3.70% (D), 03/13/2035 (E)

    2,550,000        2,535,525  

Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2014-GC19, Class A3,

    

3.75%, 03/10/2047

    185,000        186,938  

Series 2014-GC19, Class A4,

    

4.02%, 03/10/2047

    285,000        293,241  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2015-A, Class A1,

    

3.50% (D), 06/25/2058 (E)

    617,883        614,382  

Series 2018-RP1, Class A1,

    

3.00% (D), 09/25/2064 (E)

    1,145,293        1,126,570  

COMM Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2013-CR11, Class AM,

    

4.72% (D), 08/10/2050

    1,648,000        1,728,782  

Series 2013-GAM, Class A2,

    

3.37%, 02/10/2028 (E)

    170,000        168,480  

Series 2013-WWP, Class B,

    

3.73%, 03/10/2031 (E)

    1,900,000        1,940,716  

Series 2014-UBS2, Class A5,

    

3.96%, 03/10/2047

    890,000        909,490  

Series 2015-3BP, Class A,

    

3.18%, 02/10/2035 (E)

    3,300,000        3,211,089  

Series 2016-GCT, Class C,

    

3.58% (D), 08/10/2029 (E)

    690,000        682,068  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2012-LTRT, Class A2,
3.40%, 10/05/2030 (E)

    $   1,690,000        $   1,633,503  

Core Industrial Trust
Series 2015-CALW, Class B,
3.25%, 02/10/2034 (E)

    1,135,000        1,124,850  

Credit Suisse Mortgage Capital Certificates
Series 2009-11R, Class 5A1,
3.32% (D), 08/26/2036 (E)

    189,255        190,071  

CSMC Trust
Series 2014-4R, Class 21A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.33%, 2.29% (D), 12/27/2035 (E)

    724,029        706,828  

Deutsche Alt-A Securities Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2007-RMP1, Class A2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.15%, 2.24% (D), 12/25/2036

    157,903        145,540  

GS Mortgage Securities Corp. II
Series 2013-KING, Class E,
3.55% (D), 12/10/2027 (E)

    440,000        432,304  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2013-G1, Class A2,
3.56% (D), 04/10/2031 (E)

    1,830,837        1,823,717  

Houston Galleria Mall Trust
Series 2015-HGLR, Class A1A2,
3.09%, 03/05/2037 (E)

    800,000        771,043  

Jefferies Resecuritization Trust
Series 2009-R7, Class 1A1,
3.71% (D), 02/26/2036 (E)

    90,315        90,272  

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust

    

Series 2010-C1, Class B,

    

5.95%, 06/15/2043 (E)

    420,000        425,312  

Series 2012-WLDN, Class A,

    

3.91%, 05/05/2030 (E)

    5,481,298        5,528,583  

JPMorgan Resecuritization Trust
Series 2014-2, Class 6A1,
3.35% (D), 05/26/2037 (E)

    124,405        124,786  

Mill City Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2016-1, Class A1,
2.50% (D), 04/25/2057 (E)

    532,754        522,693  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust

    

Series 2012-C6, Class AS,

    

3.48%, 11/15/2045

    1,380,000        1,376,319  

Series 2013-C11, Class B,

    

4.50% (D), 08/15/2046

    945,000        959,025  

Morgan Stanley Capital Barclays Bank Trust
Series 2016-MART, Class A,
2.20%, 09/13/2031 (E)

    2,290,000        2,217,415  

Morgan Stanley Resecuritization Trust
Series 2014-R3, Class 2A,
3.00% (D), 07/26/2048 (E)

    741,557        717,208  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Motel 6 Trust
Series 2017-MTL6, Class C,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.40%, 3.47% (D), 08/15/2034 (E)

    $   4,463,101        $   4,464,478  

Nationstar Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2013-A, Class A,
3.75% (D), 12/25/2052 (E)

      369,858          372,784  

New Residential Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2014-1A, Class A,

    

3.75% (D), 01/25/2054 (E)

    312,996        313,926  

Series 2014-2A, Class A3,

    

3.75% (D), 05/25/2054 (E)

    1,164,905        1,169,545  

Series 2014-3A, Class AFX3,

    

3.75% (D), 11/25/2054 (E)

    316,221        315,761  

Series 2015-2A, Class A1,

    

3.75% (D), 08/25/2055 (E)

    671,904        673,272  

Series 2016-2A, Class A1,

    

3.75% (D), 11/26/2035 (E)

    721,866        724,124  

Series 2016-3A, Class A1B,

    

3.25% (D), 09/25/2056 (E)

    775,603        765,826  

Series 2016-4A, Class A1,

    

3.75% (D), 11/25/2056 (E)

    1,413,349        1,414,686  

Series 2017-1A, Class A1,

    

4.00% (D), 02/25/2057 (E)

    1,780,187        1,794,942  

Series 2017-2A, Class A3,

    

4.00% (D), 03/25/2057 (E)

    1,673,180        1,696,574  

Series 2017-3A, Class A1,

    

4.00% (D), 04/25/2057 (E)

    2,644,659        2,670,229  

Series 2017-4A, Class A1,

    

4.00% (D), 05/25/2057 (E)

    1,060,350        1,072,915  

One Market Plaza Trust
Series 2017-1MKT, Class A,
3.61%, 02/10/2032 (E)

    2,169,000        2,164,671  

Palisades Center Trust
Series 2016-PLSD, Class A,
2.71%, 04/13/2033 (E)

    1,911,000        1,867,215  

Provident Funding Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-1, Class 3A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.58%, 2.67% (D), 05/25/2035

    318,326        316,646  

UBS-BAMLL Trust
Series 2012-WRM, Class A,
3.66%, 06/10/2030 (E)

    916,000        909,811  

Waldorf Astoria Boca Raton Trust
Series 2016-BOCA, Class C,
1-Month LIBOR + 2.50%, 4.57% (D), 06/15/2029 (E)

    915,000        916,135  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $65,541,743)

 

     64,139,230  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.3%  
California - 0.3%  

Los Angeles Community College District, General Obligation Unlimited,
6.60%, 08/01/2042

    55,000        76,856  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited

    

7.30%, 10/01/2039

    765,000        1,083,852  

7.60%, 11/01/2040

    660,000        992,620  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
California (continued)  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited (continued)

 

7.70%, 11/01/2030

    $   580,000        $   640,958  

7.95%, 03/01/2036

    1,525,000        1,644,987  

University of California, Revenue Bonds,
Series AD,
4.86%, 05/15/2112

    50,000        53,011  
    

 

 

 
       4,492,284  
    

 

 

 
Georgia - 0.0% (B)  

Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
6.64%, 04/01/2057

      50,000          63,220  
    

 

 

 
New Jersey - 0.0% (B)  

New Jersey Turnpike Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series F,
7.41%, 01/01/2040

    71,000        103,257  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.0% (B)  

Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series E,
6.81%, 11/15/2040

    60,000        80,527  

New York City Water & Sewer System, Revenue Bonds,
Series CC,
5.88%, 06/15/2044

    55,000        71,578  

New York State Dormitory Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series H,
5.39%, 03/15/2040

    55,000        65,609  

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Revenue Bonds,
Series 181,
4.96%, 08/01/2046

    95,000        112,280  
    

 

 

 
       329,994  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $5,108,316)

 

     4,988,755  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 6.5%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

5.00%, 02/01/2024 - 08/01/2035

    704,092        755,129  

5.50%, 09/01/2018 - 06/01/2041

    165,077        177,628  

6.00%, 12/01/2037

    64,784        71,963  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates

    

2.89%, 06/25/2027

    5,932,251        5,810,503  

3.06% (D), 08/25/2024

    5,940,000        5,904,979  

3.49%, 01/25/2024

    2,260,000        2,300,404  

3.53% (D), 07/25/2023

    1,852,000        1,887,016  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

2.50%, TBA (F)

    6,231,000        6,055,769  

3.00%, TBA (F)

    41,486,000        40,540,702  

3.33% (D), 10/25/2023

    245,000        247,255  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.53%, 3.34% (D), 02/01/2043

    95,405        98,504  

3.50%, 07/01/2028 - 01/01/2029

    583,699        593,054  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

3.50%, TBA (F)

    $   26,949,000        $   26,886,778  

4.00%, 06/01/2042

    167,236        171,764  

4.00%, TBA (F)

    7,993,000        8,148,878  

4.50%, 02/01/2025 - 06/01/2026

    344,104        355,579  

5.00%, 04/01/2039 - 11/01/2039

    2,199,731        2,368,578  

5.00%, TBA (F)

    6,030,000        6,387,645  

5.50%, 04/01/2037 - 12/01/2041

    1,112,755        1,221,153  

6.00%, 08/01/2036 - 06/01/2041

      2,109,918          2,327,500  

6.50%, 05/01/2040

    165,382        184,077  

Government National Mortgage Association, Interest Only STRIPS
0.78% (D), 02/16/2053

    767,981        35,142  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $112,373,962)

 

     112,530,000  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 7.7%  
U.S. Treasury - 6.9%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.25%, 08/15/2046

    4,396,000        3,786,055  

2.50%, 02/15/2045 - 05/15/2046

    12,009,000        10,932,533  

2.75%, 08/15/2042 - 11/15/2047

    7,534,600        7,217,398  

2.88%, 08/15/2045

    5,077,000        4,975,658  

3.00%, 05/15/2042

    2,001,000        2,013,194  

3.13%, 02/15/2042

    3,089,000        3,174,068  

3.50%, 02/15/2039

    8,413,500        9,166,114  

3.63%, 02/15/2044

    11,217,700        12,514,308  

4.50%, 02/15/2036

    5,950,600        7,276,003  

4.75%, 02/15/2037

    7,403,000        9,382,435  

5.25%, 02/15/2029

    6,374,000        7,760,096  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.00%, 11/30/2019

    12,918,000        12,656,108  

1.13%, 06/30/2021 - 09/30/2021

    2,832,000        2,708,192  

1.25%, 11/30/2018

    6,773,700        6,750,416  

1.50%, 08/15/2026

    921,000        831,778  

1.63%, 03/31/2019 - 05/15/2026

    16,880,600        16,273,215  

2.25%, 11/15/2027

    2,300,200        2,186,538  
    

 

 

 
       119,604,109  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.8%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond

    

1.75%, 01/15/2028

    1,636,817        1,788,503  

2.50%, 01/15/2029

    4,809,048        5,650,836  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Note
0.63%, 01/15/2024

    6,330,430        6,322,028  
    

 

 

 
       13,761,367  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $135,847,803)

 

     133,365,476  
    

 

 

 
COMMERCIAL PAPER - 4.2%  
Banks - 1.1%  

Bedford Row Funding Corp.
2.35% (H), 07/02/2018

    2,800,000        2,799,642  

Macquarie Bank, Ltd.
2.34% (H), 07/20/2018

    3,700,000        3,695,293  

Natixis
2.28% (H), 08/09/2018

    6,000,000        5,985,067  

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.
2.33% (H), 09/14/2018

    6,500,000        6,468,713  
    

 

 

 
       18,948,715  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
COMMERCIAL PAPER (continued)  
Capital Markets - 0.4%  

Credit Suisse New York
2.37% (H), 08/03/2018

    $   7,000,000        $   6,984,662  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.4%  

Charta LLC
2.31% (H), 09/07/2018

    6,800,000        6,770,414  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 2.3%  

Alpine Securitizaton Corp.
2.36% (H), 10/01/2018

    7,000,000        6,958,228  

Anglesea Funding LLC
2.37% (H), 09/04/2018

    6,500,000        6,472,353  

Anglesea Funding PLC
2.37% (H), 10/02/2018

    7,000,000        6,957,596  

Gotham Funding Corp.
2.29% (H), 08/30/2018

    2,400,000        2,390,850  

Liberty Street Funding LLC
2.32% (H), 08/09/2018

    1,500,000        1,496,200  

LMA SA
2.35% (H), 09/17/2018

    6,500,000        6,467,193  

Nieuw Amsterdam Receivables Corp.
2.31% (H), 09/11/2018

    1,500,000        1,493,095  

Sheffield Receivable
2.34% (H), 09/14/2018

    6,500,000        6,468,576  
    

 

 

 
       38,704,091  
    

 

 

 

Total Commercial Paper
(Cost $71,407,882)

 

     71,407,882  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 1.0%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.71% (H), 07/05/2018

    14,550,000        14,546,604  

1.91% (H), 09/27/2018

    2,512,000        2,500,328  
     Principal      Value  
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Bill (continued)

    

2.03% (H), 01/31/2019 (I)

    $   505,000        $   498,860  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $17,542,636)

 

     17,545,792  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.8%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (H)

    13,409,247        13,409,247  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $13,409,247)

 

     13,409,247  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.0%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (H), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $17,980,111 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $18,343,919.

    $  17,978,763        17,978,763  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $17,978,763)

 

     17,978,763  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,679,307,104)

 

     1,823,536,396  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (5.6)%

 

     (96,335,170
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  1,727,201,226  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                
Description   Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
   Unrealized
Depreciation
 

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long       90        09/21/2018     $   12,414,120      $   12,247,200      $  —    $   (166,920

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (J)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 1,037,112,022     $     $     $ 1,037,112,022  

Preferred Stocks

    540,585                   540,585  

Asset-Backed Securities

          63,978,851             63,978,851  

Corporate Debt Securities

          278,381,450             278,381,450  

Foreign Government Obligations

          8,158,343             8,158,343  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          64,139,230             64,139,230  

Municipal Government Obligations

          4,988,755             4,988,755  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          112,530,000             112,530,000  

U.S. Government Obligations

          133,365,476             133,365,476  

Commercial Paper

          71,407,882             71,407,882  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          17,545,792             17,545,792  

Securities Lending Collateral

    13,409,247                   13,409,247  

Repurchase Agreement

          17,978,763             17,978,763  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,051,061,854     $ 772,474,542     $     $ 1,823,536,396  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION (continued):

 

Valuation Inputs (continued) (J)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (K)

  $ (166,920   $     $     $ (166,920
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (166,920   $     $     $ (166,920
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(C)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $13,119,861. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(D)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(E)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $184,613,714, representing 10.7% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(F)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(G)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(H)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(I)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $380,319.
(J)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(K)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities
TBA    To Be Announced

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $1,661,328,341)
(including securities loaned of $13,119,861)

  $ 1,805,557,633  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $17,978,763)

    17,978,763  

Cash

    8,493  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    639,000  

Futures contracts

    205,000  

TBA commitments

    12,437  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    2,756  

Investments sold

    12,798,176  

Interest

    4,887,923  

Dividends

    764,292  

Net income from securities lending

    3,705  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    7,689  

Prepaid expenses

    6,197  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    1,842,872,064  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

TBA commitments

    928,437  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    349,125  

Investments purchased

    11,402,300  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    88,238,850  

Investment management fees

    866,643  

Distribution and service fees

    280,652  

Transfer agent costs

    3,583  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    5,988  

Audit and tax fees

    27,858  

Custody fees

    12,680  

Legal fees

    17,085  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    107,435  

Other

    20,955  

Collateral for securities on loan

    13,409,247  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    115,670,838  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   1,727,201,226  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 1,156,691  

Additional paid-in capital

    1,415,105,755  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    33,939,423  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    132,936,985  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    144,229,292  

Futures contracts

    (166,920
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 1,727,201,226  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 330,233,827  

Service Class

    1,396,967,399  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    21,730,704  

Service Class

    93,938,402  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 15.20  

Service Class

    14.87  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 9,332,888  

Interest income

    10,531,277  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    41,207  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    19,905,372  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    5,471,354  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,776,251  

Transfer agent costs

    12,699  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    27,731  

Audit and tax fees

    27,630  

Custody fees

    96,126  

Legal fees

    51,996  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    71,519  

Other

    24,627  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    7,559,933  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    12,345,439  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    65,767,475  

Futures contracts

    829,978  

Foreign currency transactions

    46  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    66,597,499  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (77,659,541

Futures contracts

    (238,908

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (4
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (77,898,453
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

      (11,300,954
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 1,044,485  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 12,345,439     $ 20,628,763  

Net realized gain (loss)

    66,597,499       71,061,831  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (77,898,453     125,378,755  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    1,044,485       217,069,349  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (2,851,441

Service Class

          (10,639,044
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (13,490,485
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (3,729,512

Service Class

          (16,037,227
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (19,766,739
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (33,257,224
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    5,570,711       13,667,614  

Service Class

    10,263,093       324,028,331  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    15,833,804       337,695,945  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          6,580,953  

Service Class

          26,676,271  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          33,257,224  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (19,989,888     (33,021,994

Service Class

    (87,666,648     (64,348,265
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (107,656,536     (97,370,259
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (91,822,732     273,582,910  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (90,778,247     457,395,035  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,817,979,473       1,360,584,438  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,727,201,226     $   1,817,979,473  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 33,939,423     $ 21,593,984  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    364,973       955,957  

Service Class

    687,995       23,483,470  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,052,968       24,439,427  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          462,471  

Service Class

          1,912,277  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,374,748  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,318,537     (2,285,356

Service Class

    (5,897,623     (4,478,512
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (7,216,160     (6,763,868
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (953,564     (866,928

Service Class

    (5,209,628     20,917,235  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (6,163,192     20,050,307  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 15.17     $ 13.56     $ 13.11     $ 13.97     $ 13.57     $ 12.08  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.12       0.20       0.19 (B)       0.19       0.20 (C)       0.19 (C)  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.09     1.69       0.83       (0.18     1.24       1.94  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.03       1.89       1.02       0.01       1.44       2.13  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.12     (0.13     (0.19     (0.20     (0.21

Net realized gains

          (0.16     (0.44     (0.68     (0.84     (0.43
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.28     (0.57     (0.87     (1.04     (0.64
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 15.20     $ 15.17     $ 13.56     $ 13.11     $ 13.97     $ 13.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    0.20 %(E)      14.14     7.87     0.21     10.81     18.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   330,234     $   344,156     $   319,369     $   315,342     $   347,751     $   326,997  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.66 %(F)      0.66     0.70     0.73     0.77 %(G)      0.82 %(G) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.66 %(F)      0.66     0.69 %(B)      0.73     0.77 %(G)      0.82 %(G) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.61 %(F)      1.42     1.45 %(B)      1.40     1.46 %(C)      1.44 %(C) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    25 %(E)      39     35     46     86 %(H)      122 %(H) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 14.86     $ 13.31     $ 12.89     $ 13.76     $ 13.39     $ 11.94  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.10       0.17       0.16 (B)       0.16       0.16 (C)       0.15 (C)  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.09     1.65       0.81       (0.18     1.22       1.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.01       1.82       0.97       (0.02     1.38       2.07  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.11     (0.11     (0.17     (0.17     (0.19

Net realized gains

          (0.16     (0.44     (0.68     (0.84     (0.43
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.27     (0.55     (0.85     (1.01     (0.62
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 14.87     $ 14.86     $ 13.31     $ 12.89     $ 13.76     $ 13.39  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    0.07 %(E)      13.82     7.64     (0.06 )%      10.50     17.75
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,396,967     $   1,473,823     $   1,041,215     $   411,509     $   330,408     $   251,673  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.91 %(F)      0.91     0.95     0.98     1.02 %(G)      1.07 %(G) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.91 %(F)      0.91     0.94 %(B)      0.98     1.02 %(G)      1.07 %(G) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.36 %(F)      1.17     1.20 %(B)      1.16     1.21 %(C)      1.19 %(C) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    25 %(E)      39     35     46     86 %(H)      122 %(H) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $10,998.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION

 

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Commercial paper: Commercial paper is valued using amortized cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

 

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Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to

 

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Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 5,194,409     $     $     $     $ 5,194,409  

Preferred Stocks

    85,179                         85,179  

Corporate Debt Securities

    6,487,539                         6,487,539  

Foreign Government Obligations

    1,642,120                         1,642,120  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 13,409,247     $     $     $     $ 13,409,247  

Total Borrowings

  $   13,409,247     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   13,409,247  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

 

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Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $     $ (166,920   $     $     $ (166,920

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (166,920   $   —     $   —     $   (166,920
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ 829,978     $     $     $ 829,978  

Total

  $     $     $ 829,978     $     $     $ 829,978  
                                                 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ (238,908   $     $     $ (238,908

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (238,908   $   —     $   —     $   (238,908
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long    Short
3,314   

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $1 billion

     0.65

Over $1 billion up to $5 billion

     0.59  

Over $5 billion

     0.58  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.85      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.10        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio’s operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    28


Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

 

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  367,208,208   $  43,890,601     $  405,716,598   $  62,107,703

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,679,307,104   $  183,457,038   $  (39,394,666)   $  144,062,372

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreements (each a “Sub-Advisory Agreement,” collectively the “Sub-Advisory Agreements” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and each of Aegon USA Investment Management, LLC (“AUIM”) and J.P. Morgan Investment Management, Inc. (“J.P. Morgan”) (each a “Sub-Adviser” and collectively the “Sub-Advisers”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and each Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and each Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and each Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and each Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or any Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of each of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and each Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and each Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of each Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for each Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

(ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and each Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s equity sub-adviser, J.P. Morgan, had commenced subadvising that portion of the Portfolio on March 21, 2011 pursuant to its current equity investment strategies. The Board also noted that the Portfolio’s fixed-income sub-adviser, AUIM, had commenced subadvising that portion of the Portfolio on May 1, 2014 pursuant to its current fixed-income investment strategies. The Trustees also noted recent changes in the portfolio management team at AUIM. The Trustees noted that TAM intends to monitor and report to the Board on the portfolio manager transition and performance going forward.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Advisers for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fees and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and in line with the medians for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Advisers under the Management Agreement and each Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Multi-Managed Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Advisers, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fees are the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and J.P. Morgan, which is not affiliated with TAM, and are paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, for J.P. Morgan, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio. With respect to AUIM, the Board noted that information about AUIM’s revenues and expenses was incorporated into the profitability analysis for TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on profitability information for TAM and its affiliates and AUIM in the aggregate.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or a Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered each Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fees paid to the Sub-Advisers in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Advisers from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Advisers from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by J.P. Morgan is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Advisers. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of each Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    32


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   984.80     $   0.00     $   1,024.80     $   0.00       0.00 %(D) 

Service Class

    1,000.00       990.00       3.95       1,020.80       4.01       0.80  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.
(D)    Rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Alternative Funds

     31.6

International Alternative Funds

     31.0  

International Fixed Income Fund

     18.9  

International Equity Funds

     9.2  

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     3.6  

U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund

     2.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     3.0  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUND - 2.4%  
International Fixed Income Fund - 2.4%  

iShares JPMorgan EM Local Currency Bond ETF

    1,577        $  69,940  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Fund
(Cost $71,846)

 

     69,940  
    

 

 

 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 94.6%  
International Alternative Funds - 31.0%  

Transamerica Global Multifactor Macro (A) (B)

    42,709        386,519  

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond (A) (B)

    51,970        514,498  
    

 

 

 
       901,017  
    

 

 

 
International Equity Funds - 9.2%  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity (A) (B)

    15,849        167,210  

Transamerica Global Real Estate Securities (A) (B)

    7,235        100,348  
    

 

 

 
       267,558  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Funds - 16.5%  

Transamerica Emerging Markets Debt (A) (B)

    19,386        194,443  

Transamerica Inflation Opportunities (A) (B)

    28,795        285,938  
    

 

 

 
       480,381  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Alternative Funds - 31.6%  

Transamerica Arbitrage Strategy Liquidating Trust (B) (C) (D) (E)

    101        1,170  
     Shares      Value  
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (continued)  
U.S. Alternative Funds (continued)  

Transamerica Event Driven (A) (B)

    30,078        $   317,027  

Transamerica Long/Short Strategy (A) (B)

    48,488        300,628  

Transamerica Managed Futures Strategy (A) (B)

    40,202        299,106  
    

 

 

 
       917,931  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 3.6%  

Transamerica Core Bond (A) (B)

    3,003        28,974  

Transamerica High Yield Bond (A) (B)

    8,297        75,333  
    

 

 

 
       104,307  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Mixed Allocation Fund - 2.7%  

Transamerica MLP & Energy Income (A) (B)

    10,895        79,753  
    

 

 

 

Total Investment Companies
(Cost $2,821,476)

 

     2,750,947  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $2,893,322)

 

     2,820,887  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 3.0%

       88,249  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  2,909,136  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (F)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Exchange-Traded Fund

  $ 69,940     $     $     $ 69,940  

Investment Companies

    2,749,777                   2,749,777  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   2,819,717     $   —     $   —     $   2,819,717  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment Companies Measured at Net Asset Value (G)

          1,170  
       

 

 

 

Total Investments

        $ 2,820,887  
       

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Investment in the Class I2 shares of the affiliated series of Transamerica Funds.
(B)    Affiliated investment. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s transactions and earnings from investments in affiliates of TAM are as follows:

 

Affiliated

Investments

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Arbitrage Strategy Liquidating Trust

  $ 983     $     $     $     $ 187     $ 1,170       101     $     $  

Transamerica Core Bond

    42,705       7,353       (20,000     (411     (673     28,974       3,003       353        

Transamerica Developing Markets Equity

    35,083       27,000       (62,523     5,434       (4,994                        

Transamerica Emerging Markets Debt

    141,531       82,217       (14,000     (74     (15,231     194,443       19,386       4,217        

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

Affiliated

Investments (continued)

  Value
December 31,
2017
    Purchases
at Cost
    Proceeds
from Sales
    Net
Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Net Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Value
June 30, 2018
    Shares as of
June 30, 2018
    Dividend
Income
    Net Capital
Gain
Distributions
 

Transamerica Emerging Markets Equity

  $ 38,059     $ 144,999     $ (4,500   $ 822     $ (12,170   $ 167,210       15,849     $     $  

Transamerica Event Driven

    233,043       116,001       (39,000     2,149       4,834       317,027       30,078              

Transamerica Global Multifactor Macro

    273,545       136,001       (39,000     (5,104     21,077       386,519       42,709              

Transamerica Global Real Estate Securities

    71,980       50,546       (20,500     (1,222     (456     100,348       7,235       546        

Transamerica High Yield Bond

    123,691       57,316       (102,000     (2,827     (847     75,333       8,297       4,709        

Transamerica Inflation Opportunities

    213,204       104,015       (27,000     23       (4,304     285,938       28,795       3,015        

Transamerica Long/Short Strategy

    219,015       117,001       (36,000     (16,938     17,550       300,628       48,488              

Transamerica Managed Futures Strategy

    218,298       114,499       (18,000     (8,539     (7,152     299,106       40,202              

Transamerica MLP & Energy Income

    63,691       55,574       (39,500     (1,565     1,553       79,753       10,895       2,130        

Transamerica Unconstrained Bond

    370,668       206,423       (48,000     1,071       (15,664     514,498       51,970       9,959        
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   2,045,496     $   1,218,945     $   (470,023 )    $   (27,181 )    $   (16,290 )    $   2,750,947       307,008     $   24,929     $   —  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(C)    Non-income producing security.
(D)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $1,170 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Restricted security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such security held by the Portfolio is as follows:

 

Investments   Description    Acquisition
Date
   Acquisition
Cost
     Value      Value as Percentage
of Net Assets

Investment Companies

 

Transamerica Arbitrage Strategy Liquidating Trust

   09/18/2015    $  1,012      $  1,170      0.0%(H)

 

(F)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(G)    Certain investments are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share, or its equivalent, practical expedient and have not been classified in the fair value levels. The fair value amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the Total Investments amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.
(H)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Affiliated investments, at value (cost $2,821,476)

  $ 2,750,947  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $71,846)

    69,940  

Cash

    97,663  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    33,917  

Due from investment manager

    1,404  

Dividends

    4,378  

Prepaid expenses

    7  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    2,958,256  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    9  

Affiliated investments purchased

    40,186  

Distribution and service fees

    527  

Transfer agent costs

    2  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    3  

Audit and tax fees

    8,067  

Custody fees

    284  

Legal fees

    22  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    8  

Other

    12  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    49,120  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 2,909,136  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 2,931  

Additional paid-in capital

    3,001,155  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    36,146  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (58,661

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (70,529

Unaffiliated investments

    (1,906
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   2,909,136  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10  

Service Class

    2,909,126  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    1  

Service Class

    293,115  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 9.74 (A)  

Service Class

    9.92  

 

(A)    Actual net asset value per share presented differs from calculated net asset value per share due to rounding.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated investments

  $ 24,929  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    48  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    24,977  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    2,429  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    3,155  

Transfer agent costs

    15  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    35  

Audit and tax fees

    8,064  

Custody fees

    1,619  

Legal fees

    72  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    2,279  

Other

    112  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    17,780  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Service Class

    (7,684
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    10,096  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    14,881  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (27,181

Unaffiliated investments

    208  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    (26,973
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Affiliated investments

    (16,290

Unaffiliated investments

    (1,906
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (18,196
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (45,169
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (30,288
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:    

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 14,881     $ 26,284  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (26,973     5,682  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (18,196     61,535  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (30,288     93,501  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (0 )(A) 

Service Class

          (26,288
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (26,288
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

   

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Service Class

    1,188,937       408,513  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,188,937       408,513  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          0 (A)  

Service Class

          26,288  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          26,288  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Service Class

    (359,598     (332,704
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (359,598     (332,704
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    829,339       102,097  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    799,051       169,310  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    2,110,085       1,940,775  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   2,909,136     $   2,110,085  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 36,146     $ 21,265  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued:

   

Service Class

    118,602       41,342  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    118,602       41,342  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          0 (B)  

Service Class

          2,688  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,688  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Service Class

    (36,070     (33,670
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (36,070     (33,670
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

          0 (B)  

Service Class

    82,532       10,360  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    82,532       10,360  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)    Rounds to less than $1.
(B)    Rounds to less than 1 or (1) share.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 9.88     $ 9.49     $ 9.48     $ 10.16     $ 10.00     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

    0.04       0.10       0.16       0.30       0.07       (0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.18     0.44       0.13       (0.86     0.20       0.01  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

      (0.14     0.54       0.29       (0.56     0.27       0.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

            (0.15     (0.28     (0.04     (0.05      

Net realized gains

                      (0.08     (0.06      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.15       (0.28       (0.12       (0.11      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.74     $ 9.88     $ 9.49     $ 9.48     $ 10.16     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.52 )%(E)      5.75     3.06     (5.60 )%      2.68     0.00 %(E) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 0 (F)     $ 0 (F)     $ 0 (F)     $ 0 (F)     $ 0 (F)     $ 0 (F)  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.00 %(H)(I)      0.10     0.00 %(I)      0.00 %(I)      8.62       92.15 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.00 %(H)(I)      0.10     0.00 %(I)      0.00 %(I)      0.55     0.60 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

    0.77 %(H)      1.07     1.72     2.96     0.69     (0.60 )%(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (J)

    19 %(E)      78     75     88     74     8 %(E) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on October 31, 2013.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Rounds to less than $1,000.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.
(J)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.02     $ 9.69     $ 9.75     $ 10.44     $ 10.25     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B) (C)

    0.06       0.13       0.11 (D)       0.30       0.17       0.04  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.16     0.33       0.09       (0.88     0.13       0.21  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.10     0.46       0.20       (0.58     0.30       0.25  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.13     (0.26     (0.03     (0.05      

Net realized gains

                      (0.08     (0.06      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.13     (0.26     (0.11     (0.11      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.92     $ 10.02     $ 9.69     $ 9.75     $ 10.44     $   10.25  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (E)

    (1.00 )%(F)      4.76     2.01     (5.61 )%      2.95     2.50 %(F) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   2,909     $   2,110     $   1,941     $   2,022     $   1,191     $ 170  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.41 %(H)      1.66     1.37     1.44     8.88     91.84 %(H) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.80 %(H)      0.80     0.76 %(D)      0.80     0.80     0.80 %(H) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (C)

    1.18 %(H)      1.28     1.07 %(D)      2.94     1.63     2.59 %(H) 

Portfolio turnover rate (I)

    19 %(F)      78     75     88     74     8 %(F) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on October 31, 2013.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(D)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.04% higher and 0.04% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    Does not include portfolio activity of the underlying funds in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Restricted securities: Restricted securities for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Portfolio’s Board. Restricted securities issued by publicly traded companies are generally valued at a discount to similar publicly traded securities. Restricted securities issued by nonpublic entities may be valued by reference to comparable public entities and/or fundamental data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Aegon USA Investment Management LLC (“AUIM”) is both an affiliate and a sub-adviser of the Portfolio.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, AUIM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

All of the Portfolio holdings in investment companies are considered affiliated. Interest, dividends, realized and unrealized gains (losses) are broken out within the Statement of Operations.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.1925

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.1725  

Over $1 billion up to $2 billion

     0.1525  

Over $2 billion

     0.1425  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.55    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.80      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available  

Total

2015   2016   2017   2018
$  2,373   $  12,081   $  17,781   $  7,684   $  39,919

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  1,267,846     $  470,023

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost  

Gross

Appreciation

  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  2,893,322   $  16,952   $  (89,387)   $  (72,435)

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Multi-Manager Alternative Strategies VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 3-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its primary benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its primary benchmark for the past 3-year period. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 7, 2017 pursuant to its current investment strategies. The Trustees also noted recent changes in the Portfolio’s portfolio management team. The Trustees noted that TAM intends to monitor and report to the Board on the portfolio manager transition and performance going forward. The Trustees observed that the performance of the Portfolio had improved during the first quarter of 2018.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

    $  1,000.00       $  989.00       $  4.54       $  1,020.20       $  4.61       0.92

Service Class

    1,000.00       988.80       5.77       1,019.00       5.86       1.17  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     6.65  

Duration †

     3.56  
Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Repurchase Agreements

     47.5

U.S. Government Obligations

     31.9  

Corporate Debt Securities

     27.4  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     14.4  

Asset-Backed Securities

     3.9  

Foreign Government Obligations

     3.4  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     2.6  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

     1.1  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     0.9  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.6  

Municipal Government Obligations

     0.4  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

     0.3  

Certificates of Deposit

     0.2  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

     0.2  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (34.8

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 3.9%  

Ameriquest Mortgage Securities, Inc.
Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2004-R3, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 2.87% (A), 05/25/2034

    $  477,850        $  478,329  

Avery Point IV CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 04/25/2026 (B)

    700,000        700,085  

Babson CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-IIA, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 10/17/2026 (B)

    400,000        400,041  

BlueMountain CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 3.25% (A), 10/29/2025 (B)

    457,010        457,003  

California Republic Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A1,
2.45%, 07/15/2019

    600,000        600,021  

Carlyle Global Market Strategies CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-5A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.14%, 3.49% (A), 10/16/2025 (B)

    600,000        600,004  

Cent CLO 21, Ltd.
Series 2014-21A, Class A1BR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.21%, 3.58% (A), 07/27/2026 (B)

    700,000        700,026  

Colony Starwood Homes Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (A), 07/17/2033 (B)

    1,066,727        1,071,579  

Crown Point CLO, Ltd.
Series 2018-5A, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.94%, 0.00% (A) (C), 07/17/2028 (B) (D) (E)

    900,000        900,000  

CVP Cascade CLO-1, Ltd.
Series 2013-CLO1, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 01/16/2026 (B)

    1,703,427        1,703,592  

Denali Capital CLO XI, Ltd.
Series 2015-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.51% (A), 04/20/2027 (B)

    1,200,000        1,200,166  

Dryden XXV Senior Loan Fund
Series 2012-25A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 10/15/2027 (B)

    1,400,000        1,399,194  

FFMLT Trust
Series 2005-FF2, Class M4,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 2.98% (A), 03/25/2035

    366,996        369,509  

Figueroa CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class A1RR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.92% (A), 06/20/2027 (B) (E)

    500,000        500,000  

Flagship CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-8A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.90% (A), 01/16/2026 (B) (E)

      400,000          402,840  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Flagship VII, Ltd.
Series 2013-7A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.12%, 3.48% (A), 01/20/2026 (B)

    $   1,371,163        $   1,371,176  

Ford Credit Auto Owner Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A,
2.03%, 12/15/2027 (B)

    2,200,000        2,130,245  

Halcyon Loan Advisors Funding, Ltd.
Series 2014-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 10/22/2025 (B)

    1,300,000        1,300,162  

KVK CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 01/15/2026 (B)

    577,336        577,398  

Loomis Sayles CLO II, Ltd.
Series 2015-2A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 04/15/2028 (B)

    1,600,000        1,597,947  

Mountain View CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.90% (A), 10/15/2026 (B) (E)

    800,000        800,000  

Northstar Education Finance, Inc.
Series 2012-1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.79% (A), 12/26/2031 (B)

    45,889        46,075  

Oak Hill Credit Partners X, Ltd.
Series 2014-10A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.13%, 3.49% (A), 07/20/2026 (B)

    800,000        800,101  

Oaktree CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-2A, Class A1AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.22%, 3.58% (A), 10/20/2026 (B)

    700,000        700,125  

PHEAA Student Loan Trust
Series 2016-2A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.04% (A), 11/25/2065 (B)

    571,274        578,595  

Progress Residential Trust
Series 2016-SFR1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (A), 09/17/2033 (B)

    988,187        989,694  

SMB Private Education Loan Trust

    

Series 2016-B, Class A2B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.45%, 3.52% (A), 02/17/2032 (B)

    1,785,843        1,824,535  

Series 2016-C, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.62% (A), 11/15/2023 (B)

    260,233        260,332  

Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust
Series 2016-3A, Class A2,
1.42%, 10/15/2019 (B)

    89,001        88,954  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $24,401,137)

 

     24,547,728  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT - 0.2%  
Banks - 0.2%  

Barclays Bank PLC
1.94% (F), 09/04/2018

    $   1,500,000        $   1,500,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Certificate of Deposit
(Cost $1,500,000)

 

     1,500,000  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 27.4%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.1%  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
2.93%, 01/15/2025

    400,000        379,745  

Rolls-Royce PLC
3.63%, 10/14/2025 (B)

    200,000        197,152  
    

 

 

 
       576,897  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.7%  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

3.00%, 04/15/2030

    568,228        533,653  

3.25%, 04/15/2030

    189,566        180,214  

British Airways Pass-Through Trust
3.80%, 03/20/2033 (B) (E)

    400,000        400,000  

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

4.00%, 04/29/2026

    38,628        38,780  

5.50%, 04/29/2022

    29,513        30,083  

Norwegian Air Shuttle Pass-Through Trust
4.88%, 11/10/2029 (B)

    1,764,806        1,680,978  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

2.88%, 04/07/2030

    876,212        811,022  

3.10%, 04/07/2030

    876,212        819,258  
    

 

 

 
       4,493,988  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 7.7%  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.
4.40%, 05/19/2026 (B)

    2,300,000        2,254,680  

Bank of America Corp.

    

2.63%, 10/19/2020, MTN

    950,000        938,315  

Fixed until 12/20/2027,
3.42% (A), 12/20/2028

    5,413,000        5,097,283  

Bank of Montreal
1.75%, 06/15/2021 (B)

    1,600,000        1,538,877  

Barclays PLC

    

3.65%, 03/16/2025

    1,200,000        1,123,958  

4.34%, 01/10/2028

    600,000        569,869  

BNP Paribas SA
3.38%, 01/09/2025 (B)

    1,400,000        1,322,556  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

2.40%, 02/18/2020

    4,800,000        4,738,806  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.86%, 3.18% (A), 12/07/2018

    1,310,000        1,313,968  

4.40%, 06/10/2025

    1,200,000        1,193,445  

Citizens Bank NA
2.30%, 12/03/2018, MTN

    300,000        299,584  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
3.75%, 07/21/2026

    1,000,000        936,134  

Dexia Credit Local SA
1.88%, 09/15/2021 (B)

    2,500,000        2,408,985  

HSBC USA, Inc.

    

2.38%, 11/13/2019

    550,000        544,609  

2.75%, 08/07/2020

    1,770,000        1,753,714  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

HSBC USA, Inc. (continued)

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.61%, 2.97% (A), 11/13/2019

    $   460,000        $   462,080  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    

3.25%, 09/23/2022

    200,000        198,146  

3.90%, 07/15/2025

    215,000        214,193  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC

    

4.38%, 03/22/2028

    400,000        394,607  

5.30%, 12/01/2045

    200,000        199,052  

Manufacturers & Traders Trust Co.
2.25%, 07/25/2019

    750,000        744,967  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 1.88%, 4.18% (A), 03/01/2021

    987,000        1,021,779  

Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp.
2.65%, 10/19/2020 (B)

    200,000        196,829  

MUFG Americas Holdings Corp.
2.25%, 02/10/2020

    41,000        40,390  

MUFG Bank, Ltd.
2.30%, 03/05/2020 (B)

    350,000        344,515  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.
1.38%, 07/12/2019

    1,600,000        1,576,279  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    

Fixed until 05/18/2028,
4.89% (A), 05/18/2029

    600,000        597,329  

Fixed until 08/15/2021,
8.63% (A), 08/15/2021 (G)

    1,000,000        1,062,750  

Santander Holdings USA, Inc.
2.70%, 05/24/2019

    811,000        808,557  

Santander UK Group Holdings PLC

    

2.88%, 10/16/2020

    1,660,000        1,636,041  

3.13%, 01/08/2021

    200,000        197,228  

Santander UK PLC
2.38%, 03/16/2020

    3,400,000        3,348,443  

Sberbank of Russia Via SB Capital SA
5.18%, 06/28/2019 (H)

    400,000        405,400  

Stichting AK Rabobank Certificaten
6.50%, 12/29/2049 (G) (H)

    EUR  700,000        971,143  

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.
2.65%, 07/23/2020, MTN

    $  1,790,000        1,767,347  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.
2.63%, 07/14/2026 (I)

    400,000        364,458  

Swedbank AB
2.20%, 03/04/2020 (B)

    1,190,000        1,174,662  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

2.50%, 03/04/2021

    400,000        391,073  

2.55%, 12/07/2020, MTN

    160,000        157,473  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.74% (A), 09/14/2018

    900,000        900,716  

3.00%, 02/19/2025, MTN

    500,000        471,624  

Fixed until 05/22/2027,
3.58% (A), 05/22/2028, MTN

    500,000        479,062  

Westpac Banking Corp.
2.25%, 11/09/2020 (B)

    2,400,000        2,357,406  
    

 

 

 
       48,518,332  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.1%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.
4.38%, 04/15/2038

    600,000        582,483  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Building Products - 0.1%  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.
4.00%, 06/15/2025

    $   140,000        $   140,379  

Masco Corp.
4.45%, 04/01/2025

    40,000        40,135  

Owens Corning

    

3.40%, 08/15/2026

    400,000        364,720  

4.20%, 12/01/2024

    50,000        49,329  
    

 

 

 
       594,563  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.6%  

Brighthouse Holdings LLC
6.50% (J), 07/27/2037 (B) (E) (G)

    300,000        294,000  

Charles Schwab Corp.
Fixed until 12/01/2027,
5.00% (A), 12/01/2027 (G)

    800,000        766,000  

Credit Suisse Group AG
Fixed until 01/12/2028,
3.87% (A), 01/12/2029 (B)

    600,000        564,197  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3.75%, 03/26/2025

    2,900,000        2,789,131  

Deutsche Bank AG
4.25%, 10/14/2021

    600,000        591,522  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3.75%, 05/22/2025

    140,000        136,495  

3.85%, 07/08/2024, MTN

    4,700,000        4,660,519  

Lazard Group LLC
3.75%, 02/13/2025

    81,000        78,441  

Moody’s Corp.

    

2.75%, 07/15/2019

    200,000        199,590  

5.25%, 07/15/2044

    100,000        112,992  

Morgan Stanley

    

Fixed until 04/24/2023,
3.74% (A), 04/24/2024

    600,000        596,400  

4.00%, 07/23/2025, MTN

    140,000        139,574  

5.50%, 07/24/2020, MTN

    4,100,000        4,283,029  

S&P Global, Inc.
4.40%, 02/15/2026

    80,000        82,024  

UBS AG
4.50%, 06/26/2048 (B) (E)

    900,000        917,608  
    

 

 

 
       16,211,522  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.2%  

ERAC USA Finance LLC

    

4.50%, 02/15/2045 (B)

    40,000        37,707  

7.00%, 10/15/2037 (B)

    300,000        374,910  

Republic Services, Inc.
3.55%, 06/01/2022

    1,000,000        1,006,393  
    

 

 

 
       1,419,010  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.7%  

American Express Credit Corp.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.49%, 2.83% (A), 08/15/2019, MTN

    700,000        702,423  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 3.14% (A), 11/05/2018, MTN

    170,000        170,336  

Daimler Finance North America LLC
1.50%, 07/05/2019 (B)

    800,000        788,352  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.

    

3.20%, 07/13/2020

    317,000        315,505  

3.50%, 07/10/2019

    200,000        201,004  

3.70%, 11/24/2020

    1,590,000        1,598,657  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Consumer Finance (continued)  

Hyundai Capital America
2.50%, 03/18/2019 (B)

    $   800,000        $   796,311  

Synchrony Financial

    

2.60%, 01/15/2019

    1,570,000        1,566,982  

2.70%, 02/03/2020

    41,000        40,568  

4.50%, 07/23/2025

    1,780,000        1,748,156  

Toyota Motor Credit Corp.
1.40%, 05/20/2019, MTN

    800,000        791,312  

Volkswagen Group of America Finance LLC
2.13%, 05/23/2019 (B)

    2,100,000        2,082,875  
    

 

 

 
       10,802,481  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.5%  

Nationwide Building Society
3.90%, 07/21/2025 (B)

    3,200,000        3,170,476  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.6%  

AerCap Ireland Capital DAC / AerCap Global Aviation Trust
4.63%, 07/01/2022

    150,000        152,962  

BRFkredit A/S
1.00%, 10/01/2018, MTN

    DKK  3,400,000        534,476  

Helios Leasing I LLC
1.56%, 09/28/2024

    $  109,087        103,777  

ORIX Corp.
3.25%, 12/04/2024

    900,000        859,902  

Protective Life Global Funding
2.70%, 11/25/2020 (B)

    1,590,000        1,568,716  

Tagua Leasing LLC
1.58%, 11/16/2024

    113,369        108,168  

Voya Financial, Inc.
Fixed until 01/23/2028,
4.70% (A), 01/23/2048 (B)

    300,000        267,000  
    

 

 

 
       3,595,001  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.0%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 3.26% (A), 06/30/2020

    170,000        171,899  

3.40%, 05/15/2025

    150,000        140,661  

4.30%, 02/15/2030 (B)

    1,161,000        1,095,875  

5.25%, 03/01/2037

    900,000        885,198  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

3.38%, 02/15/2025

    996,000        953,446  

4.33%, 09/21/2028 (B)

    1,641,000        1,626,397  

4.52%, 09/15/2048

    1,400,000        1,276,396  

4.67%, 03/15/2055

    200,000        177,627  
    

 

 

 
       6,327,499  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 1.6%  

AEP Texas, Inc.
3.95%, 06/01/2028 (B) (E)

    800,000        797,484  

Appalachian Power Co.
3.40%, 06/01/2025

    1,430,000        1,407,814  

Duke Energy Corp.

    

3.75%, 04/15/2024

    200,000        199,573  

3.95%, 10/15/2023

    500,000        505,630  

4.80%, 12/15/2045

    1,600,000        1,673,774  

Duke Energy Florida LLC
3.80%, 07/15/2028

    800,000        804,332  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Electric Utilities (continued)  

Electricite de France SA
3.63%, 10/13/2025 (B)

    $   1,500,000        $   1,468,527  

Entergy Louisiana LLC
3.30%, 12/01/2022

    150,000        147,660  

Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
2.85%, 06/01/2028

    1,300,000        1,191,726  

IPALCO Enterprises, Inc.
3.70%, 09/01/2024

    600,000        581,796  

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
3.50%, 06/15/2025

    40,000        37,316  

Southwestern Electric Power Co.
6.20%, 03/15/2040

    1,000,000        1,236,449  
    

 

 

 
       10,052,081  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.0% (K)  

Schneider Electric SE
2.95%, 09/27/2022 (B)

    150,000        147,270  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.1%  

Arrow Electronics, Inc.
3.25%, 09/08/2024

    500,000        467,406  

Flex, Ltd.
4.75%, 06/15/2025

    50,000        50,480  
    

 

 

 
       517,886  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.3%  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP / Regency Energy Finance Corp.
4.50%, 11/01/2023

    1,900,000        1,911,210  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.6%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

    

3.95%, 01/15/2027

    300,000        289,618  

4.30%, 01/15/2026

    800,000        800,424  

4.50%, 07/30/2029

    700,000        697,473  

American Tower Corp.

    

3.38%, 10/15/2026

    1,400,000        1,295,815  

3.50%, 01/31/2023

    100,000        98,369  

4.00%, 06/01/2025

    1,250,000        1,225,617  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    

4.45%, 02/15/2026

    390,000        386,057  

5.25%, 01/15/2023

    1,600,000        1,676,540  

Digital Realty Trust, LP
3.95%, 07/01/2022

    1,830,000        1,848,702  

Federal Realty Investment Trust
3.63%, 08/01/2046

    250,000        217,175  

Prologis, LP
3.75%, 11/01/2025

    40,000        39,944  

Unibail-Rodamco SE
3-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 3.12% (A), 04/16/2019, MTN (H)

    600,000        602,134  

WP Carey, Inc.
4.60%, 04/01/2024

    800,000        808,354  
    

 

 

 
       9,986,222  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.0% (K)  

CVS Pass-Through Trust
4.16%, 08/11/2036 (B)

    88,448        83,893  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.1%  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.

    

3.50%, 07/15/2022

    50,000        49,419  

4.38%, 06/01/2046

    500,000        432,552  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Food Products (continued)  

Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.
4.60%, 06/01/2044 (I)

    $   300,000        $   312,781  
    

 

 

 
       794,752  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.3%  

ONE Gas, Inc.
2.07%, 02/01/2019

    900,000        896,845  

Southern California Gas Co.
4.13%, 06/01/2048

    900,000        901,818  
    

 

 

 
       1,798,663  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.5%  

Boston Scientific Corp.
3.38%, 05/15/2022

    1,430,000        1,410,726  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    

2.70%, 04/01/2020

    1,640,000        1,624,102  

3.15%, 04/01/2022

    80,000        78,536  

3.55%, 04/01/2025

    80,000        76,153  
    

 

 

 
       3,189,517  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.5%  

Aetna, Inc.
3.50%, 11/15/2024

    50,000        48,570  

AHS Hospital Corp.
5.02%, 07/01/2045

    600,000        682,855  

CVS Health Corp.

    

4.10%, 03/25/2025

    150,000        149,205  

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    600,000        591,846  

4.78%, 03/25/2038

    100,000        98,357  

Hackensack Meridian Health, Inc.
4.50%, 07/01/2057

    300,000        313,165  

Humana, Inc.
4.80%, 03/15/2047

    400,000        410,922  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
3.60%, 02/01/2025

    41,000        40,037  

Northwell Healthcare, Inc.
3.98%, 11/01/2046

    700,000        642,800  
    

 

 

 
       2,977,757  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 1.9%  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc.
4.70%, 06/22/2047

    200,000        164,827  

Chubb INA Holdings, Inc.
3.35%, 05/03/2026

    90,000        87,261  

First American Financial Corp.

    

4.30%, 02/01/2023

    100,000        99,700  

4.60%, 11/15/2024

    50,000        50,486  

Great-West Lifeco Finance, LP
4.05%, 05/17/2028 (B)

    300,000        302,359  

Jackson National Life Global Funding

    

2.30%, 04/16/2019 (B)

    300,000        298,894  

2.60%, 12/09/2020 (B)

    1,580,000        1,555,307  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.
3.75%, 03/14/2026

    50,000        49,511  

Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 04/26/2028,
5.10% (A), 04/26/2048 (B) (I)

    900,000        907,875  

MetLife, Inc.
4.05%, 03/01/2045

    40,000        37,150  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I

    

2.00%, 04/14/2020 (B)

    $   250,000        $   244,812  

2.50%, 12/03/2020 (B) (I)

    1,820,000        1,791,484  

Pacific Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 10/24/2047,
4.30% (A), 10/24/2067 (B)

    1,500,000        1,361,910  

Pricoa Global Funding I

    

2.20%, 05/16/2019 (B)

    200,000        199,192  

2.55%, 11/24/2020 (B)

    1,590,000        1,565,891  

Principal Life Global Funding II

    

2.20%, 04/08/2020 (B)

    1,300,000        1,279,498  

3.00%, 04/18/2026 (B)

    500,000        468,747  

Reliance Standard Life Global Funding II

    

2.15%, 10/15/2018 (B)

    210,000        209,687  

2.50%, 04/24/2019 (B)

    100,000        99,638  

Teachers Insurance & Annuity Association of America
4.27%, 05/15/2047 (B)

    1,200,000        1,147,598  

Travelers Cos., Inc.
3.75%, 05/15/2046

    100,000        91,633  

XLIT, Ltd.
4.45%, 03/31/2025

    40,000        39,355  
    

 

 

 
       12,052,815  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.0% (K)  

Amazon.com, Inc.
2.50%, 11/29/2022

    200,000        194,099  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.1%  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    

3.88%, 06/05/2024

    28,000        27,915  

4.50%, 10/15/2022

    819,000        844,983  
    

 

 

 
       872,898  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.0% (K)  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.
3.30%, 02/15/2022

    110,000        109,358  
    

 

 

 
Marine - 0.1%  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S
3.88%, 09/28/2025 (B)

    450,000        434,789  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.1%  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital

    

4.20%, 03/15/2028 (I)

    800,000        748,944  

4.46%, 07/23/2022

    2,000,000        2,024,574  

5.38%, 05/01/2047

    700,000        635,668  

Comcast Corp.

    

4.40%, 08/15/2035

    50,000        48,650  

4.75%, 03/01/2044

    2,400,000        2,362,908  

Cox Communications, Inc.
3.25%, 12/15/2022 (B)

    100,000        97,135  

Discovery Communications LLC
5.00%, 09/20/2037

    500,000        481,425  

SES SA
3.60%, 04/04/2023 (B)

    200,000        194,260  

Sky PLC

    

3.13%, 11/26/2022 (B)

    80,000        78,396  

3.75%, 09/16/2024 (B)

    200,000        198,845  
    

 

 

 
       6,870,805  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Multi-Utilities - 0.1%  

E.ON International Finance BV
6.65%, 04/30/2038 (B)

    $   666,000        $   817,357  

Sempra Energy
2.88%, 10/01/2022

    150,000        145,337  
    

 

 

 
       962,694  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 1.0%  

APT Pipelines, Ltd.
4.25%, 07/15/2027 (B)

    500,000        490,005  

Dolphin Energy, Ltd. LLC
5.50%, 12/15/2021 (H) (I)

    400,000        421,000  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP

    

4.05%, 03/15/2025

    400,000        386,486  

4.75%, 01/15/2026

    100,000        99,150  

7.50%, 07/01/2038

    150,000        171,198  

Petroleos Mexicanos
6.00%, 03/05/2020

    128,000        132,160  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.
7.50%, 01/15/2020

    650,000        691,239  

Plains All American Pipeline, LP / PAA Finance Corp.
3.60%, 11/01/2024

    100,000        94,705  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC
5.75%, 05/15/2024

    1,700,000        1,813,313  

Shell International Finance BV
4.00%, 05/10/2046

    800,000        774,796  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.
7.63%, 01/15/2039

    400,000        522,561  

TransCanada Trust
Fixed until 03/15/2027,
5.30% (A), 03/15/2077

    300,000        283,655  

Woodside Finance, Ltd.

    

3.65%, 03/05/2025 (B)

    40,000        38,981  

3.70%, 03/15/2028 (B) (I)

    700,000        661,538  
    

 

 

 
       6,580,787  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.6%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.85%, 06/15/2024

    100,000        98,200  

Baxalta, Inc.
3.60%, 06/23/2022

    50,000        49,486  

Bayer US Finance II LLC
4.63%, 06/25/2038 (B)

    1,600,000        1,586,188  

ELI Lilly & Co.
3.10%, 05/15/2027

    500,000        478,602  

Johnson & Johnson
3.63%, 03/03/2037

    800,000        781,762  

Mylan, Inc.
4.55%, 04/15/2028 (B)

    400,000        390,902  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC

    

2.88%, 09/23/2023

    300,000        282,238  

3.20%, 09/23/2026

    500,000        458,194  
    

 

 

 
       4,125,572  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.4%  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC

    

4.13%, 06/15/2047

    1,300,000        1,271,497  

5.15%, 09/01/2043

    200,000        221,666  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Road & Rail (continued)  

Canadian National Railway Co.
2.25%, 11/15/2022

    $   400,000        $   381,530  

JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc.
2.40%, 03/15/2019

    100,000        99,748  

Kansas City Southern
4.95%, 08/15/2045

    500,000        502,723  

Union Pacific Corp.
4.10%, 09/15/2067

    300,000        263,212  
    

 

 

 
       2,740,376  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.1%  

Intel Corp.
4.10%, 05/11/2047

    700,000        697,996  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.3%  

Autodesk, Inc.
4.38%, 06/15/2025

    100,000        100,700  

Microsoft Corp.
4.10%, 02/06/2037

    800,000        833,500  

Oracle Corp.
2.95%, 05/15/2025

    1,250,000        1,193,322  
    

 

 

 
       2,127,522  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 0.1%  

QVC, Inc.

    

4.45%, 02/15/2025

    300,000        289,943  

4.85%, 04/01/2024

    100,000        99,248  
    

 

 

 
       389,191  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.6%  

Apple, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.66% (A), 05/06/2019

    400,000        400,969  

2.90%, 09/12/2027

    400,000        375,496  

3.20%, 05/11/2027

    400,000        385,789  

3.35%, 02/09/2027

    400,000        390,599  

3.75%, 09/12/2047

    300,000        281,165  

4.65%, 02/23/2046

    400,000        430,920  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
8.10%, 07/15/2036 (B)

    1,100,000        1,291,575  
    

 

 

 
       3,556,513  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.3%  

BAT Capital Corp.
4.39%, 08/15/2037 (B)

    1,300,000        1,219,584  

BAT International Finance PLC
3.50%, 06/15/2022 (B)

    50,000        49,525  

Imperial Brands Finance PLC
3.75%, 07/21/2022 (B)

    200,000        198,511  

Reynolds American, Inc.

    

4.00%, 06/12/2022

    50,000        50,311  

4.85%, 09/15/2023

    100,000        103,944  
    

 

 

 
       1,621,875  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.1%  

GATX Corp.
3.25%, 09/15/2026

    400,000        369,312  
    

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure - 0.1%  

Penske Truck Leasing Co., LP / PTL Finance Corp.
3.95%, 03/10/2025 (B)

    600,000        593,003  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Transportation Infrastructure (continued)  

Sydney Airport Finance Co. Pty, Ltd.
3.38%, 04/30/2025 (B)

    $   50,000        $   47,828  
    

 

 

 
       640,831  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.2%  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC

    

4.74%, 03/20/2025 (B)

    600,000        595,380  

5.15%, 09/20/2029 (B)

    600,000        588,000  
    

 

 

 
       1,183,380  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $176,967,409)

 

     173,282,316  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 3.4%  
Canada - 0.5%  

Province of Ontario
1.65%, 09/27/2019

    1,200,000        1,185,540  

Province of Quebec
2.50%, 04/20/2026

    1,700,000        1,616,770  
    

 

 

 
       2,802,310  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 1.0%  

Japan Finance Organization for Municipalities
2.13%, 04/13/2021 - 10/25/2023 (B)

    3,900,000        3,709,803  

Tokyo Metropolitan Government
2.00%, 05/17/2021 (B)

    2,600,000        2,510,651  
    

 

 

 
       6,220,454  
    

 

 

 
Kuwait - 0.1%  

Kuwait International Government Bond
3.50%, 03/20/2027 (B)

    800,000        778,736  
    

 

 

 
Qatar - 0.8%  

Qatar Government International Bond

    

2.38%, 06/02/2021 (H)

    4,100,000        3,956,910  

4.50%, 01/20/2022 (H)

    700,000        716,275  

5.10%, 04/23/2048 (B)

    600,000        598,176  
    

 

 

 
       5,271,361  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.2%  

Export-Import Bank of Korea

    

1.93%, 02/24/2020 (B) (E)

    CAD  400,000        299,955  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 3.02% (A), 05/26/2019

    $  800,000        800,936  
    

 

 

 
       1,100,891  
    

 

 

 
Saudi Arabia - 0.7%  

Saudi Arabia Government International Bond

    

3.63%, 03/04/2028 (B)

    4,300,000        4,088,784  

4.63%, 10/04/2047 (B) (I)

    600,000        559,308  
    

 

 

 
       4,648,092  
    

 

 

 
United Arab Emirates - 0.1%  

Abu Dhabi Government International Bond
3.13%, 10/11/2027 (B)

    700,000        651,420  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $22,237,688)

 

     21,473,264  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  

MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 2.6%

 

Aggregator of Loans Backed by Assets PLC
Series 2015-1, Class A,
1-Month GBP LIBOR + 1.25%, 1.75% (A), 04/24/2049 (H)

    GBP  438,215        $   582,029  

Bear Stearns Alt-A Trust
Series 2005-5, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.44%, 2.53% (A), 07/25/2035

    $  21,971        22,054  

BX Trust
Series 2017-APPL, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.88%, 2.95% (A), 07/15/2034 (B)

    2,622,683        2,622,678  

CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust
Series 2005-9, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.69% (A), 05/25/2035

    59,564        54,940  

COMM Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-HOME, Class A,
3.82% (A), 04/10/2033 (B)

    700,000        704,037  

DBUBS Mortgage Trust
Series 2017-BRBK, Class A,
3.45%, 10/10/2034 (B)

    1,600,000        1,588,811  

Dukinfield PLC
Series 1, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 1.00%, 1.64% (A), 08/15/2045 (H)

    GBP  243,290        322,747  

Eurosail PLC
Series 2006-4X, Class A3C,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.16%, 0.78% (A), 12/10/2044 (H)

    298,203        389,987  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
3.21% (A), 04/25/2028

    $  1,700,000        1,668,813  

Gemgarto PLC
Series 2015-1, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.95%, 1.58% (A), 02/16/2047 (H)

    GBP  8,290        10,945  

Independence Plaza Trust
Series 2018-INDP, Class A,
3.76%, 07/10/2035 (B) (E)

    $  900,000        901,794  

La Hipotecaria El Salvadorian Mortgage Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
3.36%, 01/15/2046 (B) (L)

    1,233,307        1,205,894  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust
Series 2003-B, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.77% (A), 04/25/2028

    574,861        553,859  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust
Series 2015-C25, Class A4,
3.37%, 10/15/2048

    1,600,000        1,574,423  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2013-C8, Class XA,
1.13% (A), 12/15/2048

    1,834,075        67,610  

MortgageIT Trust
Series 2005-2, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.61% (A), 05/25/2035

    125,377        125,697  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Southern Pacific Financing PLC
Series 2005-B, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.18%, 0.80% (A), 06/10/2043 (H)

    GBP  544,999        $   713,823  

Structured Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-4, Class 6A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.24%, 2.33% (A), 03/25/2035

    $  495,262        465,880  

Uropa Securities PLC

    

Series 2008-1, Class A,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.20%, 0.82% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    GBP  783,095        1,006,908  

Series 2008-1, Class B,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.75%, 1.37% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    150,578        187,375  

Series 2008-1, Class M1,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.35%, 0.97% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    180,532        227,250  

Series 2008-1, Class M2,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.55%, 1.17% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    141,673        179,002  

Worldwide Plaza Trust
Series 2017-WWP, Class A,
3.53%, 11/10/2036 (B)

    $  1,500,000        1,466,869  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $16,864,041)

 

     16,643,425  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.4%  
California - 0.1%  

Bay Area Toll Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series S1,
6.92%, 04/01/2040

    200,000        275,614  

Los Angeles Community College District, General Obligation Unlimited,
6.60%, 08/01/2042

    200,000        279,478  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited,
7.35%, 11/01/2039

    300,000        427,041  
    

 

 

 
       982,133  
    

 

 

 
Illinois - 0.1%  

City of Chicago, General Obligation Unlimited,
Series B,
7.05%, 01/01/2029

    500,000        542,650  
    

 

 

 
Maryland - 0.1%  

County of Baltimore, General Obligation Unlimited,
3.30%, 07/01/2046

    450,000        410,180  
    

 

 

 
Michigan - 0.1%  

Michigan Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.31%, 06/01/2034

    380,000        388,037  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.0% (K)  

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Revenue Bonds,
4.46%, 10/01/2062

    200,000        212,414  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
Utah - 0.0% (K)  

Utah State Board of Regents, Revenue Bonds,
Series 1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (A), 12/26/2031

    $   52,332        $   52,361  
    

 

 

 
West Virginia - 0.0% (K)  

Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.47%, 06/01/2047

    225,000        224,210  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $2,733,546)

 

     2,811,985  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 14.4%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

1.25%, 10/02/2019 (M)

    14,450,000        14,230,447  

2.38%, 01/13/2022 (M)

    10,800,000        10,658,239  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates
1-Month LIBOR + 0.67%, 2.67% (A), 02/25/2023

    954,235        956,928  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.26% (A), 01/15/2038

    1,681,463        1,679,783  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (A), 02/15/2041 - 09/15/2045

    1,270,270        1,277,686  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS
1.40% (A), 01/15/2038

    1,681,463        71,164  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Interest Only STRIPS
(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.89%,
3.82% (A), 09/15/2043

    1,783,315        299,914  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

3.50%, 06/01/2045

    386,732        386,070  

3.50%, TBA (D)

    50,800,000        50,514,787  

3.70%, 09/01/2034

    939,193        943,043  

4.50%, 04/01/2028 - 10/01/2041

    616,878        647,949  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.57%, 2.66% (A), 06/25/2041

    1,122,618        1,134,853  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (A), 05/25/2040

    940,838        952,206  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.94% (A), 11/25/2039

    2,956,635        3,030,245  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS
3.00%, 03/25/2028

    968,183        90,995  

Government National Mortgage Association
1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.72% (A), 05/20/2066 - 06/20/2066

    4,084,205        4,143,042  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $90,807,861)

 

     91,017,351  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 31.9%  
U.S. Treasury - 31.6%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.75%, 08/15/2047

    $   4,700,000        $   4,485,012  

2.88%, 11/15/2046 (M)

    1,598,000        1,564,604  

3.00%, 11/15/2045

    70,000        70,246  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (M)

    6,800,000        6,822,844  

3.13%, 05/15/2048 (M)

    2,000,000        2,055,547  

3.38%, 05/15/2044 (M)

    500,000        535,840  

4.25%, 05/15/2039 (M)

    5,100,000        6,152,074  

4.38%, 11/15/2039

    1,400,000        1,719,484  

4.50%, 08/15/2039 (M)

    32,800,000        40,898,781  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.25%, 04/30/2019 (M)

    3,400,000        3,370,117  

1.38%, 05/31/2021 (M) (N)

    740,000        714,129  

1.75%, 01/31/2023

    400,000        383,297  

1.88%, 03/31/2022 - 04/30/2022 (M)

    40,400,000        39,233,703  

1.88%, 07/31/2022 (M) (N)

    1,100,000        1,064,894  

2.00%, 12/31/2021 (M) (N)

    4,600,000        4,497,937  

2.25%, 02/15/2027 - 11/15/2027 (M)

      73,880,000        70,448,279  

2.38%, 05/15/2027 (M)

    5,600,000        5,392,844  

2.75%, 04/30/2023 - 05/31/2023 (M)

    4,500,000        4,505,133  

2.88%, 05/15/2028 (D) (M)

    5,700,000        5,711,355  
    

 

 

 
       199,626,120  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.3%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond
1.00%, 02/15/2046 (M)

    1,902,816        1,959,724  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $206,161,728)

 

     201,585,844  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.2%  
Greece - 0.2%  

Hellenic Republic Treasury Bill

    

1.08% (F), 10/05/2018

    EUR  300,000        349,479  

1.27% (F), 03/15/2019

    600,000        695,641  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $1,101,727)

 

     1,045,120  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.9%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.83% (F), 08/02/2018 (O) (P)

    $  143,000        142,764  

1.85% (F), 08/02/2018

    1,169,000        1,167,044  

1.86% (F), 08/02/2018

    190,000        189,681  

1.87% (F), 08/02/2018

    731,000        729,772  

1.92% (F), 09/27/2018 (P)

    469,000        466,817  

1.93% (F), 09/13/2018 (P)

    108,000        107,575  

1.96% (F), 10/04/2018 (O) (P)

    2,660,000        2,646,381  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $5,450,034)

 

     5,450,034  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  

SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.6%

 

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (F)

    3,809,813        3,809,813  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $3,809,813)

 

     3,809,813  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  

REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 47.5%

 

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (F), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $11,812,228 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $12,049,387.

    $  11,811,342        $  11,811,342  

HSBC Bank PLC, 2.07% (F), dated 06/27/2018, to be repurchased at $50,023,000 on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.13%, due 01/15/2019, and Cash with a value of $51,443,489

    50,000,000        50,000,000  

HSBC Bank PLC, 2.07% (F), dated 06/28/2018, to be repurchased at $110,044,275 on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 3.00% - 3.38%, due 01/15/2019 - 05/15/2047, and Cash with a total value of $113,174,537.

    110,000,000        110,000,000  

HSBC Bank PLC, 2.26% (F), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $15,502,919 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized a by U.S. Government Obligation, 2.88%, due 04/30/2025, and Cash with a value of $15,957,637.

    15,500,000        15,500,000  

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 2.10% (F), dated 07/02/2018, to be repurchased at $33,701,966 on 07/03/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.38%, due 05/15/2044, and with a value of $34,388,702.

    33,700,000        33,700,000  

RBC Capital Markets LLC, 2.22% (F), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $79,014,615 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.38%, due 02/28/2019, and with a value of $80,728,668.

    79,000,000        79,000,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $300,011,342)

 

     300,011,342  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options/Swaptions
(Cost $852,046,326)

 

     843,178,222  

Total Purchased Options/Swaptions - 1.4%
(Cost $7,638,383)

 

     8,936,948  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $859,684,709)

 

     852,115,170  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (34.8)%

 

     (220,078,969
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  632,036,201  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  

REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - (21.7)%

 

Bank of Nova Scotia, 1.91% (F), dated 04/13/2018, to be repurchased at $(7,054,525) on 07/12/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and Cash with a total value of $(7,029,145).

    $  (7,021,000      $  (7,021,000

Bank of Nova Scotia, 1.96% (F), dated 05/02/2018, to be repurchased at $(44,829,780) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 1.88% - 2.25%, due 03/31/2022 - 08/15/2027, and Cash with a total value of $(44,771,080).

    (44,662,000      (44,662,000

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., 2.10% (F), dated 06/27/2018, to be repurchased at $(5,944,851) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.75% - 3.13%, due 04/30/2023 - 05/15/2048, and with a total value of $(5,980,699).

    (5,940,000      (5,940,000

JPMorgan Securities LLC, 1.87% (F), dated 06/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(6,641,021) on 07/24/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligations, 3.00% , due 02/15/2048, and Cash with a total value of $(6,818,359).

    (6,630,000      (6,630,000

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 1.99% (F), dated 05/09/2018, to be repurchased at $(5,422,521) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.38%, due 05/15/2027, and with a value of $(5,410,705).

    (5,404,000      (5,404,000

RBS Securities, Inc., 1.93% (F), dated 04/18/2018, to be repurchased at $(4,544,564) on 07/18/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and Cash with a total value of $(4,454,272).

    (4,522,500      (4,522,500

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.06% (F), dated 05/21/2018, to be repurchased at $(42,565,397) on 07/23/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25%, due 02/15/2027, and Cash with a total value of $(42,421,947).

    (42,412,500      (42,412,500

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.07% (F), dated 05/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(6,360,093) on 07/23/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and Cash with a total value of $(6,438,124).

    (6,337,500      (6,337,500
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.16% (F), dated 06/13/2018, to be repurchased at $(3,728,665) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and Cash with a total value of $(3,712,857).

    $   (3,723,750      $   (3,723,750

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.00% (F), dated 05/18/2018, to be repurchased at $(972,641) on 07/06/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and with a value of $(1,011,353).

    (970,000      (970,000

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.03% (F), dated 05/11/2018, to be repurchased at $(5,565,328) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and with a value of $(5,688,861).

    (5,546,250      (5,546,250
     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.05% (F), dated 05/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,587,076) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and with a value of $(1,643,449).

    $   (1,582,750      $       (1,582,750

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.35% (F), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $(2,404,441) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and with a value of $(2,401,963).

    (2,403,500      (2,403,500
    

 

 

 

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $137,155,750)

 

     $  (137,155,750
    

 

 

 
 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD       121.00       07/27/2018       USD       13,220,900       110     $        25,952     $ 20,625  

Put - S&P 500®

    USD       2,325.00       06/21/2019       USD       305,272,951       1,123       6,070,419       7,097,360  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

          $   6,096,371     $   7,117,985  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate Index     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (E)

    CSS       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       1.85     11/30/2018       USD       41,200,000     $ 59,452     $ 3,052  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (E)

    CITI       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.00       12/19/2018       USD       41,200,000       91,274       3,537  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (E)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.15       01/31/2019       USD       46,000,000       48,300       11,507  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (E)

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       3.04       06/22/2020       USD       145,300,000       525,986       563,986  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (E)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Pay       2.30       10/21/2019       USD       8,600,000       817,000       1,236,881  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                $   1,542,012     $   1,818,963  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD       120.00       07/27/2018       USD       13,220,900       110     $   (61,705   $   (60,156

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional Amount/
Number of Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    JPM       Pay       0.73     07/18/2018       USD       2,100,000     $ (1,942   $ (857

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    BNP       Pay       0.75       07/18/2018       USD       1,600,000       (1,520     (534

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    CITI       Pay       0.85       07/18/2018       USD       1,200,000       (1,236     (254
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   (4,698   $   (1,645
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate
Index
    Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional Amount/
Number of Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - 1-Year

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       3.02     06/21/2021       USD       145,300,000     $ (682,910   $ (747,904

Call - 10-Year

    CITI       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.19       12/19/2018       USD       8,700,000       (91,706     (8,942

Call - 10-Year

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.21       01/31/2019       USD       9,200,000       (48,300     (15,299

Put - 5-Year

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Pay       2.00       10/21/2019       USD       43,000,000       (817,000     (1,937,795
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                $ (1,639,916   $ (2,709,940
               

 

 

   

 

 

 
                                               Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS AND SWAPTIONS

 

  $   (1,706,319   $   (2,771,741

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Interest Rate Swap Agreements  
Floating Rate Index    Pay/Receive
Fixed Rate
     Fixed
Rate
    Payment
Frequency
     Maturity
Date
     Notional
Amount
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

3-Month USD-LIBOR

     Pay        1.50    
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
     06/21/2027        USD       15,400,000     $ 1,778,764     $ 1,166,671     $ 612,093  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

     Pay        1.75      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
     12/21/2026        USD       500,000       45,099       24,012       21,087  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

     Receive        2.25      
Quarterly/
Semi-Annually

 
     12/16/2022        USD       700,000       (18,956     3,218       (22,174

3-Month USD-LIBOR

     Pay        2.25      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
     06/20/2028        USD       71,200,000       4,211,169       4,380,296       (169,127

3-Month USD-LIBOR

     Pay        2.50      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
     12/20/2027        USD       2,100,000       79,491       23,456       56,035  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

     Pay        2.75      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
     12/20/2047        USD       3,700,000       172,095       (70,181     242,276  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

     Receive        2.04      
Semi-Annually/
Annually
 
 
     02/03/2037        EUR       5,100,000       30,245       (73,510     103,755  

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

     Pay        1.50       Semi-Annually        09/19/2028        GBP       8,700,000       54,338       194,572       (140,234

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

     Pay        2.04       Semi-Annually        02/01/2037        GBP       4,600,000       (118,787     (82,153     (36,634

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

     Pay        0.75       Semi-Annually        03/20/2038        JPY       480,000,000       (86,197     65,827         (152,024
                 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                  $   6,147,261     $   5,632,208     $ 515,053  
                 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS:  
Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (Q)  
Reference Obligation    Counterparty      Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
     Maturity
Date
     Notional
Amount (P)
     Value (Q)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America CMBS Basket Index - Series AAA8

     GSI        0.50     Monthly        10/17/2057        USD        3,200,000      $ 9,995     $ (139,668   $ 149,663  

North America CMBS Basket Index - Series AAA9

     GSI        0.50       Monthly        09/17/2058        USD        1,700,000        (638     (102,462     101,824  
                   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total                     $   9,357     $   (242,130   $   251,487  
                   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Total Return Swap Agreements (T)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty     Pay/Receive     Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Shares or Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    MLI       Receive       Quarterly       08/22/2018       USD       582,693       97     $ (8,309   $ (276   $ (8,033

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    CITI       Receive       Quarterly       05/23/2019       USD         64,793,936       10,578       (2,199,654           (2,199,654
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

          $   (2,207,963   $   (276   $   (2,207,687
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

      Value  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Assets)

   $   9,995  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Liabilities)

   $   (2,208,601

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description   Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

90-Day Eurodollar

    Long       304       09/17/2018     $ 74,123,629     $ 74,134,200     $ 10,571     $  

90-Day Eurodollar

    Long       223       12/17/2018       54,459,673       54,278,200             (181,473

90-Day Eurodollar

    Long       418       03/18/2019       102,008,210       101,615,800             (392,410

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (330     06/17/2019       (80,636,429     (80,144,625     491,804        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (195     09/16/2019       (47,626,119     (47,326,500     299,619        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (741     12/16/2019         (180,749,770       (179,757,337     992,433        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (418     03/16/2020       (101,803,383     (101,385,900     417,483        

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       29       09/28/2018       3,288,817       3,294,898       6,081        

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Short       (114     09/19/2018       (13,692,512     (13,701,375           (8,863

Euro OAT Index

    Short       (37     09/06/2018       (6,601,840     (6,677,457           (75,617

German Euro Bund Index

    Short       (9     09/06/2018       (1,701,217     (1,708,433           (7,216

Russell 2000® Mini Index

    Long       382       09/21/2018       32,049,086       31,467,250             (581,836

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long       2,087       09/21/2018       290,080,867       283,998,960             (6,081,907

U.S. Treasury Bond

    Long       74       09/19/2018       10,897,335       11,079,500       182,165        
           

 

 

   

 

 

 
Total             $   2,400,156     $   (7,329,322
           

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS:  
Counterparty      Settlement
Date
       Currency
Purchased
       Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BNP

       07/03/2018        USD      69,432        EUR      60,000      $   —      $   (651

BOA

       08/24/2018        USD      1,601,000        RUB      99,342,050        28,526         

CITI

       07/02/2018        USD      148,871        DKK      895,000        8,567         

CITI

       07/10/2018        RUB      288,420,615        USD      4,560,817        26,910         

CITI

       08/15/2018        JPY      336,469,613        USD      3,087,727               (39,086

CITI

       03/15/2019        USD      763,647        EUR      600,000        48,194         

CSS

       10/05/2018        USD      123,963        EUR      100,000        6,321         

CSS

       10/05/2018        USD      249,499        EUR      200,000        14,215         

GSB

       07/03/2018        USD      1,044,371        EUR      894,000        140         

GSB

       07/03/2018        USD      3,995,568        GBP      2,996,000        41,083         

GSB

       08/08/2018        ZAR      14,700,000        USD      1,064,284        1,955         

GSB

       08/08/2018        USD      625,859        ZAR      8,682,000               (3,875

GSB

       08/24/2018        USD      573,000        RUB      35,904,180        4,677         

HSBC

       07/10/2018        USD      4,575,926        RUB      288,420,615               (11,802

HSBC

       08/24/2018        USD      1,499,514        RUB      93,722,300        15,994         

HSBC

       08/24/2018        RUB      288,420,615        USD      4,554,465        10,911         

HSBC

       10/01/2018        USD      140,724        DKK      895,000               (597

JPM

       07/03/2018        USD      303,244        CAD      393,000        4,287         

JPM

       07/03/2018        GBP      269,000        USD      359,023               (3,964

JPM

       08/08/2018        USD      477,811        ZAR      6,097,729        35,522         

JPM

       08/24/2018        USD      994,000        RUB      62,244,280        8,743         

JPM

       10/01/2018        USD      514,181        DKK      3,490,000               (36,890

JPM

       10/01/2018        DKK      56,000        USD      8,685        158         
                       

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total                   $   256,203      $   (96,865
                       

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (U)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 24,547,728     $     $ 24,547,728  

Certificate of Deposit

          1,500,000             1,500,000  

Corporate Debt Securities

          173,282,316             173,282,316  

Foreign Government Obligations

          21,473,264             21,473,264  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          16,643,425             16,643,425  

Municipal Government Obligations

          2,811,985             2,811,985  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          91,017,351             91,017,351  

U.S. Government Obligations

          201,585,844             201,585,844  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

          1,045,120             1,045,120  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          5,450,034             5,450,034  

Securities Lending Collateral

    3,809,813                   3,809,813  

Repurchase Agreements

          300,011,342             300,011,342  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    7,117,985                   7,117,985  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

          1,818,963             1,818,963  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 10,927,798     $ 841,187,372     $     $ 852,115,170  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

  $     $ 6,371,201     $     $ 6,371,201  

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          9,995             9,995  

Futures Contracts (V)

    2,400,156                   2,400,156  

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (V)

          256,203             256,203  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 2,400,156     $ 6,637,399     $     $ 9,037,555  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION (continued):

 

Valuation Inputs (continued) (U)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $     $ (137,155,750   $     $ (137,155,750

Exchange-Traded Options Written

    (60,156                 (60,156

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swaptions Written

          (1,645           (1,645

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Written

          (2,709,940           (2,709,940

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          (223,940           (223,940

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          (638           (638

Over-the-Counter Total Return Swap Agreements

          (2,207,963           (2,207,963

Futures Contracts (V)

    (7,329,322                 (7,329,322

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (V)

          (96,865           (96,865
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (7,389,478   $ (142,396,741   $     $ (149,786,219
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $95,749,717, representing 15.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.01% or (0.01)%.
(D)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(E)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $6,213,681 or 1.0% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(F)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(G)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(H)    Securities are exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. At June 30, 2018, the total value of Regulation S securities is $10,692,928, representing 1.7% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(I)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $3,731,708. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(J)    Step bond. Coupon rate changes in increments to maturity. The rate disclosed is as of June 30, 2018; the maturity date disclosed is the ultimate maturity date.
(K)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(L)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the value of the security is $1,205,894, representing 0.2% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(M)    Securities are subject to sale-buyback transactions.
(N)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral for centrally cleared swap agreements. The total value of such securities is $2,079,212.
(O)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The total value of such securities is $1,941,914.
(P)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral for open over-the-counter swaptions, swap agreements and forward foreign currency contracts. The total value of such securities is $3,507,994.
(Q)    If the Portfolio is a seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Portfolio will either (a) pay to the buyer of protection an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation or (b) pay a net settlement amount in the form of cash or securities equal to the notional amount of the swap agreement less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation.
(R)    The maximum potential amount the Portfolio could be required to pay as a seller of credit protection or receive as a buyer of credit protection if a credit event occurs as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(S)    The quoted market prices and resulting values for credit default swap agreements on asset-backed securities and credit indices serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of an expected liability (or profit) for the credit derivative had the notional amount of the swap agreement been closed/sold as of the period ended. Increasing market values, in absolute terms when compared to the notional amount of the swap agreement, represent a deterioration of the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement.
(T)    At the termination date, a net cash flow is exchanged where the total return is equivalent to the return of the reference entity less a financing rate, if any. As a receiver, the Portfolio would receive payments based on any positive total return and would owe payments in the event of a negative total return. As the payer, the Portfolio would owe payments on any net positive total return and would receive payment in the event of a negative total return.
(U)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(V)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar
DKK    Danish Krone
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
JPY    Japanese Yen
RUB    Russian Ruble
USD    United States Dollar
ZAR    South African Rand

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

BNP    BNP Paribas
BOA    Bank of America, N.A.
CITI    Citibank N.A.
CSS    Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC
GSB    Goldman Sachs Bank
GSI    Goldman Sachs International
HSBC    HSBC Bank USA
JPM    JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
MLI    Merrill Lynch International
MSC    Morgan Stanley & Co.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CMBS    Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities
EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
ETF    Exchange-Traded Fund
EURIBOR    Euro Interbank Offer Rate
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
OAT    Obligations Assimilables du Tresor (Treasury Obligations)
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities
TBA    To Be Announced

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $559,673,367)
(including securities loaned of $3,731,708)

  $ 552,103,828  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $300,011,342)

    300,011,342  

Cash

    1,445  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    469,000  

Futures contracts

    11,680,000  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $462,099)

    450,009  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    1,845  

Investments sold

    43,638  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments sold

    28,861,633  

Interest

    3,824,851  

Tax reclaims

    723  

Net income from securities lending

    261  

Variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swap agreements

    255,576  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    464,261  

Prepaid expenses

    2,180  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    9,995  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    256,203  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    898,436,790  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    156,509  

Sale-buyback financing transactions

    5,708,791  

Investments purchased

    27,991,209  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    85,501,115  

Investment management fees

    407,826  

Distribution and service fees

    125,541  

Transfer agent costs

    1,451  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,408  

Audit and tax fees

    16,830  

Custody fees

    27,262  

Legal fees

    8,152  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    55,939  

Interest

    346,231  

Deferred income for sale-buyback financing transactions

    387  

Other

    8,168  

Collateral for securities on loan

    3,809,813  

Reverse repurchase agreements, at value (cost $137,155,750)

    137,155,750  

Written options and swaptions, at value (premium received $1,706,319)

    2,771,741  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    2,208,601  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    96,865  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    266,400,589  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   632,036,201  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 511,371  

Additional paid-in capital

    574,213,639  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    23,064,853  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    49,098,528  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (7,569,539

Written options and swaptions

    (1,065,422

Swap agreements

    (1,441,147

Futures contracts

    (4,929,166

Forward foreign currency contracts

    159,338  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (6,254
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 632,036,201  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 6,422,025  

Service Class

    625,614,176  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    512,407  

Service Class

    50,624,666  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.53  

Service Class

    12.36  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 8,547,342  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    3,493  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    13  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    8,550,848  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    2,583,432  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    795,383  

Transfer agent costs

    4,732  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    10,241  

Audit and tax fees

    16,524  

Custody fees

    100,646  

Legal fees

    20,151  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    29,886  

Interest

    168,631  

Other

    9,347  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    3,738,973  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    4,811,875  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    (5,430,292

Written options and swaptions

    87,375  

Swap agreements

    4,612,394  

Futures contracts

    13,145,733  

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (1,603,686

Foreign currency transactions

    (105,899

TBA short commitments

    (2,344
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    10,703,281  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

      (13,128,408

Written options and swaptions

    (756,497

Swap agreements

    (2,220,926

Futures contracts

    (8,228,995

Forward foreign currency contracts

    1,165,823  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (77,843
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (23,246,846
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (12,543,565
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (7,731,690
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 4,811,875     $ 7,121,962  

Net realized gain (loss)

    10,703,281       60,945,407  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (23,246,846     8,657,820  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (7,731,690     76,725,189  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (34,865

Service Class

          (1,965,420
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (2,000,285
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (318,565

Service Class

          (32,219,227
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (32,537,792
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (34,538,077
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    127,842       358,228  

Service Class

    2,823,114       13,591,174  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,950,956       13,949,402  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          353,430  

Service Class

          34,184,647  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          34,538,077  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (408,209     (903,672

Service Class

      (38,687,240       (70,008,778
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (39,095,449     (70,912,450
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (36,144,493     (22,424,971
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (43,876,183     19,762,141  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    675,912,384       656,150,243  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   632,036,201     $   675,912,384  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 23,064,853     $ 18,252,978  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    10,146       28,946  

Service Class

    228,130       1,129,505  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    238,276       1,158,451  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          29,477  

Service Class

          2,887,217  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,916,694  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (32,360     (73,064

Service Class

    (3,109,110     (5,727,199
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,141,470     (5,800,263
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (22,214     (14,641

Service Class

    (2,880,980     (1,710,477
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,903,194     (1,725,118
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Cash flows provided by (used for) operating activities:

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (7,731,690

Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:

 

Purchases of long-term investments

    (323,143,491

Proceeds from long-term investments

    334,058,223  

Purchases to cover securities sold short

    (24,583,688

Proceeds from securities sold short

    24,581,344  

Net purchases/proceeds of short-term investments

    134,594,732  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    23,246,846  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (10,703,281

Net amortization (accretion) of discount and premium

    45,405  

(Increase) decrease in receivables for investments sold

    3,684,491  

(Increase) decrease in receivables for interest

    564,229  

(Increase) decrease in receivables for net income from securities lending

    362  

(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses

    (2,180

Increase (decrease) in payables for investments purchased

    (95,092,801

Increase (decrease) in dividends and interest payable

    57,410  

Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities

    (85,254

Increase (decrease) in collateral for securities on loan

    1,095,938  

Net cash provided by (used for) swap agreement transactions

    5,377,713  

Net cash provided by (used for) written options and swaptions transactions

    810,112  

Net cash provided by (used for) in futures contracts transactions

    3,720,870  

Net cash provided by (used for) forward foreign currency contracts

    (1,787,428
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

    68,707,862  
 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

Increase (decrease) in payable to custodian for cash overdraft

    (778,679

Increase (decrease) in payable reverse repurchase agreements

    (9,816,125

Proceeds from shares sold, net of receivable for shares sold

    2,949,609  

Payment of shares redeemed, net of payable for shares redeemed

    (39,266,723

Proceeds from Sale-buyback financing transactions

      649,117,500  

Payments from Sale-buyback financing transactions

      (671,899,100
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    (69,693,518
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and foreign currencies

    (985,656
 

 

 

 

Cash and foreign currencies, at beginning of period (A) (B)

  $ 13,586,110  
 

 

 

 

Cash and foreign currencies, at end of period (B)

  $ 12,600,454  
 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

 

Dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short paid

  $ 111,221  

 

(A)    Beginning balance is reflective of Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Restricted Cash, a consensus of the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force.
(B)    For the period ended June 30, 2018, the beginning and ending cash balances consist of the following:

 

    Beginning of Period        End of Period  

Assets:

      

Cash

  $        $ 1,445  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

      

Reverse repurchase agreements

    270,000           

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    858,000          469,000  

Futures contracts

    12,260,000          11,680,000  

Foreign currency, at value

    578,110          450,009  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total assets

    13,966,110          12,600,454  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Liabilities:

      

Cash collateral received at broker:

      

OTC derivatives

    380,000           
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    380,000           
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Net cash per statement of assets and liabilities

  $ 13,586,110        $ 12,600,454  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total cash and foreign currencies per statement of cash flows

  $   13,586,110        $   12,600,454  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.67     $ 11.91     $ 11.33     $ 12.00     $ 11.59     $ 10.40  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.11       0.16       0.10 (B)       0.04       0.02       0.01  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.25     1.28       0.54       (0.31     0.90       1.25  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.14     1.44       0.64       (0.27     0.92       1.26  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.07     (0.06           (0.13     (0.07

Net realized gains

          (0.61           (0.40     (0.38      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.68     (0.06     (0.40     (0.51     (0.07
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $   12.53     $   12.67     $   11.91     $   11.33     $   12.00     $   11.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (1.10 )%(D)      12.42     5.65     (2.27 )%      8.05     12.16
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 6,422     $ 6,772     $ 6,540     $ 6,714     $ 7,308     $ 7,332  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.92 %(E)      0.93     0.87     0.86     0.86     0.90

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.92 %(E)      0.93     0.86 %(B)      0.86     0.86     0.91

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.75 %(E)      1.31     0.84 %(B)      0.32     0.20     0.10

Portfolio turnover rate

    19 %(D)(F)      50 %(F)      59 %(F)      70     25     54 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.
(G)    Decrease in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.51     $ 11.76     $ 11.20     $ 11.90     $ 11.51     $ 10.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.09       0.13       0.07 (B)       0.01       (0.01     (0.02

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.24     1.27       0.52       (0.31     0.90       1.24  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.15     1.40       0.59       (0.30     0.89       1.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.04     (0.03           (0.12     (0.06

Net realized gains

          (0.61           (0.40     (0.38      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.65     (0.03     (0.40     (0.50     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.36     $ 12.51     $ 11.76     $ 11.20     $ 11.90     $ 11.51  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (1.20 )%(D)      12.04     5.38     (2.55 )%      7.83     11.85
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   625,614     $   669,140     $   649,610     $   607,082     $   566,312     $   308,591  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.17 %(E)      1.18     1.12     1.11     1.11     1.15

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.17 %(E)      1.18     1.11 %(B)      1.11     1.11     1.16

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.49 %(E)      1.06     0.59 %(B)      0.07     (0.05 )%      (0.16 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    19 %(F)      50 %(F)      59 %(F)      70     25     54 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.
(G)    Decrease in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica PIMCO Tactical—Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Statement of cash flows: GAAP requires entities providing financial statements that report both a financial position and results of operations to also provide a Statement of Cash Flows for each period for which results of operations are provided, but exempts investment companies meeting certain conditions. These conditions may include the enterprise had little or no debt, based on the average debt outstanding during the period, or little or no illiquid investments, in relation to average total assets. Portfolios with certain degrees of borrowing activity, typically through the use of sale-buyback financing transactions, line of credit borrowing, short sale transactions, or illiquid investments have been determined to be at a level requiring a Statement of Cash Flows. A Statement of Cash Flows has been prepared using the indirect method which requires net change in net assets resulting from operations to be adjusted to reconcile to net cash flows from operating activities.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Commercial paper: Commercial paper is valued using amortized cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Reverse repurchase agreements: The Portfolio may enter into reverse repurchase agreements in which the Portfolio sells portfolio securities and agrees to repurchase them from the buyer at a specified date and price. The Portfolio may utilize reverse repurchase

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

agreements when it is anticipated that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the proceeds of the transaction is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to be a form of borrowing. Pursuant to the terms of the reverse repurchase agreements, the Portfolio’s custodian must segregate assets with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the repurchase price. In periods of increased demand for the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leverage risk and also the risk that the market value of the securities that the Portfolio are obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio is subject to the risk that the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio. In the event of a default by the counterparty, there may be delays, costs and risks of loss involved in the Portfolio exercising its rights under the agreement, or those rights may be limited by other contractual agreements.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily

Borrowing

 

Number of Days

Outstanding

 

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

$  128,583,869   181   1.72%

Open reverse repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments.

Sale-buyback: The Portfolio may enter into sale-buyback financing transactions. The Portfolio accounts for sale-buyback financing transactions as borrowing transactions and realize gains and losses on these transactions at the end of the roll period. Sale-buyback financing transactions involve sales by the Portfolio of securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase the same or substantially similar securities at an agreed upon price and date.

The Portfolio forgoes principal and interest paid during the roll period on the securities sold in a sale-buyback financing transaction. The Portfolio is compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the price for the future purchase (often referred to as the “price drop”), as well as by any interest earned on the proceeds of the securities sold. Sale-buyback financing transactions may be renewed with a new sale and a repurchase price and a cash settlement made at each renewal without physical delivery of the securities subject to the contract. Sale-buyback financing transactions expose the Portfolio to risks such as, the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio, the market value of the securities the Portfolio is obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio’s obligations under a sale-buyback typically would be offset by liquid assets equal in value to the amount of the Portfolio’s forward commitment to repurchase the subject security. Sale-buyback financing transactions accounted for as borrowing transactions are excluded from the Portfolio’s portfolio turnover rates. The Portfolio recognizes price drop fee income on a straight line basis over the period of the roll. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio earned price drop fee income of $124,930. The price drop fee income is included in Interest income within the Statement of Operations.

The outstanding payable for securities to be repurchased, if any, is included in Payable for sale-buyback financing transactions within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The interest expense is included within Interest income on the Statement of Operations. In periods of increased demand of the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio, and is reflected in Interest income on the Statement of Operations.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily

Borrowing

 

Number of Days

Outstanding

 

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

$  20,687,772   175   1.62%

Open sale-buyback financing transactions at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Corporate Debt Securities

  $ 3,239,169     $     $     $     $ 3,239,169  

Foreign Government Obligations

    570,644                         570,644  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 3,809,813     $     $     $     $ 3,809,813  

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $   138,828,953     $     $     $   138,828,953  

Cash

    (1,673,203                       (1,673,203

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $ (1,673,203   $ 138,828,953     $     $     $ 137,155,750  

Sale Buy-back Transactions

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $ 5,708,791     $     $     $ 5,708,791  

Total Borrowings

  $   2,136,610     $ 144,537,744     $     $     $   146,674,354  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on exchange-traded funds and/or securities: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on ETFs and/or securities. Purchasing or writing options on ETFs and/or securities gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell a specified ETF and/or security as an underlying instrument for the option contract.

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Options on futures: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on futures. Purchasing or writing options on futures gives the Portfolio the right, but not obligation to buy or sell a position on a futures contract at the specified option exercise price at any time during the period of the option.

Interest rate-capped options: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate-capped options. Purchasing or writing interest rate-capped options gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell an option which applies a cap to protect the Portfolio from floating rate risk above a certain rate on a given notional exposure. A floor can be used to give downside protection to investments in interest rate-linked products.

Interest rate swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. The writer of the swaption becomes the counterparty to the swap if the buyer exercises. The interest rate swaption agreement will specify whether the buyer of the swaption will be a fixed-rate receiver or a fixed-rate payer upon exercise.

Straddle swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write straddle swaption agreements which is an investment strategy that consists of two swaptions, each with a different underlying swap, wherein the holder buys both a payer and receiver option on the same floating rate. If the floating rate falls, the holder receives the fixed rate, and if the floating rate rises, the holder pays the fixed rate.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Written options: Writing call options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. Writing put options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. When the Portfolio writes a covered call or put option, the premium received is recorded as a liability within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. Premiums received from written options which expire unexercised are treated as realized gains. Premiums received from writing options which are exercised or closed are added to the proceeds or offset against amounts paid on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss. In writing an option, the Portfolio bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security or currency underlying the written option. Exercise of an option written by the Portfolio could result in the Portfolio selling or buying a security or currency at a price different from the current market value.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    30


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Swap agreements: Swap agreements are bilaterally negotiated agreements between the Portfolio and a counterparty to exchange or swap investments, cash flows, assets, foreign currencies, or market-linked returns at specified, future intervals. Swap agreements can be executed in a bilateral privately negotiated arrangement with a dealer in an OTC transaction or executed on a regular market. Certain swaps regardless of the venue of execution are required to be cleared through a clearinghouse (“centrally cleared swap agreements”). Centrally cleared swap agreements listed or traded on a multilateral platform, are valued at the daily settlement price determined by the corresponding exchange. For centrally cleared credit default swap agreements the clearing exchange requires all members to provide applicable levels across complete term levels. Centrally cleared interest rate swap agreements are valued using a pricing model that references the underlying rates including but not limited to the overnight index swap rate and London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) forward rate to calculate the daily settlement price. The Portfolio may enter into credit default, cross-currency, interest rate, total return, and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit, currency, interest rate, and commodity risks. In connection with these agreements, securities or cash may be identified as collateral or margin in accordance with the terms of the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Swap agreements are marked-to-market daily based upon values from third party vendors, which may include a registered exchange, or quotations from market makers to the extent available and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

For OTC swap agreements, payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are reflected as such within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represent payments made or received upon entering into the swap agreements to compensate for differences between the stated terms of the swap agreement and prevailing market conditions (credit spreads, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and other relevant factors). These upfront payments are recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations upon termination or maturity of the swap. A liquidation payment received or made at the termination of the swap is recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations. Net periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are included as part of Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations.

Credit default swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio enters into credit default swap agreements to manage its exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market to reduce its risk exposure to defaults of corporate and sovereign issuers, or to create exposure to corporate or sovereign issuers to which it is not otherwise exposed. Credit default swap agreements involve the exchange of a fixed rate premium for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security in the event of a defined credit event, such as payment default or bankruptcy (buy protection).

Under a credit default swap agreement, one party acts as a guarantor by receiving the fixed periodic payment in exchange for the commitment to purchase the underlying security at par if the defined credit event occurs (sell protection). The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the notional amount of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

The Portfolio sells credit default swap agreements, which exposes it to risk of loss from credit risk related events specified in the contracts. Although contract-specific, credit events are generally defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, restructuring, obligation acceleration, obligation default, or repudiation/moratorium. If a defined credit event had occurred during the period, the swap agreements’ credit-risk-related contingent features would have been triggered, and the Portfolio would have been required to pay the notional amounts for the credit default swap agreements with a sell protection less the value of the contracts’ related reference obligations.

Interest rate swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Because the Portfolio holds fixed rate bonds, the value of these bonds may decrease if interest rates rise. To help hedge against this risk, the Portfolio enters into interest rate swap agreements. Under an interest rate swap agreement, two parties will exchange cash flows based on a notional principal amount. A Portfolio with interest rate agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate, on a notional principal amount. The risks of interest rate swap agreements include changes in market conditions which will affect the value of the contract or the cash flows, and the possible inability of the counterparty to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk is the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    31


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from/paid to the counterparties over the contracts’ remaining lives, to the extent that amount is positive. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

Total return swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to commodity risk, equity risk, and other risks related to the underlying investments of the swap agreement in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The value of the commodity-linked investments held by a Portfolio can be affected by a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, overall market movements and other factors affecting the value of particular industries or commodities, such as weather, disease, embargoes, acts of war or terrorism, or political and regulatory developments. Commodity-linked derivatives are available from a relatively small number of issuers, subjecting the Portfolio’s investments in commodity-linked derivatives to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the commodity-linked derivative will not fulfill its contractual obligations. Total return swap agreements on commodities involve commitments whereby cash flows are exchanged based on the price of a commodity in exchange for either a fixed or floating price or rate. One party would receive payments based on the market value of the commodity involved and pay a fixed amount. Total return swap agreements on indices involve commitments to pay interest in exchange for a market-linked return. One counterparty pays out the total return of a specific reference entity, which may be an equity, index, or bond, and in return receives a regular stream of payments.

Open centrally cleared swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Centrally cleared swap agreements are marked-to-market daily and an appropriate payable or receivable for the variation margin is recorded, if applicable, and is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on centrally cleared swap agreements within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Open OTC swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. The value, as applicable, is shown in OTC swap agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    32


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $ 1,839,588     $     $ 7,097,360     $     $     $ 8,936,948  

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (B) (C)

    6,371,201                               6,371,201  

OTC swap agreements, at value

                      9,995             9,995  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (B) (D)

    2,400,156                               2,400,156  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          256,203                         256,203  

Total

  $   10,610,945     $   256,203     $   7,097,360     $   9,995     $     $   17,974,503  
                                                 

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Written options and swaptions, at value (A) (B)

  $ (2,770,096   $     $     $ (1,645   $     $ (2,771,741

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (B) (C)

    (223,940                             (223,940

OTC swap agreements, at value

                (2,207,963     (638           (2,208,601

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (B) (D)

    (665,579           (6,663,743                 (7,329,322

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          (96,865                       (96,865

Total

  $   (3,659,615   $   (96,865   $   (8,871,706   $   (2,283   $     $   (12,630,469
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(C)   Included within Value of centrally cleared swap agreements as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(D)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $ 81,024     $     $ (2,909,696   $     $     $ (2,828,672

Written options and swaptions

    68,859       18,516                         87,375  

Swap agreements

    3,002,696             1,585,283       24,415             4,612,394  

Futures contracts

    (606,508             13,752,241                   13,145,733  

Forward foreign currency contracts

          (1,603,686                       (1,603,686

Total

  $   2,546,071     $   (1,585,170   $ 12,427,828     $   24,415     $   —     $   13,413,144  
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    33


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (B)

  $ 238,826     $     $ 938,576     $     $     $ 1,177,402  

Written options and swaptions

    (767,064     7,514             3,053             (756,497

Swap agreements

    987,525             (3,195,453     (12,998           (2,220,926

Futures contracts

    1,493,307             (9,722,302                 (8,228,995

Forward foreign currency contracts

          1,165,823                         1,165,823  

Total

  $   1,952,594     $   1,173,337     $   (11,979,179   $   (9,945   $   —     $   (8,863,193
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options
and Swaptions
at value
  Written Options and
Swaptions at value
  Swap
Agreements
at Notional
Amount
  Futures Contracts at
Notional Amount
  Forward Foreign
Currency Contracts at
Contract Amount
Calls   Puts   Calls   Puts        Long   Short   Purchased   Sold
$  144,414   $  6,414,444   $  (220,680)   $  (1,793,523)   $  190,707,649   204,270,921   (358,057,143)   $  20,515,628   $  25,428,548

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    34


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities(A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
                Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
       
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Net Amount            Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
    Net Amount  
    Assets    

 

    Liabilities  

Bank of America, N.A.

  $ 28,526     $     $   —     $ 28,526       $     $     $     $  

BNP Paribas

                              1,185                   1,185  

Citibank N.A.

    87,208       (87,208                   2,247,936       (87,208     (2,160,728      

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

    23,588                   23,588                            

Goldman Sachs Bank

    1,296,243       (1,296,243                   1,956,969       (1,296,243     (660,726      

Goldman Sachs International

    9,995       (638           9,357         638       (638            

HSBC Bank USA

    26,905       (12,399           14,506         12,399       (12,399            

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

    48,710       (41,711           6,999         41,711       (41,711            

Merrill Lynch International

                              8,309                   8,309  

Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc.

    563,986       (563,986                   747,904       (563,986           183,918  

Other Derivatives (C)

    15,889,342                   15,889,342         7,613,249                   7,613,249  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   17,974,503     $   (2,002,185   $     $   15,972,318       $   12,630,300     $   (2,002,185   $   (2,821,454   $   7,806,661  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.
(C)   Other Derivatives, which includes future contracts, exchange-traded options and exchange-traded swap agreements, are not subject to a master netting arrangement or another similar arrangement. The amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    35


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.81

Over $250 million up to $750 million

     0.80  

Over $750 million up to $1.5 billion

     0.79  

Over $1.5 billion

     0.76  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.95      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.20        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    36


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  25,172,018   $  71,423,549     $  69,804,992   $  71,850,383

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  859,684,709   $  7,895,380   $  (22,741,316)   $  (14,845,936)

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    37


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica PIMCO Tactical — Balanced VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    38


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on September 17, 2012 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    39


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Balanced VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    40


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   990.20     $   4.74     $   1,020.00     $   4.81       0.96

Service Class

    1,000.00       989.20       5.97       1,018.80       6.06       1.21  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     8.13  

Duration †

     4.62  
Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Government Obligations

     39.7

Corporate Debt Securities

     33.9  

Repurchase Agreements

     30.1  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     16.1  

Asset-Backed Securities

     4.6  

Foreign Government Obligations

     4.2  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     3.1  

Securities Lending Collateral

     1.6  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

     0.9  

Municipal Government Obligations

     0.7  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

     0.4  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     0.3  

Certificates of Deposit

     0.3  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

     0.2  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (36.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 4.6%  

Avery Point IV CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 04/25/2026 (B)

    $  400,000        $  400,049  

Babson CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-IIA, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 10/17/2026 (B)

    300,000        300,031  

Bear Stearns Asset-Backed Securities Trust
Series 2005-SD1, Class 2M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.20%, 3.29% (A), 01/25/2045

    346,384        344,226  

BlueMountain CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 3.25% (A), 10/29/2025 (B)

    261,149        261,145  

California Republic Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A1,
2.45%, 07/15/2019

    400,000        400,014  

Carlyle Global Market Strategies CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-5A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.14%, 3.49% (A), 10/16/2025 (B)

    400,000        400,003  

Colony Starwood Homes Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (A), 07/17/2033 (B)

    581,851        584,498  

Crown Point CLO, Ltd.
Series 2018-5A, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.94%, 0.00% (A), 07/17/2028 (B) (C) (D)

    600,000        600,000  

CVP Cascade CLO-1, Ltd.
Series 2013-CLO1, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 01/16/2026 (B)

    1,135,618        1,135,728  

Denali Capital CLO XI, Ltd.
Series 2015-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.51% (A), 04/20/2027 (B)

    300,000        300,041  

Dryden XXV Senior Loan Fund
Series 2012-25A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 10/15/2027 (B)

    900,000        899,482  

FFMLT Trust
Series 2005-FF2, Class M4,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 2.98% (A), 03/25/2035

    275,247        277,132  

Figueroa CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class A1RR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.92% (A), 06/20/2027 (B) (D)

    300,000        300,000  

Flagship CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-8A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.90% (A), 01/16/2026 (B) (D)

    300,000        302,130  

Flagship VII, Ltd.
Series 2013-7A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.12%, 3.48% (A), 01/20/2026 (B)

    856,977        856,985  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Ford Credit Auto Owner Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A,
2.03%, 12/15/2027 (B)

    $   1,200,000        $   1,161,951  

Halcyon Loan Advisors Funding, Ltd.
Series 2014-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 10/22/2025 (B)

    800,000        800,100  

KVK CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 01/15/2026 (B)

    329,907        329,941  

Loomis Sayles CLO II, Ltd.
Series 2015-2A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 04/15/2028 (B)

    1,000,000        998,717  

Mountain View CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.90% (A), 10/15/2026 (B) (D)

    500,000        500,000  

Northstar Education Finance, Inc.
Series 2012-1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.79% (A), 12/26/2031 (B)

    30,593        30,717  

Oak Hill Credit Partners X, Ltd.
Series 2014-10A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.13%, 3.49% (A), 07/20/2026 (B)

    500,000        500,063  

Oaktree CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-2A, Class A1AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.22%, 3.58% (A), 10/20/2026 (B)

    300,000        300,053  

PHEAA Student Loan Trust
Series 2016-2A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.04% (A), 11/25/2065 (B)

    357,046        361,622  

Progress Residential Trust
Series 2016-SFR1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (A), 09/17/2033 (B)

    592,912        593,816  

SMB Private Education Loan Trust

    

Series 2016-B, Class A2B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.45%, 3.52% (A), 02/17/2032 (B)

    939,917        960,282  

Series 2016-C, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.62% (A), 11/15/2023 (B)

    80,072        80,102  

Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust
Series 2016-3A, Class A2,
1.42%, 10/15/2019 (B)

    27,813        27,798  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $13,900,460)

 

     14,006,626  
    

 

 

 
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT - 0.3%  
Banks - 0.3%  

Barclays Bank PLC
1.94% (E), 09/04/2018

    900,000        900,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Certificate of Deposit
(Cost $900,000)

 

     900,000  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 33.9%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.0% (F)  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
2.93%, 01/15/2025

    $   100,000        $   94,936  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.8%  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

3.00%, 04/15/2030

    378,819        355,768  

3.25%, 04/15/2030

    94,783        90,107  

British Airways Pass-Through Trust
3.80%, 03/20/2033 (B) (D)

    200,000        200,000  

Continental Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

4.00%, 04/29/2026

    38,628        38,780  

5.50%, 04/29/2022

    29,513        30,083  

Norwegian Air Shuttle Pass-Through Trust
4.88%, 11/10/2029 (B)

    1,021,730        973,198  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

2.88%, 04/07/2030

    486,785        450,568  

3.10%, 04/07/2030

    486,785        455,143  
    

 

 

 
       2,593,647  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 8.4%  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.
4.40%, 05/19/2026 (B) (G)

    1,300,000        1,274,384  

Bank of America Corp.

    

2.63%, 10/19/2020, MTN

    560,000        553,112  

Fixed until 12/20/2027,
3.42% (A), 12/20/2028

    2,481,000        2,336,294  

Bank of Montreal

    

1.75%, 06/15/2021 (B)

    900,000        865,618  

2.55%, 11/06/2022, MTN

    200,000        193,208  

Barclays PLC

    

3.25%, 02/12/2027, MTN (H)

    GBP  400,000        515,384  

3.65%, 03/16/2025

    $  500,000        468,316  

4.34%, 01/10/2028

    400,000        379,912  

BNP Paribas SA
3.38%, 01/09/2025 (B)

    900,000        850,214  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

2.05%, 12/07/2018

    830,000        828,410  

2.40%, 02/18/2020

    2,500,000        2,468,128  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.86%, 3.18% (A), 12/07/2018

    370,000        371,121  

4.40%, 06/10/2025

    300,000        298,361  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
3.75%, 07/21/2026

    600,000        561,680  

Dexia Credit Local SA
1.88%, 09/15/2021 (B)

    1,400,000        1,349,032  

HSBC USA, Inc.

    

2.38%, 11/13/2019

    180,000        178,236  

2.75%, 08/07/2020

    1,650,000        1,634,818  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.61%, 2.97% (A), 11/13/2019

    100,000        100,452  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    

3.25%, 09/23/2022

    200,000        198,146  

3.90%, 07/15/2025

    100,000        99,625  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC
4.38%, 03/22/2028

    200,000        197,304  

Manufacturers & Traders Trust Co.
2.25%, 07/25/2019

    250,000        248,322  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 1.88%, 4.18% (A), 03/01/2021

    $   535,000        $   553,852  

Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp.
2.65%, 10/19/2020 (B)

    200,000        196,829  

MUFG Americas Holdings Corp.
2.25%, 02/10/2020

    15,000        14,777  

MUFG Bank, Ltd.
2.30%, 03/05/2020 (B)

    200,000        196,866  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.
1.38%, 07/12/2019

    500,000        492,587  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    

Fixed until 05/18/2028,
4.89% (A), 05/18/2029

    400,000        398,220  

Fixed until 08/15/2021,
8.63% (A), 08/15/2021 (I)

    600,000        637,650  

Santander Holdings USA, Inc.
2.70%, 05/24/2019

    217,000        216,346  

Santander UK Group Holdings PLC

    

2.88%, 10/16/2020

    860,000        847,588  

3.13%, 01/08/2021

    100,000        98,614  

Santander UK PLC
2.38%, 03/16/2020

    1,700,000        1,674,221  

Sberbank of Russia Via SB Capital SA
5.18%, 06/28/2019 (H)

    400,000        405,400  

Stichting AK Rabobank Certificaten
6.50%, 12/29/2049 (H) (I)

    EUR  400,000        554,939  

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.
2.65%, 07/23/2020, MTN

    $  860,000        849,116  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.
2.63%, 07/14/2026 (G)

    200,000        182,229  

Swedbank AB
2.20%, 03/04/2020 (B)

    450,000        444,200  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

2.55%, 12/07/2020, MTN

    80,000        78,736  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.74% (A), 09/14/2018

    300,000        300,238  

3.00%, 02/19/2025, MTN

    200,000        188,650  

Fixed until 05/22/2027,
3.58% (A), 05/22/2028, MTN

    300,000        287,437  

Westpac Banking Corp.
2.25%, 11/09/2020 (B)

    700,000        687,577  
    

 

 

 
       25,276,149  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.6%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.
3.30%, 02/01/2023

    1,390,000        1,378,377  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.
4.38%, 04/15/2038

    400,000        388,322  
    

 

 

 
       1,766,699  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.4%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    

2.90%, 11/06/2022

    350,000        339,630  

3.20%, 11/06/2022

    1,000,000        983,511  
    

 

 

 
       1,323,141  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.2%  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.
4.00%, 06/15/2025

    410,000        411,109  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Building Products (continued)  

Masco Corp.
4.45%, 04/01/2025

    $   20,000        $   20,067  

Owens Corning

    

3.40%, 08/15/2026

    300,000        273,540  

4.20%, 12/01/2024

    20,000        19,732  
    

 

 

 
       724,448  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.7%  

Brighthouse Holdings LLC
6.50% (J), 07/27/2037 (B) (D) (I)

    200,000        196,000  

Charles Schwab Corp.
Fixed until 12/01/2027,
5.00% (A), 12/01/2027 (I)

    500,000        478,750  

Credit Suisse Group AG

    

Fixed until 01/12/2028,
3.87% (A), 01/12/2029 (B)

    400,000        376,131  

4.28%, 01/09/2028 (B)

    400,000        389,098  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3.75%, 03/26/2025

    900,000        865,592  

Deutsche Bank AG
4.25%, 10/14/2021

    400,000        394,348  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3.75%, 05/22/2025

    60,000        58,498  

3.85%, 07/08/2024, MTN

    2,300,000        2,280,680  

InterContinental Exchange, Inc.
2.75%, 12/01/2020

    40,000        39,678  

Lazard Group LLC
3.75%, 02/13/2025

    30,000        29,052  

Morgan Stanley

    

Fixed until 04/24/2023,
3.74% (A), 04/24/2024

    400,000        397,600  

4.00%, 07/23/2025, MTN

    60,000        59,818  

5.50%, 07/24/2020, MTN

    1,900,000        1,984,818  

S&P Global, Inc.
4.40%, 02/15/2026

    40,000        41,012  

UBS AG
4.50%, 06/26/2048 (B) (D)

    600,000        611,739  
    

 

 

 
       8,202,814  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.3%  

ERAC USA Finance LLC

    

4.50%, 02/15/2045 (B)

    15,000        14,140  

7.00%, 10/15/2037 (B)

    300,000        374,910  

Republic Services, Inc.
3.55%, 06/01/2022

    500,000        503,196  
    

 

 

 
       892,246  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.5%  

American Express Credit Corp.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.49%, 2.83% (A), 08/15/2019, MTN

    100,000        100,346  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 3.14% (A), 11/05/2018, MTN

    50,000        50,099  

Daimler Finance North America LLC
1.50%, 07/05/2019 (B)

    200,000        197,088  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.

    

3.20%, 07/13/2020

    150,000        149,292  

3.70%, 11/24/2020

    830,000        834,519  

Hyundai Capital America
2.50%, 03/18/2019 (B)

    500,000        497,694  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Consumer Finance (continued)  

Synchrony Financial

    

2.60%, 01/15/2019

    $   830,000        $   828,404  

2.70%, 02/03/2020

    15,000        14,842  

4.50%, 07/23/2025

    860,000        844,615  

Toyota Motor Credit Corp.
1.40%, 05/20/2019, MTN

    200,000        197,828  

Volkswagen Group of America Finance LLC
2.13%, 05/23/2019 (B)

    700,000        694,292  
    

 

 

 
       4,409,019  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.6%  

Nationwide Building Society
3.90%, 07/21/2025 (B)

    1,900,000        1,882,470  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.6%  

BRFkredit A/S
1.00%, 10/01/2018, MTN

    DKK  1,100,000        172,919  

Helios Leasing I LLC
1.56%, 09/28/2024

    $  109,087        103,777  

ORIX Corp.
3.25%, 12/04/2024

    600,000        573,268  

Protective Life Global Funding
2.70%, 11/25/2020 (B)

    830,000        818,889  

Tagua Leasing LLC
1.58%, 11/16/2024

    113,369        108,168  

Voya Financial, Inc.
Fixed until 01/23/2028,
4.70% (A), 01/23/2048 (B)

    200,000        178,000  
    

 

 

 
       1,955,021  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.3%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 3.26% (A), 06/30/2020

    40,000        40,447  

3.40%, 05/15/2025

    580,000        543,889  

4.30%, 02/15/2030 (B)

    527,000        497,439  

5.25%, 03/01/2037

    600,000        590,132  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

3.38%, 02/15/2025

    697,000        667,221  

4.33%, 09/21/2028 (B)

    717,000        710,619  

4.52%, 09/15/2048

    848,000        773,131  
    

 

 

 
       3,822,878  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 2.0%  

AEP Texas, Inc.
3.95%, 06/01/2028 (B) (D)

    500,000        498,428  

Appalachian Power Co.
3.40%, 06/01/2025

    650,000        639,915  

Duke Energy Corp.

    

3.75%, 04/15/2024

    100,000        99,786  

3.95%, 10/15/2023

    300,000        303,378  

4.80%, 12/15/2045

    830,000        868,270  

Duke Energy Florida LLC
3.80%, 07/15/2028

    500,000        502,708  

Electricite de France SA
3.63%, 10/13/2025 (B)

    800,000        783,214  

Entergy Louisiana LLC
3.30%, 12/01/2022

    100,000        98,440  

Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
2.85%, 06/01/2028

    1,100,000        1,008,383  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Electric Utilities (continued)  

IPALCO Enterprises, Inc.
3.70%, 09/01/2024

    $   300,000        $   290,898  

Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.
4.12%, 11/28/2042 (B)

    200,000        194,770  

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
3.50%, 06/15/2025

    20,000        18,658  

Southwestern Electric Power Co.
6.20%, 03/15/2040

    600,000        741,870  
    

 

 

 
       6,048,718  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.0% (F)  

Schneider Electric SE
2.95%, 09/27/2022 (B)

    150,000        147,270  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.1%  

Arrow Electronics, Inc.
3.25%, 09/08/2024

    300,000        280,444  

Flex, Ltd.
4.75%, 06/15/2025

    20,000        20,192  
    

 

 

 
       300,636  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.3%  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP / Regency Energy Finance Corp.
5.88%, 03/01/2022

    850,000        898,960  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 2.4%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

    

3.95%, 01/15/2027

    100,000        96,540  

4.30%, 01/15/2026

    1,090,000        1,090,578  

4.50%, 07/30/2029

    200,000        199,278  

American Tower Corp.

    

3.38%, 10/15/2026

    600,000        555,349  

4.00%, 06/01/2025

    300,000        294,148  

4.40%, 02/15/2026

    670,000        665,201  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
3.45%, 06/01/2025, MTN

    600,000        584,863  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    

4.45%, 02/15/2026

    200,000        197,978  

5.25%, 01/15/2023

    900,000        943,054  

Digital Realty Trust, LP
3.95%, 07/01/2022

    860,000        868,789  

Federal Realty Investment Trust
3.63%, 08/01/2046

    150,000        130,305  

Kilroy Realty, LP
4.38%, 10/01/2025

    590,000        590,820  

Mid-America Apartments, LP
4.00%, 11/15/2025

    580,000        574,813  

Prologis, LP
3.75%, 11/01/2025

    20,000        19,972  

Unibail-Rodamco SE
3-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 3.12% (A), 04/16/2019, MTN (H)

    200,000        200,711  

WP Carey, Inc.
4.60%, 04/01/2024

    400,000        404,177  
    

 

 

 
       7,416,576  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.2%  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.

    

3.50%, 07/15/2022

    20,000        19,767  

4.38%, 06/01/2046

    300,000        259,531  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Food Products (continued)  

Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.
4.60%, 06/01/2044 (G)

    $   200,000        $   208,521  
    

 

 

 
       487,819  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.3%  

ONE Gas, Inc.
2.07%, 02/01/2019

    300,000        298,948  

Southern California Gas Co.
4.13%, 06/01/2048

    500,000        501,010  
    

 

 

 
       799,958  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.8%  

Boston Scientific Corp.
3.38%, 05/15/2022

    650,000        641,239  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    

2.70%, 04/01/2020

    1,620,000        1,604,296  

3.15%, 04/01/2022

    30,000        29,451  

3.55%, 04/01/2025

    30,000        28,557  
    

 

 

 
       2,303,543  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.6%  

Aetna, Inc.
3.50%, 11/15/2024

    20,000        19,428  

AHS Hospital Corp.
5.02%, 07/01/2045

    400,000        455,237  

CVS Health Corp.

    

4.10%, 03/25/2025

    100,000        99,470  

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    350,000        345,243  

4.78%, 03/25/2038

    50,000        49,179  

Hackensack Meridian Health, Inc.
4.50%, 07/01/2057

    200,000        208,776  

Humana, Inc.
4.80%, 03/15/2047

    200,000        205,461  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
3.60%, 02/01/2025

    15,000        14,648  

Northwell Healthcare, Inc.
3.98%, 11/01/2046

    400,000        367,314  
    

 

 

 
       1,764,756  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.0% (F)  

Exelon Generation Co. LLC
6.25%, 10/01/2039

    100,000        105,862  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 2.2%  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc.
4.70%, 06/22/2047

    100,000        82,413  

Chubb INA Holdings, Inc.
3.35%, 05/03/2026

    40,000        38,783  

First American Financial Corp.
4.60%, 11/15/2024

    20,000        20,194  

Great-West Lifeco Finance, LP
4.05%, 05/17/2028 (B)

    200,000        201,573  

Jackson National Life Global Funding
2.60%, 12/09/2020 (B)

    820,000        807,185  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.
3.75%, 03/14/2026

    20,000        19,804  

Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 04/26/2028,
5.10% (A), 04/26/2048 (B) (G)

    600,000        605,250  

MetLife, Inc.
4.05%, 03/01/2045

    20,000        18,575  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I

    

2.00%, 04/14/2020 (B)

    $   150,000        $   146,887  

2.30%, 04/10/2019 (B)

    100,000        99,667  

2.50%, 12/03/2020 (B) (G)

    950,000        935,115  

Pacific Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 10/24/2047,
4.30% (A), 10/24/2067 (B)

    1,000,000        907,940  

Pricoa Global Funding I
2.55%, 11/24/2020 (B)

    830,000        817,415  

Principal Life Global Funding II

    

2.20%, 04/08/2020 (B)

    600,000        590,538  

3.00%, 04/18/2026 (B)

    300,000        281,248  

Reliance Standard Life Global Funding II
2.15%, 10/15/2018 (B)

    110,000        109,836  

Teachers Insurance & Annuity Association of America
4.27%, 05/15/2047 (B)

    800,000        765,066  

Travelers Cos., Inc.
3.75%, 05/15/2046

    100,000        91,633  

XLIT, Ltd.
4.45%, 03/31/2025

    20,000        19,678  
    

 

 

 
       6,558,800  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.2%  

Amazon.com, Inc.

    

2.50%, 11/29/2022

    200,000        194,099  

5.20%, 12/03/2025

    410,000        450,719  
    

 

 

 
       644,818  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.1%  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.
4.50%, 10/15/2022

    424,000        437,452  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.0% (F)  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.
3.30%, 02/15/2022

    40,000        39,767  
    

 

 

 
Marine - 0.1%  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S
3.88%, 09/28/2025 (B)

    300,000        289,859  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.2%  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital

    

4.20%, 03/15/2028 (G)

    500,000        468,090  

4.46%, 07/23/2022

    1,800,000        1,822,116  

5.38%, 05/01/2047

    300,000        272,429  

Comcast Corp.

    

4.40%, 08/15/2035

    20,000        19,460  

4.75%, 03/01/2044

    600,000        590,727  

Discovery Communications LLC
5.00%, 09/20/2037

    300,000        288,856  

Sky PLC
3.13%, 11/26/2022 (B)

    80,000        78,396  
    

 

 

 
       3,540,074  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.5%  

DTE Electric Co.
3.70%, 06/01/2046 (G)

    1,000,000        952,597  

E.ON International Finance BV
6.65%, 04/30/2038 (B)

    300,000        368,179  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Multi-Utilities (continued)  

Sempra Energy
2.88%, 10/01/2022

    $   150,000        $   145,337  
    

 

 

 
       1,466,113  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 1.6%  

APT Pipelines, Ltd.
4.25%, 07/15/2027 (B)

    300,000        294,003  

Concho Resources, Inc.
3.75%, 10/01/2027

    300,000        288,583  

Dolphin Energy, Ltd. LLC
5.50%, 12/15/2021 (G) (H)

    400,000        421,000  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP

    

4.05%, 03/15/2025

    200,000        193,243  

4.75%, 01/15/2026

    40,000        39,660  

7.50%, 07/01/2038

    100,000        114,132  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC
3.70%, 02/15/2026

    870,000        850,103  

Petroleos Mexicanos
6.00%, 03/05/2020

    128,000        132,160  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC
5.75%, 05/15/2024

    1,000,000        1,066,655  

Shell International Finance BV
4.00%, 05/10/2046

    400,000        387,398  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.
7.63%, 01/15/2039

    300,000        391,921  

TransCanada Trust
Fixed until 03/15/2027,
5.30% (A), 03/15/2077

    200,000        189,103  

Woodside Finance, Ltd.

    

3.65%, 03/05/2025 (B)

    20,000        19,491  

3.70%, 03/15/2028 (B)

    500,000        472,527  
    

 

 

 
       4,859,979  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 1.2%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.85%, 06/15/2024

    1,160,000        1,139,118  

Baxalta, Inc.
3.60%, 06/23/2022

    20,000        19,795  

Bayer US Finance II LLC
4.63%, 06/25/2038 (B)

    1,000,000        991,367  

ELI Lilly & Co.
3.10%, 05/15/2027

    300,000        287,161  

Johnson & Johnson
3.63%, 03/03/2037

    500,000        488,601  

Mylan, Inc.
4.55%, 04/15/2028 (B)

    200,000        195,451  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC

    

2.88%, 09/23/2023

    200,000        188,159  

3.20%, 09/23/2026

    300,000        274,917  
    

 

 

 
       3,584,569  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.6%  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC

    

4.13%, 06/15/2047 (G)

    800,000        782,460  

5.15%, 09/01/2043

    200,000        221,666  

Canadian National Railway Co.
2.25%, 11/15/2022

    100,000        95,382  

Kansas City Southern
4.95%, 08/15/2045

    500,000        502,724  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Road & Rail (continued)  

Union Pacific Corp.
4.10%, 09/15/2067

    $   200,000        $   175,474  
    

 

 

 
       1,777,706  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.2%  

Intel Corp.
4.10%, 05/11/2047

    500,000        498,569  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.3%  

Autodesk, Inc.
4.38%, 06/15/2025

    40,000        40,280  

Microsoft Corp.
4.10%, 02/06/2037

    500,000        520,938  

Oracle Corp.
2.95%, 05/15/2025

    290,000        276,851  
    

 

 

 
       838,069  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 0.1%  

QVC, Inc.

    

4.45%, 02/15/2025

    100,000        96,648  

4.85%, 04/01/2024

    100,000        99,248  
    

 

 

 
       195,896  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.6%  

Apple, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.66% (A), 05/06/2019

    100,000        100,242  

2.90%, 09/12/2027

    300,000        281,622  

3.20%, 05/11/2027

    200,000        192,895  

3.35%, 02/09/2027

    300,000        292,949  

3.75%, 09/12/2047

    200,000        187,444  

4.65%, 02/23/2046

    200,000        215,460  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
8.10%, 07/15/2036 (B)

    600,000        704,495  
    

 

 

 
       1,975,107  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.3%  

BAT Capital Corp.
4.39%, 08/15/2037 (B)

    800,000        750,513  

BAT International Finance PLC
3.50%, 06/15/2022 (B)

    20,000        19,810  

Reynolds American, Inc.
4.00%, 06/12/2022

    20,000        20,125  
    

 

 

 
       790,448  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.1%  

GATX Corp.
3.25%, 09/15/2026

    250,000        230,820  
    

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure - 0.2%  

Penske Truck Leasing Co., LP / PTL Finance Corp.
3.95%, 03/10/2025 (B)

    400,000        395,335  

Sydney Airport Finance Co. Pty, Ltd.

    

3.38%, 04/30/2025 (B)

    20,000        19,132  

3.90%, 03/22/2023 (B)

    200,000        198,863  
    

 

 

 
       613,330  
    

 

 

 
Water Utilities - 0.0% (F)  

American Water Capital Corp.
3.40%, 03/01/2025

    20,000        19,728  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.3%  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC

    

4.74%, 03/20/2025 (B)

    $   400,000        $   396,920  

5.15%, 09/20/2029 (B)

    400,000        392,000  
    

 

 

 
       788,920  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $104,698,557)

 

     102,367,590  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 4.2%  
Canada - 0.7%  

Province of Ontario
1.65%, 09/27/2019

    1,200,000        1,185,540  

Province of Quebec
2.50%, 04/20/2026

    900,000        855,937  
    

 

 

 
       2,041,477  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 1.0%  

Japan Finance Organization for Municipalities
2.13%, 04/13/2021 - 10/25/2023 (B)

    1,800,000        1,702,660  

Tokyo Metropolitan Government
2.00%, 05/17/2021 (B)

    1,500,000        1,448,452  
    

 

 

 
       3,151,112  
    

 

 

 
Kuwait - 0.2%  

Kuwait International Government Bond
3.50%, 03/20/2027 (B)

    500,000        486,710  
    

 

 

 
Qatar - 1.1%  

Qatar Government International Bond

    

2.38%, 06/02/2021 (H)

    2,800,000        2,702,280  

4.50%, 01/20/2022 (H)

    200,000        204,650  

5.10%, 04/23/2048 (B)

    400,000        398,784  
    

 

 

 
       3,305,714  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.1%  

Export-Import Bank of Korea
3-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 3.02% (A), 05/26/2019

    200,000        200,234  
    

 

 

 
Saudi Arabia - 1.0%  

Saudi Arabia Government International Bond

    

3.63%, 03/04/2028 (B)

    2,700,000        2,567,376  

4.63%, 10/04/2047 (B) (G)

    400,000        372,872  
    

 

 

 
       2,940,248  
    

 

 

 
United Arab Emirates - 0.1%  

Abu Dhabi Government International Bond
3.13%, 10/11/2027 (B)

    500,000        465,300  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $13,043,112)

 

     12,590,795  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 3.1%  

Aggregator of Loans Backed by Assets PLC
Series 2015-1, Class A,
1-Month GBP LIBOR + 1.25%, 1.75% (A), 04/24/2049 (H)

    GBP  250,409        332,588  

Banc of America Mortgage Trust
Series 2004-D, Class 2A2,
4.20% (A), 05/25/2034

    $  15,086        15,271  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Bear Stearns Alt-A Trust
Series 2005-5, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.44%, 2.53% (A), 07/25/2035

    $   16,844        $   16,908  

BX Trust
Series 2017-APPL, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.88%, 2.95% (A), 07/15/2034 (B)

    1,627,872        1,627,869  

CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust
Series 2004-J3, Class A7,
5.50%, 05/25/2034

    177,187        179,734  

COMM Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-HOME, Class A,
3.82% (A), 04/10/2033 (B)

    400,000        402,307  

DBUBS Mortgage Trust
Series 2017-BRBK, Class A,
3.45%, 10/10/2034 (B)

    1,000,000        993,007  

Eurosail PLC
Series 2006-4X, Class A3C,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.16%, 0.78% (A), 12/10/2044 (H)

    GBP  149,102        194,993  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
3.21% (A), 04/25/2028

    $  1,000,000        981,654  

Gemgarto PLC
Series 2015-1, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.95%, 1.58% (A), 02/16/2047 (H)

    GBP  4,145        5,472  

Independence Plaza Trust
Series 2018-INDP, Class A,
3.76%, 07/10/2035 (B) (D)

    $  600,000        601,196  

La Hipotecaria El Salvadorian Mortgage Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
3.36%, 01/15/2046 (B) (K)

    616,654        602,947  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust
Series 2003-B, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.77% (A), 04/25/2028

    309,540        298,232  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust
Series 2015-C25, Class A4,
3.37%, 10/15/2048

    900,000        885,613  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2013-C8, Class XA,
1.13% (A), 12/15/2048

    1,687,349        62,201  

MortgageIT Trust
Series 2005-2, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.61% (A), 05/25/2035

    66,376        66,545  

Southern Pacific Financing PLC
Series 2005-B, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.18%, 0.80% (A), 06/10/2043 (H)

    GBP  162,252        212,512  

Uropa Securities PLC

    

Series 2008-1, Class A,

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.20%, 0.82% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    447,945        575,970  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Uropa Securities PLC (continued)

    

Series 2008-1, Class B,

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.75%, 1.37% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    $  86,623        $   107,791  

Series 2008-1, Class M1,

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.35%, 0.97% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    103,624        130,440  

Series 2008-1, Class M2,

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.55%, 1.17% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    80,956        102,287  

Worldwide Plaza Trust
Series 2017-WWP, Class A,
3.53%, 11/10/2036 (B)

    900,000        880,122  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $9,417,139)

 

     9,275,659  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.7%  
California - 0.2%  

Bay Area Toll Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series S1,
6.92%, 04/01/2040

    200,000        275,614  

Los Angeles Community College District, General Obligation Unlimited,
6.60%, 08/01/2042

    200,000        279,478  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited,
7.35%, 11/01/2039

    300,000        427,041  
    

 

 

 
       982,133  
    

 

 

 
Illinois - 0.1%  

City of Chicago, General Obligation Unlimited,
Series B,
7.05%, 01/01/2029

    300,000        325,590  
    

 

 

 
Maryland - 0.1%  

County of Baltimore, General Obligation Unlimited,
3.30%, 07/01/2046

    200,000        182,302  
    

 

 

 
Michigan - 0.1%  

Michigan Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.31%, 06/01/2034

    235,000        239,970  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.1%  

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Revenue Bonds,
4.46%, 10/01/2062

    200,000        212,414  
    

 

 

 
Utah - 0.0% (F)  

Utah State Board of Regents, Revenue Bonds,
Series 1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (A), 12/26/2031

    34,888        34,908  
    

 

 

 
West Virginia - 0.1%  

Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.47%, 06/01/2047

    190,000        189,333  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $2,091,276)

 

     2,166,650  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 16.1%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

1.25%, 10/02/2019

    $   7,350,000        $   7,238,324  

2.38%, 01/13/2022

    7,500,000        7,401,555  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates
1-Month LIBOR + 0.67%, 2.67% (A), 02/25/2023

    286,270        287,078  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.26% (A), 01/15/2038

    927,704        926,777  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (A), 02/15/2041 - 09/15/2045

    391,111        393,383  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS
1.40% (A), 01/15/2038

    927,704        39,263  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Interest Only STRIPS
(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.89%, 3.82% (A), 09/15/2043

    1,082,727        182,091  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

3.50%, 06/01/2045

    309,385        308,856  

3.50%, TBA (C)

    26,600,000        26,448,498  

3.70%, 09/01/2034

    469,596        471,522  

4.50%, TBA (C)

    1,000,000        1,039,384  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.57%, 2.66% (A), 06/25/2041

    322,336        325,849  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (A), 05/25/2040

    301,643        305,287  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.94% (A), 11/25/2039

    898,308        920,673  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS
3.00%, 03/25/2028

    605,114        56,872  

Government National Mortgage Association
1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.72% (A), 05/20/2066 - 06/20/2066

    2,269,245        2,301,938  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $48,597,249)

 

     48,647,350  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 39.7%  
U.S. Treasury - 39.3%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.75%, 08/15/2047

    1,500,000        1,431,387  

2.88%, 11/15/2046 (L)

    1,700,000        1,664,473  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (L)

    5,000,000        5,016,797  

3.13%, 05/15/2048 (L)

    1,100,000        1,130,551  

4.25%, 05/15/2039

    3,400,000        4,101,383  

4.38%, 11/15/2039

    4,000,000        4,912,812  

4.50%, 08/15/2039 (L)

    16,630,000        20,736,181  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.25%, 04/30/2019 (L) (M)

    2,100,000        2,081,543  

1.88%, 03/31/2022 - 07/31/2022 (L)

    18,600,000        18,060,156  

2.00%, 12/31/2021 (L) (M)

    2,200,000        2,151,188  

2.00%, 11/15/2026 (L)

    1,875,000        1,757,153  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Note (continued)

    

2.13%, 12/31/2022 (L)

    $   100,000        $   97,488  

2.25%, 02/15/2027 - 11/15/2027 (L)

    47,250,000        45,055,212  

2.38%, 05/15/2027 (L)

    5,100,000        4,911,340  

2.75%, 04/30/2023 - 05/31/2023 (L)

    2,500,000        2,502,879  

2.88%, 05/15/2028 (C) (L)

    3,200,000        3,206,375  
    

 

 

 
       118,816,918  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.4%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond
1.00%, 02/15/2046 (L)

    1,162,832        1,197,609  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $122,888,192)

 

     120,014,527  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.2%  
Greece - 0.2%  

Hellenic Republic Treasury Bill

    

1.08% (E), 10/05/2018

    EUR  100,000        116,493  

1.27% (E), 03/15/2019

    400,000        463,761  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $612,196)

 

     580,254  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.3%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.85% (E), 08/02/2018 (N)

    $  39,000        38,935  

1.87% (E), 08/02/2018 (N)

    387,000        386,350  

1.92% (E), 09/27/2018 (N)

    33,000        32,846  

1.96% (E), 10/04/2018 (N)

    637,000        633,738  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $1,091,869)

 

     1,091,869  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.6%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (E)

    4,759,228        4,759,228  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $4,759,228)

 

     4,759,228  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 30.1%  

Bank of Nova Scotia, 2.30% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $6,301,208 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.75%, due 11/15/2018, and with a value of $6,433,525.

    $  6,300,000        6,300,000  

BNP Paribas, 2.22% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $26,604,921 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.50%, due 05/15/2024, and with a value of $27,141,544.

    26,600,000        26,600,000  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $4,898,481 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $4,998,302.

    $   4,898,114        $  4,898,114  

RBC Capital Markets LLC, 2.22% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $53,209,842 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 1.50% - 3.13%, due 02/28/2019 - 05/15/2019, and with a total value of $54,358,848.

    53,200,000        53,200,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $90,998,114)

 

     90,998,114  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options/Swaptions (Cost $412,997,392)

 

     407,398,662  

Total Purchased Options/Swaptions - 1.2%
(Cost $3,150,705)

 

     3,679,455  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $416,148,097)

 

     411,078,117  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (36.1)%

 

     (108,945,909
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  302,132,208  
    

 

 

 
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - (26.3)%  

Bank of Nova Scotia, 1.91% (E), dated 04/13/2018, to be repurchased at $(20,949,421) on 07/12/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and with a value of $(21,023,500).

    $  (20,849,863      $  (20,849,863

Bank of Nova Scotia, 1.96% (E), dated 05/02/2018, to be repurchased at $(9,140,459) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 03/31/2022, and with a value of $(9,175,706).

    (9,106,250      (9,106,250

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., 2.10% (E), dated 06/27/2018, to be repurchased at $(3,750,060) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.13%, due 05/31/2023 - 05/15/2048, and with a total value of $(3,780,135).

    (3,747,000      (3,747,000

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., 2.18% (E), dated 06/28/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,442,486) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.25%, due 08/15/2027, and with a value of $(1,440,580).

    (1,441,875      (1,441,875
     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

JPMorgan Securities LLC, 1.87% (E), dated 06/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(4,883,103) on 07/24/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.00%, due 02/15/2048, and with a value of $(5,074,225).

    $   (4,875,000      $   (4,875,000

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 1.99% (E), dated 05/09/2018, to be repurchased at $(4,938,367) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.38%, due 05/15/2027, and with a value of $(4,927,606).

    (4,921,500      (4,921,500

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 2.18% (E), dated 06/20/2018, to be repurchased at $(2,345,504) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 2.75%, due 04/30/2023 - 02/15/2027, and with a total value of $(2,349,484).

    (2,343,375      (2,343,375

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.06% (E), dated 05/21/2018, to be repurchased at $(25,917,597) on 07/23/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.13%, due 02/15/2027 - 08/15/2044, and Cash with a total value of $(26,013,168).

    (25,824,500      (25,824,500

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.08% (E), dated 05/24/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,511,747) on 07/06/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.13%, due 08/15/2027 - 08/15/2044 and Cash with a total value of $(1,515,017).

    (1,508,000      (1,508,000

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.20% (E), dated 06/15/2018, to be repurchased at $(956,167) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.13%, due 02/15/2027 - 08/15/2044, and Cash with a total value of $(949,207).

    (955,000      (955,000

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.05% (E), dated 05/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(2,165,027) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.25%, due 08/15/2027, and with a value of $(2,208,889).

    (2,159,125      (2,159,125

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.07% (E), dated 05/29/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,716,096) on 07/30/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.25%, due 08/15/2027, and with a value of $(1,728,696).

    (1,710,000      (1,710,000
    

 

 

 

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $79,441,488)

 

     $  (79,441,488
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description    Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

     USD        121.00        07/27/2018        USD       8,172,920        68      $ 16,043      $ 12,750  

Put - S&P 500®

     USD        2,325.00        06/21/2019        USD       110,637,659        407        2,200,054        2,572,240  
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                 $   2,216,097      $   2,584,990  
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate Index     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    CSS       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       1.85     11/30/2018       USD       25,700,000     $ 37,086     $ 1,904  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    CITI       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.00       12/19/2018       USD       25,700,000       56,935       2,207  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.15       01/31/2019       USD       28,500,000       29,925       7,129  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       3.04       06/22/2020       USD       90,100,000       326,162       349,726  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Pay       2.30       10/21/2019       USD       5,100,000       484,500       733,499  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                $   934,608     $   1,094,465  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD       120.00       07/27/2018       USD       8,172,920       68     $   (38,145   $   (37,188

OVER-THE-COUNTER CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    JPM       Pay       0.73     07/18/2018        USD       300,000     $ (278   $ (122

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    BNP       Pay       0.75       07/18/2018        USD       1,000,000       (950     (334

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    CITI       Pay       0.85       07/18/2018        USD       800,000       (824     (170

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    DUB       Pay       0.95       07/18/2018        USD       1,700,000       (2,826     (226
              

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

               $   (4,878   $   (852
              

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate Index     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - 1-Year

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       3.02     06/21/2021       USD       90,100,000       $  (423,470)       $  (463,773)  

Call - 10-Year

    CITI       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.19       12/19/2018       USD       5,400,000       (56,921)       (5,550)  

Call - 10-Year

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.21       01/31/2019       USD       5,700,000       (29,925)       (9,479)  

Put - 5-Year

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Pay       2.00       10/21/2019       USD       25,500,000       (484,500)       (1,149,157)  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                  $  (994,816)       $  (1,627,959)  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 
                                                      Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS AND SWAPTIONS

 

    $  (1,037,839)       $  (1,665,999)  

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (O)  
Reference Obligation   Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (P)
    Value (Q)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 25

    1.00     Quarterly       12/20/2020       USD       10,700,000     $ 171,583     $ 201,867     $ (30,284

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 26

    1.00       Quarterly       06/20/2021       USD       700,000       12,385       15,002       (2,617

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    1.00       Quarterly       06/20/2023       USD       1,200,000       18,083       19,252       (1,169
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

 

  $   202,051     $   236,121     $   (34,070
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Swap Agreements  
Floating Rate Index   Pay/Receive
Fixed Rate
    Fixed
Rate
    Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Premiums Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       1.50   Semi-Annually/ Quarterly     06/21/2027       USD       9,300,000     $ 1,074,188     $ 675,316     $ 398,872  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       1.75     Semi-Annually/ Quarterly     12/21/2026       USD       100,000       9,020       4,842       4,178  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Receive       2.25     Semi-Annually/ Quarterly     12/16/2022       USD       500,000       (13,540     445       (13,985

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       2.25     Semi-Annually/ Quarterly     06/20/2028       USD       46,000,000       2,720,699       2,821,039         (100,340

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       2.50     Semi-Annually/ Quarterly     12/20/2027       USD       1,500,000       56,779       24,561       32,218  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       2.75     Semi-Annually/ Quarterly     12/20/2047       USD       2,400,000       111,629       (82,044     193,673  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

    Receive       2.04     Semi-Annually/ Annually     02/03/2037       EUR       3,200,000       18,977       31,815       (12,838

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

    Pay       1.50     Semi-Annually     09/19/2028       GBP       5,400,000       33,728       120,769       (87,041

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

    Pay       2.04     Semi-Annually     02/01/2037       GBP       2,900,000       (74,887     (141,788     66,901  

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

    Pay       0.75     Semi-Annually     03/20/2038       JPY       290,000,000       (51,975     39,771       (91,746
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   3,884,618     $   3,494,726     $ 389,892  
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (O)  
Reference Obligation   Counterparty     Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (P)
    Value (Q)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America CMBS Basket Index - Series AAA8

    GSI       0.50   Monthly     10/17/2057       USD       1,700,000     $ 5,310     $ (74,234   $ 79,544  

North America CMBS Basket Index - Series AAA9

    GSI       0.50     Monthly     09/17/2058       USD       900,000       (337     (54,244     53,907  
                

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

          $   4,973     $   (128,478   $   133,451  
                

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Total Return Swap Agreements (R)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty     Pay/
Receive
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Shares or
Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    MLI       Receive       Quarterly       08/22/2018       USD       2,991,095       498     $ (42,212   $ (952   $ (41,260

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    CITI       Receive       Quarterly       05/23/2019       USD       12,629,313       2,062       (427,579           (427,579
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

            $   (469,791   $   (952   $   (468,839
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

      Value  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Assets)

   $ 5,310  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Liabilities)

   $   (470,128

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                  
Description   Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

90-Day Eurodollar

    Long       191        09/17/2018     $ 46,571,104      $ 46,577,738      $ 6,634      $  

90-Day Eurodollar

    Long       138        12/17/2018       33,701,502        33,589,200               (112,302

90-Day Eurodollar

    Long       258        03/18/2019       62,962,005        62,719,800               (242,205

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (224      06/17/2019       (54,765,178      (54,401,200      363,978         

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (121      09/16/2019       (29,552,617      (29,366,700      185,917         

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (443      12/16/2019       (108,118,106      (107,466,263      651,843         

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (258      03/16/2020       (62,835,570      (62,577,900      257,670         

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       23        09/28/2018       2,608,372        2,613,195        4,823         

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Short       (66      09/19/2018       (7,858,555      (7,932,375             (73,820

Euro OAT Index

    Short       (24      09/06/2018       (4,282,474      (4,331,324             (48,850

German Euro Bund Index

    Short       (5      09/06/2018       (945,118      (949,129             (4,011

Russell 2000® Mini Index

    Long       183        09/21/2018       15,353,208        15,074,625               (278,583

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long       773        09/21/2018       107,432,579        105,189,840               (2,242,739

U.S. Treasury Bond

    Long       54        09/19/2018       7,931,464        8,063,000        131,536         
              

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

               $   1,602,401      $   (3,002,510
              

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS:  
Counterparty    Settlement
Date
     Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BOA

     08/24/2018        USD        999,000        RUB        61,987,950      $   17,800      $  

CITI

     07/10/2018        RUB        182,747,169        USD        2,889,795        17,051         

CITI

     08/15/2018        JPY        212,161,167        USD        1,946,969                 (24,646

CITI

     03/15/2019        USD        509,001        EUR        400,000        32,033         

CSS

     10/05/2018        USD        124,750        EUR        100,000        7,107         

GSB

     07/03/2018        USD        598,119        EUR        512,000        80         

GSB

     07/03/2018        USD        234,720        GBP        176,000        2,413         

GSB

     08/08/2018        ZAR        8,575,000        USD        620,833        1,141         

GSB

     08/08/2018        USD        365,553        ZAR        5,071,000               (2,263

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS (continued):

 

Counterparty    Settlement
Date
     Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

GSB

     08/24/2018        USD        423,000        RUB        26,505,180      $ 3,453      $  

HSBC

     07/10/2018        USD        2,899,368        RUB        182,747,169               (7,478

HSBC

     08/24/2018        USD        975,326        RUB        60,959,600        10,403         

HSBC

     08/24/2018        RUB        182,747,169        USD        2,885,770        6,913         

JPM

     08/08/2018        USD        277,981        ZAR        3,547,540        20,666         

JPM

     08/24/2018        USD        560,000        RUB        35,067,200        4,925         

JPM

     10/01/2018        DKK        19,000        USD        2,947        54         

JPM

     10/01/2018        USD        166,483        DKK        1,130,000               (11,944

SCB

     07/03/2018        USD        2,103,087        GBP        1,582,000        14,971         
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

            $   139,010      $   (46,331
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (S)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 14,006,626     $     $ 14,006,626  

Certificate of Deposit

          900,000             900,000  

Corporate Debt Securities

          102,367,590             102,367,590  

Foreign Government Obligations

          12,590,795             12,590,795  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          9,275,659             9,275,659  

Municipal Government Obligations

          2,166,650             2,166,650  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          48,647,350             48,647,350  

U.S. Government Obligations

          120,014,527             120,014,527  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

          580,254             580,254  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          1,091,869             1,091,869  

Securities Lending Collateral

    4,759,228                   4,759,228  

Repurchase Agreements

          90,998,114             90,998,114  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    2,584,990                   2,584,990  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

          1,094,465             1,094,465  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 7,344,218     $ 403,733,899     $     $ 411,078,117  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Centrally Cleared Credit Default Swap Agreements

  $     $ 202,051     $     $ 202,051  

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          4,025,020             4,025,020  

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          5,310             5,310  

Futures Contracts (T)

    1,602,401                   1,602,401  

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (T)

          139,010             139,010  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 1,602,401     $ 4,371,391     $     $ 5,973,792  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $     $ (79,441,488   $     $ (79,441,488

Exchange-Traded Options Written

    (37,188                 (37,188

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swaptions Written

          (852           (852

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Written

          (1,627,959           (1,627,959

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          (140,402           (140,402

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          (337           (337

Over-the-Counter Total Return Swap Agreements

          (469,791           (469,791

Futures Contracts (T)

    (3,002,510                 (3,002,510

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (T)

          (46,331           (46,331
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (3,039,698   $ (81,727,160   $     $ (84,766,858
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $53,489,026, representing 17.7% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(D)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $4,903,957 or 1.6% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(F)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(G)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $4,661,430. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(H)    Securities are exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. At June 30, 2018, the total value of Regulation S securities is $6,666,417, representing 2.2% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(I)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(J)    Step bond. Coupon rate changes in increments to maturity. The rate disclosed is as of June 30, 2018; the maturity date disclosed is the ultimate maturity date.
(K)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the value of the security is $602,947, representing 0.2% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(L)    Securities are subject to sale-buyback transactions.
(M)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral for centrally cleared swap agreements. The value of the security is $1,693,480.
(N)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral for open over-the-counter swaptions, swap agreements and forward foreign currency contracts. The total value of such securities is $719,779.
(O)    If the Portfolio is a seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Portfolio will either (a) pay to the buyer of protection an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation or (b) pay a net settlement amount in the form of cash or securities equal to the notional amount of the swap agreement less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation.
(P)    The maximum potential amount the Portfolio could be required to pay as a seller of credit protection or receive as a buyer of credit protection if a credit event occurs as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement.
(Q)    The quoted market prices and resulting values for credit default swap agreements on asset-backed securities and credit indices serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of an expected liability (or profit) for the credit derivative had the notional amount of the swap agreement been closed/sold as of the period ended. Increasing market values, in absolute terms when compared to the notional amount of the swap agreement, represent a deterioration of the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement.
(R)    At the termination date, a net cash flow is exchanged where the total return is equivalent to the return of the reference entity less a financing rate, if any. As a receiver, the Portfolio would receive payments based on any positive total return and would owe payments in the event of a negative total return. As the payer, the Portfolio would owe payments on any net positive total return and would receive payment in the event of a negative total return.
(S)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(T)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

DKK    Danish Krone
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
JPY    Japanese Yen
RUB    Russian Ruble
USD    United States Dollar
ZAR    South African Rand

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

BNP    BNP Paribas
BOA    Bank of America, N.A.
CITI    Citibank N.A.
CSS    Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC
DUB    Deutsche Bank AG
GSB    Goldman Sachs Bank
GSI    Goldman Sachs International
HSBC    HSBC Bank USA
JPM    JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
MLI    Merrill Lynch International
MSC    Morgan Stanley & Co.
SCB    Standard Chartered Bank

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CMBS    Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities
EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
ETF    Exchange-Traded Fund
EURIBOR    Euro Interbank Offer Rate
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
OAT    Obligations Assimilables du Tresor (Treasury Obligations)
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities
TBA    To Be Announced

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $325,149,983)
(including securities loaned of $4,661,430)

  $ 320,080,003  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $90,998,114)

    90,998,114  

Cash

    358  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    1,223,000  

Futures contracts

    5,398,000  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $349,102)

    339,008  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Investments sold

    228,859  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments sold

    23,007,486  

Interest

    2,247,984  

Tax reclaims

    1,164  

Net income from securities lending

    619  

Variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swap agreements

    159,114  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    236,267  

Prepaid expenses

    1,023  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    5,310  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    139,010  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    444,065,319  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

TBA commitments

    265,000  

OTC derivatives (A)

    360,000  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    217,744  

Sale-buyback financing transactions

    3,204,935  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    50,976,713  

Investment management fees

    191,411  

Distribution and service fees

    58,636  

Transfer agent costs

    690  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,106  

Audit and tax fees

    13,790  

Custody fees

    20,047  

Legal fees

    3,885  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    26,808  

Interest

    205,133  

Deferred income for sale-buyback financing transactions

    217  

Other

    3,822  

Collateral for securities on loan

    4,759,228  

Reverse repurchase agreements, at value (cost $79,441,488)

    79,441,488  

Written options and swaptions, at value (premium received $1,037,839)

    1,665,999  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    470,128  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    46,331  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    141,933,111  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 302,132,208  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 252,766  

Additional paid-in capital

      279,706,666  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    9,317,190  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    19,850,509  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (5,069,980

Written options and swaptions

    (628,160

Swap agreements

    20,434  

Futures contracts

    (1,400,109

Forward foreign currency contracts

    92,679  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (9,787
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   302,132,208  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 9,733,630  

Service Class

    292,398,578  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    804,958  

Service Class

    24,471,632  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.09  

Service Class

    11.95  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 4,522,427  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    4,236  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    4,526,663  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,212,211  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    371,569  

Transfer agent costs

    2,246  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    4,891  

Audit and tax fees

    13,459  

Custody fees

    87,113  

Legal fees

    9,619  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    15,257  

Interest

    119,194  

Other

    4,607  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    1,840,166  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,686,497  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    (2,188,153

Written options and swaptions

    51,558  

Swap agreements

    2,462,544  

Futures contracts

    5,081,424  

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (637,620

Foreign currency transactions

    (79,665

TBA short commitments

    537  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    4,690,625  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (7,962,331

Written options and swaptions

    (444,748

Swap agreements

    (205,974

Futures contracts

    (2,701,713

Forward foreign currency contracts

    471,938  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (60,762
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (10,903,590
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (6,212,965
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (3,526,468
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,686,497     $ 4,117,570  

Net realized gain (loss)

    4,690,625       22,903,942  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (10,903,590     4,758,083  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (3,526,468     31,779,595  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (142,458

Service Class

          (4,002,068
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (4,144,526
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (298,658

Service Class

          (9,775,123
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (10,073,781
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (14,218,307
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    319,237       496,472  

Service Class

    5,941,065       20,507,462  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    6,260,302       21,003,934  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          441,116  

Service Class

          13,777,191  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          14,218,307  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (395,610     (1,038,305

Service Class

    (20,161,603     (41,269,447
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (20,557,213     (42,307,752
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (14,296,911     (7,085,511
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (17,823,379     10,475,777  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    319,955,587       309,479,810  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   302,132,208     $   319,955,587  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 9,317,190     $ 6,630,693  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    26,399       41,399  

Service Class

    496,880       1,751,075  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    523,279       1,792,474  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          37,766  

Service Class

          1,191,799  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,229,565  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (32,566     (86,807

Service Class

    (1,681,970     (3,484,852
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,714,536     (3,571,659
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (6,167     (7,642

Service Class

    (1,185,090     (541,978
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,191,257     (549,620
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Cash flows provided by (used for) operating activities:

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (3,526,468

Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:

 

Purchases of long-term investments

    (228,858,203

Proceeds of long-term investments

    232,737,362  

Purchases to cover securities sold short

    (1,339,219

Proceeds from securities sold short

    1,340,191  

Net purchases/proceeds of short-term investments

    5,587,832  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    10,903,590  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (4,690,625

Net amortization (accretion) of discount and premium

    15,591  

(Increase) decrease in receivables for investments sold

    (5,130,061

(Increase) decrease in receivables for interest

    277,331  

(Increase) decrease in receivables for net income from securities lending

    (354

(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses

    (1,023

Increase (decrease) in payables for investments purchased

    14,363,086  

Increase (decrease) in dividends and interest payable

    80,883  

Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities

    (51,077

Increase (decrease) in collateral for securities on loan

    3,364,598  

Net cash provided by (used for) swap agreement transactions

    2,681,248  

Net cash provided by (used for) written options and swaptions transactions

    501,950  

Net cash provided by (used for) in futures contracts transactions

    1,769,925  

Net cash provided by (used for) forward foreign currency contracts

    (778,047
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

    29,248,510  
 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

Increase (decrease) in payable reverse repurchase agreements

    8,760,113  

Proceeds from shares sold, net of receivable for shares sold

    6,273,904  

Payment of shares redeemed, net of payable for shares redeemed

    (20,521,725

Proceeds from Sale-buyback financing transactions

    418,240,560  

Payments from Sale-buyback financing transaction

      (442,534,656
 

 

 

 

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    (29,781,804
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and foreign currencies

    (533,294
 

 

 

 

Cash and foreign currencies, at beginning of period (A) (B)

  $ 6,868,660  
 

 

 

 

Cash and foreign currencies, at end of period (B)

  $ 6,335,366  
 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

 

Dividends, interest and fees for borrowings from securities sold short paid

  $ 38,311  

 

(A)    Beginning balance is reflective of Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Restricted Cash, a consensus of the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force.
(B)    For the period ended June 30, 2018, the beginning and ending cash balances consist of the following:

 

    Beginning
of Period
     End of
Period
 

Assets:

    

Cash

  $ 636,246      $ 358  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Reverse repurchase agreements

    274,000         

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    1,032,000        1,223,000  

Futures contracts

    4,777,000        5,398,000  

Foreign currency, at value

    419,414        339,008  
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

    7,138,660        6,960,366  
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities:

    

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

OTC derivatives

    270,000        360,000  

TBA Commitments

           265,000  
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    270,000        625,000  
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash per statement of assets and liabilities

  $ 6,868,660      $   6,335,366  
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total cash and foreign currencies per statement of cash flows

  $   6,868,660      $   6,335,366  
 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.21     $ 11.56     $ 11.05     $ 11.55     $ 10.97     $ 10.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.12       0.18       0.12 (B)       0.06       0.05       0.04  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.24     1.03       0.46       (0.26     0.92       0.82  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.12     1.21       0.58       (0.20     0.97       0.86  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.18     (0.07     (0.05     (0.16     (0.08

Net realized gains

          (0.38           (0.25     (0.23      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.56     (0.07     (0.30     (0.39     (0.08
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.09     $ 12.21     $ 11.56     $ 11.05     $ 11.55     $ 10.97  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (0.98 )%(D)      10.70     5.22     (1.77 )%      8.93     8.44
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   9,734     $   9,908     $   9,469     $   9,739     $   10,581     $   10,011  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(E)(F)      0.95 %(F)      0.88     0.89     0.89     0.96

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.96 %(E)(F)      0.95 %(F)      0.88 %(B)      0.90     0.92     0.92

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.00 %(E)      1.53     1.08 %(B)      0.53     0.48     0.42

Portfolio turnover rate

    20 %(D)(G)      43 %(G)      58 %(G)      53     31     72 %(H) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Includes interest fee on sale-buyback transactions.
(G)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.
(H)    Decrease in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.08     $ 11.45     $ 10.95     $ 11.47     $ 10.90     $ 10.14  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.10       0.15       0.09 (B)       0.03       0.03       0.02  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.23     1.02       0.46       (0.27     0.91       0.80  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.13     1.17       0.55       (0.24     0.94       0.82  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.16     (0.05     (0.03     (0.14     (0.06

Net realized gains

          (0.38           (0.25     (0.23      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.54     (0.05     (0.28     (0.37     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.95     $ 12.08     $ 11.45     $ 10.95     $ 11.47     $ 10.90  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (1.08 )%(D)      10.39     4.98     (2.08 )%      8.72     8.16
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   292,398     $   310,048     $   300,011     $   241,777     $   144,469     $   94,659  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.21 %(E)(F)      1.20 %(F)      1.13     1.14     1.14     1.21

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.21 %(E)(F)      1.20 %(F)      1.13 %(B)      1.15     1.18     1.17

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.74 %(E)      1.28     0.83 %(B)      0.30     0.23     0.18

Portfolio turnover rate

    20 %(D)(G)      43 %(G)      58 %(G)      53     31     72 %(H) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Includes interest fee on sale-buyback transactions.
(G)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.
(H)    Decrease in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica PIMCO Tactical—Conservative VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Statement of cash flows: GAAP requires entities providing financial statements that report both a financial position and results of operations to also provide a Statement of Cash Flows for each period for which results of operations are provided, but exempts investment companies meeting certain conditions. These conditions may include the enterprise had little or no debt, based on the average debt outstanding during the period, or little or no illiquid investments, in relation to average total assets. Portfolios with certain degrees of borrowing activity, typically through the use of sale-buyback financing transactions, line of credit borrowing, short sale transactions, or illiquid investments have been determined to be at a level requiring a Statement of Cash Flows. A Statement of Cash Flows has been prepared using the indirect method which requires net change in net assets resulting from operations to be adjusted to reconcile to net cash flows from operating activities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    23


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Reverse repurchase agreements: The Portfolio may enter into reverse repurchase agreements in which the Portfolio sells portfolio securities and agrees to repurchase them from the buyer at a specified date and price. The Portfolio may utilize reverse repurchase agreements when it is anticipated that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the proceeds of the transaction is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to be a form of borrowing. Pursuant to the terms of the reverse repurchase agreements, the Portfolio’s custodian must segregate assets with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the repurchase price. In periods of increased demand for the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio. Reverse repurchase agreements involve

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

leverage risk and also the risk that the market value of the securities that the Portfolio are obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio is subject to the risk that the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio. In the event of a default by the counterparty, there may be delays, costs and risks of loss involved in the Portfolio exercising its rights under the agreement, or those rights may be limited by other contractual agreements.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily

Borrowing

 

Number of Days

Outstanding

 

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

$  69,129,611

  181   1.73%

Open reverse repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The interest expense is included in interest income on the Statement of Operations.

Sale-buyback: The Portfolio may enter into sale-buyback financing transactions. The Portfolio accounts for sale-buyback financing transactions as borrowing transactions and realize gains and losses on these transactions at the end of the roll period. Sale-buyback financing transactions involve sales by the Portfolio of securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase the same or substantially similar securities at an agreed upon price and date.

The Portfolio forgoes principal and interest paid during the roll period on the securities sold in a sale-buyback financing transaction. The Portfolio is compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the price for the future purchase (often referred to as the “price drop”), as well as by any interest earned on the proceeds of the securities sold. Sale-buyback financing transactions may be renewed with a new sale and a repurchase price and a cash settlement made at each renewal without physical delivery of the securities subject to the contract. Sale-buyback financing transactions expose the Portfolio to risks such as, the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio, the market value of the securities the Portfolio is obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio’s obligations under a sale-buyback typically would be offset by liquid assets equal in value to the amount of the Portfolio’s forward commitment to repurchase the subject security. Sale-buyback financing transactions accounted for as borrowing transactions are excluded from the Portfolio’s portfolio turnover rates. The Portfolio recognizes price drop fee income on a straight line basis over the period of the roll. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio earned price drop fee income of $86,513. The price drop fee income is included in Interest income within the Statement of Operations.

The outstanding payable for securities to be repurchased, if any, is included in Payable for sale-buyback financing transactions within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The interest expense is included within Interest income on the Statement of Operations. In periods of increased demand of the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio, and is reflected in Interest income on the Statement of Operations.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily

Borrowing

 

Number of Days

Outstanding

 

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

$  14,874,533   181   1.59%

Open sale-buyback financing transactions at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Corporate Debt Securities

  $ 4,380,266     $     $     $     $ 4,380,266  

Foreign Government Obligations

    378,962                         378,962  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $   4,759,228     $     $     $     $ 4,759,228  

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $ 78,092,034     $ 1,710,000     $     $ 79,802,034  

Cash

    (360,546                       (360,546

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $ (360,546   $   78,092,034     $ 1,710,000     $     $ 79,441,488  

Sale Buy-back Transactions

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $ 3,204,935     $     $     $ 3,204,935  

Total Borrowings

  $ 4,398,682     $ 81,296,969     $   1,710,000     $     $   87,405,651  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Options on futures: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on futures. Purchasing or writing options on futures gives the Portfolio the right, but not obligation to buy or sell a position on a futures contract at the specified option exercise price at any time during the period of the option.

Options on foreign currency: The Portfolio may purchase or write foreign currency options. Purchasing or writing options on foreign currency gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the currency and will specify the amount of currency and a rate of exchange that may be exercised by a specified date.

Interest rate-capped options: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate-capped options. Purchasing or writing interest rate-capped options gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell an option which applies a cap to protect the Portfolio from floating rate risk above a certain rate on a given notional exposure. A floor can be used to give downside protection to investments in interest rate-linked products.

Credit default swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write credit default swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. Purchasing or writing credit default swaptions gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell credit protection on a specific reference with a specific maturity.

Interest rate swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. The writer of the swaption becomes the counterparty to the swap if the buyer exercises. The interest rate swaption agreement will specify whether the buyer of the swaption will be a fixed-rate receiver or a fixed-rate payer upon exercise.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Written options: Writing call options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. Writing put options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. When the Portfolio writes a covered call or put option, the premium received is recorded as a liability within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. Premiums received from written options which expire unexercised are treated as realized gains. Premiums received from writing options which are exercised or closed are added to the proceeds or offset against amounts paid on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss. In writing an option, the Portfolio bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

security or currency underlying the written option. Exercise of an option written by the Portfolio could result in the Portfolio selling or buying a security or currency at a price different from the current market value.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Swap agreements: Swap agreements are bilaterally negotiated agreements between the Portfolio and a counterparty to exchange or swap investments, cash flows, assets, foreign currencies, or market-linked returns at specified, future intervals. Swap agreements can be executed in a bilateral privately negotiated arrangement with a dealer in an OTC transaction or executed on a regular market. Certain swaps regardless of the venue of execution are required to be cleared through a clearinghouse (“centrally cleared swap agreements”). Centrally cleared swap agreements listed or traded on a multilateral platform, are valued at the daily settlement price determined by the corresponding exchange. For centrally cleared credit default swap agreements the clearing exchange requires all members to provide applicable levels across complete term levels. Centrally cleared interest rate swap agreements are valued using a pricing model that references the underlying rates including but not limited to the overnight index swap rate and London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) forward rate to calculate the daily settlement price. The Portfolio may enter into credit default, cross-currency, interest rate, total return, and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit, currency, interest rate, and commodity risks. In connection with these agreements, securities or cash may be identified as collateral or margin in accordance with the terms of the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Swap agreements are marked-to-market daily based upon values from third party vendors, which may include a registered exchange, or quotations from market makers to the extent available and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

For OTC swap agreements, payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are reflected as such within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represent payments made or received upon entering into the swap agreements to compensate for differences between the stated terms of the swap agreement and prevailing market conditions (credit spreads, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and other relevant factors). These upfront payments are recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations upon termination or maturity of the swap. A liquidation payment received or made at the termination of the swap is recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations. Net periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are included as part of Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations.

Credit default swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio enters into credit default swap agreements to manage its exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market to reduce its risk exposure to defaults of corporate and sovereign issuers, or to create exposure to corporate or sovereign issuers to which it is not otherwise exposed. Credit default swap agreements involve the exchange of a fixed rate premium for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security in the event of a defined credit event, such as payment default or bankruptcy (buy protection).

Under a credit default swap agreement, one party acts as a guarantor by receiving the fixed periodic payment in exchange for the commitment to purchase the underlying security at par if the defined credit event occurs (sell protection). The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the notional amount of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

The Portfolio sells credit default swap agreements, which exposes it to risk of loss from credit risk related events specified in the contracts. Although contract-specific, credit events are generally defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, restructuring, obligation acceleration, obligation default, or repudiation/moratorium. If a defined credit event had occurred during the period, the swap agreements’ credit-risk-related contingent features would have been triggered, and the Portfolio would have been required to pay the notional amounts for the credit default swap agreements with a sell protection less the value of the contracts’ related reference obligations.

Interest rate swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Because the Portfolio holds fixed rate bonds, the value of these bonds may decrease if interest rates rise. To help hedge against this risk, the Portfolio enters into interest rate swap agreements. Under an interest rate swap agreement, two parties will exchange cash flows based on a notional principal amount. A Portfolio with interest rate agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate, on a notional principal amount. The risks of interest rate swap agreements include changes in market conditions which will affect the value of the contract or the cash flows, and the possible inability

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

of the counterparty to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk is the discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from/paid to the counterparties over the contracts’ remaining lives, to the extent that amount is positive. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

Total return swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to commodity risk, equity risk, and other risks related to the underlying investments of the swap agreement in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The value of the commodity-linked investments held by a Portfolio can be affected by a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, overall market movements and other factors affecting the value of particular industries or commodities, such as weather, disease, embargoes, acts of war or terrorism, or political and regulatory developments. Commodity-linked derivatives are available from a relatively small number of issuers, subjecting the Portfolio’s investments in commodity-linked derivatives to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the commodity-linked derivative will not fulfill its contractual obligations. Total return swap agreements on commodities involve commitments whereby cash flows are exchanged based on the price of a commodity in exchange for either a fixed or floating price or rate. One party would receive payments based on the market value of the commodity involved and pay a fixed amount. Total return swap agreements on indices involve commitments to pay interest in exchange for a market-linked return. One counterparty pays out the total return of a specific reference entity, which may be an equity, index, or bond, and in return receives a regular stream of payments.

Open centrally cleared swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Centrally cleared swap agreements are marked-to-market daily and an appropriate payable or receivable for the variation margin is recorded, if applicable, and is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on centrally cleared swap agreements within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Open OTC swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. The value, as applicable, is shown in OTC swap agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    32


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $ 1,107,215     $     $ 2,572,240     $     $     $ 3,679,455  

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (A) (C)

    4,025,020                   202,051             4,227,071  

OTC swap agreements, at value

                      5,310             5,310  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (D)

    1,602,401                               1,602,401  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          139,010                         139,010  

Total

  $ 6,734,636     $ 139,010     $ 2,572,240     $ 207,361     $     $ 9,653,247  
                                                 

Liability Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Written options and swaptions, at value (A)

  $ (1,665,147   $     $     $ (852   $     $ (1,665,999

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (A) (C)

    (140,402                             (140,402

OTC swap agreements, at value

                (469,791     (337           (470,128

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (D)

    (481,188           (2,521,322                 (3,002,510

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          (46,331                       (46,331

Total

  $   (2,286,737   $   (46,331   $   (2,991,113   $   (1,189   $   —     $   (5,325,370
                                                 

 

(A) 

May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.

(B) 

Included within Investments, at value on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

(C) 

Included within Value of centrally cleared swap agreements as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

(D) 

Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $ 79,759     $     $ (336,579   $     $     $ (256,820

Written options and swaptions

    40,757       10,801                         51,558  

Swap agreements

    2,278,222             176,219       8,103             2,462,544  

Futures contracts

    (483,936           5,565,360                   5,081,424  

Forward foreign currency contracts (B)

          (637,620                       (637,620

Total

  $   1,914,802     $   (626,819   $   5,405,000     $   8,103     $     $   6,701,086  
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    33


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (C)

  $ 107,686     $     $ 339,445     $     $     $ 447,131  

Written options and swaptions

    (453,157     4,383             4,026             (444,748

Swap agreements

    472,606             (708,474     29,894             (205,974

Futures contracts

    976,126             (3,677,839                 (2,701,713

Forward foreign currency contracts (D)

          471,938                         471,938  

Total

  $   1,103,261     $   476,321     $   (4,046,868   $   33,920     $     $   (2,433,366
                                                 

 

(A) 

Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments on the Statement of Operations.

(B) 

Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.

(C) 

Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.

(D) 

Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options
and Swaptions
at value
  Written Options and
Swaptions at value
  Swap
Agreements
at Notional
Amount
  Futures Contracts at
Notional Amount
  Forward Foreign
Currency Contracts at
Contract Amount
Calls   Puts   Calls   Puts        Long   Short   Purchased   Sold
$  89,667   $  2,559,266   $  (136,044)   $  (1,063,444)   $  136,045,073   149,121,086   (259,600,000)   $  13,791,497   $  14,700,913

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    34


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
          Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
       
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Net Amount     Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
    Net Amount  
    Assets     Liabilities  

Bank of America, N.A.

  $ 17,800     $     $     $ 17,800     $     $     $     $  

BNP Paribas

                            334                   334  

Citibank N.A.

    51,291       (51,291                 457,945       (51,291     (406,654      

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

    9,011             (9,011                              

Deutsche Bank AG

                            226                   226  

Goldman Sachs Bank

    747,716       (747,716                 1,160,899       (747,716     (294,482     118,701  

Goldman Sachs International

    5,310       (337           4,973       337       (337            

HSBC Bank USA

    17,316       (7,478           9,838       7,478       (7,478            

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

    25,645       (12,066           13,579       12,066       (12,066            

Merrill Lynch International

                            42,212                   42,212  

Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc.

    349,726       (349,726                 463,773       (349,726           114,047  

Standard Chartered Bank

    14,971                   14,971                          

Other Derivatives (C)

    8,414,462                   8,414,462       3,180,100                   3,180,100  

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   9,653,248     $   (1,168,614   $   (9,011   $   8,475,623     $   5,325,370     $   (1,168,614   $   (701,136   $   3,455,620  

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A) 

Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

(B) 

In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.

(C) 

Other Derivatives, which includes future contracts, exchange-traded options and exchange-traded swap agreements, are not subject to a master netting arrangement or another similar arrangement. The amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    35


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $750 million

     0.79

Over $750 million up to $1.5 billion

     0.78  

Over $1.5 billion

     0.75  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.92    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.17      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    36


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

 

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government   Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  16,274,527   $  40,749,514   $  27,345,815   $  48,994,177

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  416,148,097   $  4,588,433   $  (11,573,569)   $  (6,985,136)

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    37


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    38


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica PIMCO Tactical — Conservative VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    39


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on September 17, 2012 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the median for its peer group and above the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    40


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Conservative VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    41


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   990.60     $   4.59     $   1,020.20     $   4.66       0.93

Service Class

    1,000.00       989.70       5.82       1,018.90       5.91       1.18  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     4.95  

Duration †

     2.18  
Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Repurchase Agreements

     84.7

U.S. Government Obligations

     19.2  

Corporate Debt Securities

     17.7  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

     9.4  

Asset-Backed Securities

     2.4  

Foreign Government Obligations

     2.2  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

     1.5  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

     1.5  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

     0.9  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.5  

Municipal Government Obligations

     0.3  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

     0.2  

Certificates of Deposit

     0.1  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

     0.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (40.7

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 2.4%  

Avery Point IV CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 04/25/2026 (B)

    $  250,000        $  250,031  

BlueMountain CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 3.25% (A), 10/29/2025 (B)

    163,218        163,215  

California Republic Auto Receivables Trust
Series 2018-1, Class A1,
2.45%, 07/15/2019

    200,000        200,007  

Carlyle Global Market Strategies CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-5A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.14%, 3.49% (A), 10/16/2025 (B)

    300,000        300,002  

Cent CLO 21, Ltd.
Series 2014-21A, Class A1BR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.21%, 3.58% (A), 07/27/2026 (B)

    600,000        600,022  

Colony Starwood Homes Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (A), 07/17/2033 (B)

    387,901        389,665  

Crown Point CLO, Ltd.
Series 2018-5A, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.94%, 0.00% (A), 07/17/2028 (B) (C) (D)

    400,000        400,000  

CVP Cascade CLO-1, Ltd.
Series 2013-CLO1, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 01/16/2026 (B)

    662,444        662,508  

Denali Capital CLO XI, Ltd.
Series 2015-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.51% (A), 04/20/2027 (B)

    300,000        300,041  

Dryden XXV Senior Loan Fund
Series 2012-25A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 10/15/2027 (B)

    500,000        499,712  

FFMLT Trust
Series 2005-FF2, Class M4,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 2.98% (A), 03/25/2035

    275,247        277,132  

Figueroa CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class A1RR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.92% (A), 06/20/2027 (B) (D)

    200,000        200,000  

Flagship CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-8A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.90% (A), 01/16/2026 (B) (D)

    300,000        302,130  

Flagship VII, Ltd.
Series 2013-7A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.12%, 3.48% (A), 01/20/2026 (B)

    428,489        428,492  

Ford Credit Auto Owner Trust
Series 2016-2, Class A,
2.03%, 12/15/2027 (B)

      700,000          677,805  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Halcyon Loan Advisors Funding, Ltd.
Series 2014-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 10/22/2025 (B)

    $   500,000        $   500,063  

KVK CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.50% (A), 01/15/2026 (B)

    206,192        206,214  

Loomis Sayles CLO II, Ltd.
Series 2015-2A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 04/15/2028 (B)

    600,000        599,230  

Morgan Stanley Home Equity Loan Trust
Series 2005-3, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.71%, 2.80% (A), 08/25/2035

    51,176        51,356  

Mountain View CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.90% (A), 10/15/2026 (B) (D)

    300,000        300,000  

Northstar Education Finance, Inc.
Series 2012-1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.79% (A), 12/26/2031 (B)

    45,889        46,075  

Oak Hill Credit Partners X, Ltd.
Series 2014-10A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.13%, 3.49% (A), 07/20/2026 (B)

    300,000        300,038  

Oaktree CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-2A, Class A1AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.22%, 3.58% (A), 10/20/2026 (B)

    600,000        600,107  

PHEAA Student Loan Trust
Series 2016-2A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.04% (A), 11/25/2065 (B)

    214,228        216,973  

Progress Residential Trust
Series 2016-SFR1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.59% (A), 09/17/2033 (B)

    296,456        296,908  

SMB Private Education Loan Trust

    

Series 2016-B, Class A2B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.45%, 3.52% (A), 02/17/2032 (B)

    563,950        576,169  

Series 2016-C, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.62% (A), 11/15/2023 (B)

    220,198        220,281  

Westlake Automobile Receivables Trust
Series 2016-3A, Class A2,
1.42%, 10/15/2019 (B)

    72,313        72,275  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $9,572,835)

 

     9,636,451  
    

 

 

 
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT - 0.1%  
Banks - 0.1%  

Barclays Bank PLC
1.94% (E), 09/04/2018

    500,000        500,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Certificate of Deposit
(Cost $500,000)

 

     500,000  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 17.7%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.0% (F)  

Northrop Grumman Corp.
2.93%, 01/15/2025

    $   100,000        $   94,936  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.4%  

American Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

3.00%, 04/15/2030

    189,409        177,884  

3.25%, 04/15/2030

    94,783        90,107  

British Airways Pass-Through Trust
3.80%, 03/20/2033 (B) (D)

    200,000        200,000  

Norwegian Air Shuttle Pass-Through Trust
4.88%, 11/10/2029 (B)

    650,192        619,308  

United Airlines Pass-Through Trust

    

2.88%, 04/07/2030

    292,071        270,341  

3.10%, 04/07/2030

    292,071        273,086  
    

 

 

 
       1,630,726  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.1%  

Delphi Corp.
4.15%, 03/15/2024

    240,000        240,632  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 4.7%  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.
4.40%, 05/19/2026 (B)

    800,000        784,237  

Bank of America Corp.

    

2.63%, 10/19/2020, MTN

    290,000        286,433  

Fixed until 12/20/2027, 3.42% (A), 12/20/2028

    1,578,000        1,485,962  

Bank of Montreal

    

1.75%, 06/15/2021 (B)

    500,000        480,899  

2.55%, 11/06/2022, MTN

    80,000        77,283  

Barclays PLC

    

3.65%, 03/16/2025

    300,000        280,990  

4.34%, 01/10/2028

    200,000        189,956  

BNP Paribas SA
3.38%, 01/09/2025 (B)

    500,000        472,341  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

2.05%, 12/07/2018

    510,000        509,023  

2.40%, 02/18/2020

    1,400,000        1,382,152  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.86%, 3.18% (A), 12/07/2018

    980,000        982,968  

4.40%, 06/10/2025

    750,000        745,903  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA
3.75%, 07/21/2026

    400,000        374,454  

Dexia Credit Local SA
1.88%, 09/15/2021 (B)

    800,000        770,875  

HSBC USA, Inc.

    

2.38%, 11/13/2019

    120,000        118,824  

2.75%, 08/07/2020

    500,000        495,399  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.61%, 2.97% (A), 11/13/2019

    240,000        241,085  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    

3.25%, 09/23/2022

    100,000        99,073  

3.90%, 07/15/2025

    50,000        49,812  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC
4.38%, 03/22/2028

    200,000        197,304  

Manufacturers & Traders Trust Co.
2.25%, 07/25/2019

    250,000        248,322  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 1.88%, 4.18% (A), 03/01/2021

    329,000        340,593  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

MUFG Americas Holdings Corp.
2.25%, 02/10/2020

    $   9,000        $   8,866  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.
1.38%, 07/12/2019

    1,300,000        1,280,727  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    

3.88%, 09/12/2023

    300,000        291,426  

Fixed until 05/18/2028,
4.89% (A), 05/18/2029

    300,000        298,665  

Fixed until 08/15/2021,
8.63% (A), 08/15/2021 (G)

    300,000        318,825  

Santander Holdings USA, Inc.
2.70%, 05/24/2019

    649,000        647,045  

Santander UK Group Holdings PLC

    

2.88%, 10/16/2020

    490,000        482,928  

3.13%, 01/08/2021

    60,000        59,168  

Santander UK PLC
2.38%, 03/16/2020

    1,000,000        984,836  

Sberbank of Russia Via SB Capital SA
5.18%, 06/28/2019 (H)

    200,000        202,700  

Stichting AK Rabobank Certificaten
6.50%, 12/29/2049 (G) (H)

    EUR  200,000        277,469  

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.
2.65%, 07/23/2020, MTN

    $  500,000        493,672  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.
2.63%, 07/14/2026 (I)

    100,000        91,115  

Swedbank AB
2.20%, 03/04/2020 (B)

    280,000        276,391  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    

2.55%, 12/07/2020, MTN

    50,000        49,210  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.74% (A), 09/14/2018

    700,000        700,557  

3.00%, 02/19/2025, MTN

    100,000        94,325  

Fixed until 05/22/2027,
3.58% (A), 05/22/2028, MTN

    200,000        191,625  

Westpac Banking Corp.
2.25%, 11/09/2020 (B)

    1,900,000        1,866,280  
    

 

 

 
       19,229,718  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.3%  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Finance, Inc.
3.30%, 02/01/2023

    850,000        842,893  

Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.
4.38%, 04/15/2038

    200,000        194,161  
    

 

 

 
       1,037,054  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.2%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    

2.90%, 11/06/2022

    710,000        688,963  

3.20%, 11/06/2022

    100,000        98,351  

Amgen, Inc.
4.50%, 03/15/2020

    200,000        204,678  
    

 

 

 
       991,992  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.1%  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.
4.00%, 06/15/2025

    250,000        250,676  

Masco Corp.
4.45%, 04/01/2025

    10,000        10,034  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Building Products (continued)  

Owens Corning

    

3.40%, 08/15/2026

    $   200,000        $   182,360  

4.20%, 12/01/2024

    10,000        9,866  
    

 

 

 
       452,936  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.2%  

Brighthouse Holdings LLC
6.50% (J), 07/27/2037 (B) (D) (G)

    100,000        98,000  

Charles Schwab Corp.
Fixed until 12/01/2027,
5.00% (A), 12/01/2027 (G)

    300,000        287,250  

Credit Suisse Group AG

    

Fixed until 01/12/2028,
3.87% (A), 01/12/2029 (B)

    250,000        235,082  

4.28%, 01/09/2028 (B)

    600,000        583,648  

Deutsche Bank AG
4.25%, 10/14/2021

    200,000        197,174  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3.75%, 05/22/2025

    40,000        38,999  

3.85%, 07/08/2024, MTN

    1,400,000        1,388,240  

InterContinental Exchange, Inc.
2.75%, 12/01/2020

    30,000        29,759  

Lazard Group LLC
3.75%, 02/13/2025

    19,000        18,400  

Morgan Stanley

    

Fixed until 04/24/2023, 3.74% (A), 04/24/2024

    200,000        198,800  

4.00%, 07/23/2025, MTN

    40,000        39,878  

5.50%, 07/24/2020, MTN

    1,200,000        1,253,569  

S&P Global, Inc.
4.40%, 02/15/2026

    30,000        30,759  

UBS AG
4.50%, 06/26/2048 (B) (D)

    300,000        305,869  
    

 

 

 
       4,705,427  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.1%  

ERAC USA Finance LLC

    

4.50%, 02/15/2045 (B)

    9,000        8,484  

7.00%, 10/15/2037 (B)

    100,000        124,970  

Republic Services, Inc.
3.55%, 06/01/2022

    300,000        301,918  
    

 

 

 
       435,372  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.4%  

American Express Credit Corp.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.49%, 2.83% (A), 08/15/2019, MTN

    400,000        401,385  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 3.14% (A), 11/05/2018, MTN

    120,000        120,237  

Daimler Finance North America LLC
1.50%, 07/05/2019 (B)

    700,000        689,808  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.

    

3.20%, 07/13/2020

    87,000        86,590  

3.70%, 11/24/2020

    510,000        512,777  

Hyundai Capital America
2.50%, 03/18/2019 (B)

    300,000        298,616  

Synchrony Financial

    

2.60%, 01/15/2019

    510,000        509,020  

2.70%, 02/03/2020

    9,000        8,905  

4.50%, 07/23/2025

    500,000        491,055  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Consumer Finance (continued)  

Toyota Motor Credit Corp.
1.40%, 05/20/2019, MTN

    $   600,000        $   593,484  

Volkswagen Group of America Finance LLC
2.13%, 05/23/2019 (B)

    1,800,000        1,785,321  
    

 

 

 
       5,497,198  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.1%  

Nationwide Building Society
3.90%, 07/21/2025 (B)

    300,000        297,232  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.4%  

BRFkredit A/S
1.00%, 10/01/2018, MTN

    DKK  2,800,000        440,157  

Helios Leasing I LLC
1.56%, 09/28/2024

    $  54,544        51,888  

ORIX Corp.
3.25%, 12/04/2024

    300,000        286,634  

Protective Life Global Funding
2.70%, 11/25/2020 (B)

    510,000        503,173  

Tagua Leasing LLC
1.58%, 11/16/2024

    56,684        54,084  

Voya Financial, Inc.
Fixed until 01/23/2028,
4.70% (A), 01/23/2048 (B)

    200,000        178,000  
    

 

 

 
       1,513,936  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.6%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 3.26% (A), 06/30/2020

    100,000        101,117  

3.40%, 05/15/2025

    720,000        675,172  

5.25%, 03/01/2037

    300,000        295,066  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    

3.38%, 02/15/2025

    697,000        667,221  

4.52%, 09/15/2048

    300,000        273,513  

4.67%, 03/15/2055

    475,000        421,865  
    

 

 

 
       2,433,954  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 1.0%  

AEP Texas, Inc.
3.95%, 06/01/2028 (B) (D)

    300,000        299,056  

Appalachian Power Co.
3.40%, 06/01/2025

    370,000        364,260  

Duke Energy Corp.

    

3.75%, 04/15/2024

    100,000        99,787  

3.95%, 10/15/2023

    200,000        202,252  

4.80%, 12/15/2045

    510,000        533,515  

Duke Energy Florida LLC
3.80%, 07/15/2028

    300,000        301,624  

Electricite de France SA
3.63%, 10/13/2025 (B)

    500,000        489,509  

Entergy Mississippi, Inc.
2.85%, 06/01/2028

    700,000        641,698  

IPALCO Enterprises, Inc.
3.70%, 09/01/2024

    200,000        193,932  

Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.
4.12%, 11/28/2042 (B)

    100,000        97,385  

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

    

2.45%, 08/15/2022

    500,000        463,776  

3.50%, 06/15/2025

    10,000        9,329  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Electric Utilities (continued)  

Southwestern Electric Power Co.
6.20%, 03/15/2040

    $   400,000        $   494,580  
    

 

 

 
       4,190,703  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.0% (F)  

Schneider Electric SE
2.95%, 09/27/2022 (B)

    75,000        73,635  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.1%  

Arrow Electronics, Inc.
3.25%, 09/08/2024

    200,000        186,962  

Flex, Ltd.
4.75%, 06/15/2025

    10,000        10,096  
    

 

 

 
       197,058  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.1%  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP / Regency Energy Finance Corp.
5.88%, 03/01/2022

    255,000        269,688  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.4%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

    

3.95%, 01/15/2027

    100,000        96,539  

4.30%, 01/15/2026

    550,000        550,291  

4.50%, 07/30/2029

    200,000        199,278  

American Tower Corp.

    

3.38%, 10/15/2026

    400,000        370,233  

4.00%, 06/01/2025

    760,000        745,175  

4.40%, 02/15/2026

    400,000        397,135  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
3.45%, 06/01/2025, MTN

    360,000        350,918  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    

4.45%, 02/15/2026

    120,000        118,787  

5.25%, 01/15/2023

    600,000        628,703  

Digital Realty Trust, LP
3.95%, 07/01/2022

    500,000        505,110  

Federal Realty Investment Trust
3.63%, 08/01/2046

    100,000        86,870  

Kilroy Realty, LP
4.38%, 10/01/2025

    350,000        350,486  

Mid-America Apartments, LP
4.00%, 11/15/2025

    350,000        346,870  

Prologis, LP
3.75%, 11/01/2025

    10,000        9,986  

Unibail-Rodamco SE
3-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 3.12% (A), 04/16/2019, MTN (H)

    500,000        501,778  

WP Carey, Inc.
4.60%, 04/01/2024

    300,000        303,133  
    

 

 

 
       5,561,292  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 0.1%  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.

    

3.50%, 07/15/2022

    10,000        9,884  

4.38%, 06/01/2046

    250,000        216,276  

Mead Johnson Nutrition Co.
4.60%, 06/01/2044 (I)

    100,000        104,260  
    

 

 

 
       330,420  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.2%  

ONE Gas, Inc.
2.07%, 02/01/2019

    700,000        697,546  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Gas Utilities (continued)  

Southern California Gas Co.
4.13%, 06/01/2048

    $   300,000        $   300,606  
    

 

 

 
       998,152  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.2%  

Boston Scientific Corp.
3.38%, 05/15/2022

    370,000        365,013  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    

2.70%, 04/01/2020

    510,000        505,056  

3.15%, 04/01/2022

    20,000        19,634  

3.55%, 04/01/2025

    20,000        19,038  
    

 

 

 
       908,741  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.2%  

Aetna, Inc.
3.50%, 11/15/2024

    10,000        9,714  

AHS Hospital Corp.
5.02%, 07/01/2045

    200,000        227,619  

CVS Health Corp.

    

4.10%, 03/25/2025

    50,000        49,735  

4.30%, 03/25/2028

    150,000        147,961  

4.78%, 03/25/2038

    50,000        49,179  

5.05%, 03/25/2048

    50,000        50,885  

Hackensack Meridian Health, Inc.
4.50%, 07/01/2057

    100,000        104,388  

Humana, Inc.
4.80%, 03/15/2047

    100,000        102,730  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings
3.60%, 02/01/2025

    9,000        8,789  

Northwell Healthcare, Inc.
3.98%, 11/01/2046

    200,000        183,657  
    

 

 

 
       934,657  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.0% (F)  

Exelon Generation Co. LLC
6.25%, 10/01/2039

    100,000        105,862  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.9%  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc.
4.70%, 06/22/2047

    200,000        164,827  

Chubb INA Holdings, Inc.
3.35%, 05/03/2026

    20,000        19,391  

First American Financial Corp.
4.60%, 11/15/2024

    10,000        10,097  

Great-West Lifeco Finance, LP
4.05%, 05/17/2028 (B)

    100,000        100,786  

Jackson National Life Global Funding
2.60%, 12/09/2020 (B)

    510,000        502,029  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.
3.75%, 03/14/2026

    10,000        9,902  

Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 04/26/2028,
5.10% (A), 04/26/2048 (B) (I)

    400,000        403,500  

MetLife, Inc.
4.05%, 03/01/2045

    10,000        9,287  

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I

    

2.00%, 04/14/2020 (B)

    150,000        146,888  

2.30%, 04/10/2019 (B)

    300,000        299,001  

Pacific Life Insurance Co.
Fixed until 10/24/2047,
4.30% (A), 10/24/2067 (B)

    600,000        544,764  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance (continued)  

Pricoa Global Funding I
2.55%, 11/24/2020 (B)

    $   510,000        $   502,267  

Principal Life Global Funding II

    

2.20%, 04/08/2020 (B)

    300,000        295,269  

3.00%, 04/18/2026 (B)

    200,000        187,499  

Reliance Standard Life Global Funding II

    

2.15%, 10/15/2018 (B)

    60,000        59,911  

2.50%, 04/24/2019 (B)

    100,000        99,638  

Teachers Insurance & Annuity Association of America
4.27%, 05/15/2047 (B)

    400,000        382,533  

Travelers Cos., Inc.
3.75%, 05/15/2046

    100,000        91,633  

XLIT, Ltd.
4.45%, 03/31/2025

    10,000        9,839  
    

 

 

 
       3,839,061  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.1%  

Amazon.com, Inc.

    

2.50%, 11/29/2022

    100,000        97,050  

5.20%, 12/03/2025

    410,000        450,719  
    

 

 

 
       547,769  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.1%  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.
4.50%, 10/15/2022

    242,000        249,678  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.1%  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    

3.15%, 01/15/2023

    490,000        479,169  

3.30%, 02/15/2022

    20,000        19,883  
    

 

 

 
       499,052  
    

 

 

 
Marine - 0.0% (F)  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S
3.88%, 09/28/2025 (B)

    200,000        193,240  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.5%  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital

    

4.20%, 03/15/2028 (I)

    300,000        280,854  

4.46%, 07/23/2022

    600,000        607,372  

5.38%, 05/01/2047

    300,000        272,429  

Comcast Corp.

    

4.40%, 08/15/2035

    10,000        9,730  

4.75%, 03/01/2044

    800,000        787,636  

Discovery Communications LLC
5.00%, 09/20/2037

    200,000        192,570  

Sky PLC
3.13%, 11/26/2022 (B)

    40,000        39,198  
    

 

 

 
       2,189,789  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.2%  

DTE Electric Co.
3.70%, 06/01/2046 (I)

    600,000        571,558  

E.ON International Finance BV
6.65%, 04/30/2038 (B)

    240,000        294,543  

Sempra Energy
2.88%, 10/01/2022

    75,000        72,669  
    

 

 

 
       938,770  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.8%  

APT Pipelines, Ltd.
4.25%, 07/15/2027 (B)

    $   200,000        $   196,002  

Concho Resources, Inc.
3.75%, 10/01/2027

    200,000        192,389  

Dolphin Energy, Ltd. LLC
5.50%, 12/15/2021 (H) (I)

    200,000        210,500  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP

    

4.05%, 03/15/2025

    100,000        96,622  

4.75%, 01/15/2026

    400,000        396,598  

7.50%, 07/01/2038

    50,000        57,066  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC
3.70%, 02/15/2026

    520,000        508,107  

Petroleos Mexicanos
6.00%, 03/05/2020

    64,000        66,080  

Sabine Pass Liquefaction LLC
5.75%, 05/15/2024

    600,000        639,993  

Shell International Finance BV
4.00%, 05/10/2046

    200,000        193,699  

TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd.
7.63%, 01/15/2039

    200,000        261,281  

TransCanada Trust
Fixed until 03/15/2027,
5.30% (A), 03/15/2077

    100,000        94,552  

Woodside Finance, Ltd.

    

3.65%, 03/05/2025 (B)

    10,000        9,745  

3.70%, 03/15/2028 (B) (I)

    300,000        283,516  
    

 

 

 
       3,206,150  
    

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products - 0.1%  

Georgia-Pacific LLC
5.40%, 11/01/2020 (B)

    220,000        230,461  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.6%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.85%, 06/15/2024

    700,000        687,399  

Baxalta, Inc.
3.60%, 06/23/2022

    10,000        9,897  

Bayer US Finance II LLC
4.63%, 06/25/2038 (B)

    600,000        594,820  

ELI Lilly & Co.
3.10%, 05/15/2027

    200,000        191,441  

EMD Finance LLC
2.40%, 03/19/2020 (B)

    250,000        246,521  

Johnson & Johnson
3.63%, 03/03/2037

    300,000        293,161  

Mylan, Inc.
4.55%, 04/15/2028 (B)

    100,000        97,726  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC

    

2.88%, 09/23/2023

    100,000        94,079  

3.20%, 09/23/2026

    200,000        183,278  
    

 

 

 
       2,398,322  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.2%  

Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC

    

4.13%, 06/15/2047

    400,000        391,230  

5.15%, 09/01/2043

    100,000        110,833  

Kansas City Southern
4.95%, 08/15/2045

    300,000        301,634  

Union Pacific Corp.
4.10%, 09/15/2067

    100,000        87,737  
    

 

 

 
       891,434  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.1%  

Intel Corp.
4.10%, 05/11/2047

    $   300,000        $   299,141  
    

 

 

 
Software - 0.3%  

Autodesk, Inc.
4.38%, 06/15/2025

    20,000        20,140  

Microsoft Corp.
4.10%, 02/06/2037

    300,000        312,563  

Oracle Corp.
2.95%, 05/15/2025

    760,000        725,540  
    

 

 

 
       1,058,243  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 0.0% (F)  

QVC, Inc.

    

4.45%, 02/15/2025

    100,000        96,648  

4.85%, 04/01/2024

    100,000        99,248  
    

 

 

 
       195,896  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.4%  

Apple, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.66% (A), 05/06/2019

    300,000        300,727  

2.90%, 09/12/2027

    200,000        187,748  

3.20%, 05/11/2027

    100,000        96,447  

3.35%, 02/09/2027

    200,000        195,299  

3.75%, 09/12/2047

    100,000        93,722  

4.65%, 02/23/2046

    100,000        107,730  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.
8.10%, 07/15/2036 (B)

    400,000        469,664  
    

 

 

 
       1,451,337  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.1%  

BAT Capital Corp.
4.39%, 08/15/2037 (B)

    500,000        469,071  

BAT International Finance PLC
3.50%, 06/15/2022 (B)

    10,000        9,905  

Reynolds American, Inc.

    

4.00%, 06/12/2022

    10,000        10,062  

4.85%, 09/15/2023

    100,000        103,944  
    

 

 

 
       592,982  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.0% (F)  

GATX Corp.
3.25%, 09/15/2026

    150,000        138,492  
    

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure - 0.1%  

Penske Truck Leasing Co., LP / PTL Finance Corp.
3.95%, 03/10/2025 (B)

    200,000        197,668  

Sydney Airport Finance Co. Pty, Ltd.

    

3.38%, 04/30/2025 (B)

    10,000        9,566  

3.90%, 03/22/2023 (B)

    100,000        99,431  
    

 

 

 
       306,665  
    

 

 

 
Water Utilities - 0.1%  

American Water Capital Corp.
3.40%, 03/01/2025

    260,000        256,461  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.1%  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC

    

4.74%, 03/20/2025 (B)

    200,000        198,460  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Wireless Telecommunication Services (continued)  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC (continued)

 

5.15%, 09/20/2029 (B)

    $   200,000        $   196,000  
    

 

 

 
       394,460  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $73,586,789)

 

     72,008,724  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 2.2%  
Canada - 0.3%  

Province of Ontario
1.65%, 09/27/2019

    600,000        592,770  

Province of Quebec
2.50%, 04/20/2026

    600,000        570,625  
    

 

 

 
       1,163,395  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 0.6%  

Japan Finance Organization for Municipalities
2.13%, 04/13/2021 - 10/25/2023 (B)

    2,000,000        1,916,547  

Tokyo Metropolitan Government
2.00%, 05/17/2021 (B)

    900,000        869,072  
    

 

 

 
       2,785,619  
    

 

 

 
Kuwait - 0.1%  

Kuwait International Government Bond
3.50%, 03/20/2027 (B)

    300,000        292,026  
    

 

 

 
Qatar - 0.5%  

Qatar Government International Bond

    

2.38%, 06/02/2021 (H)

    1,600,000        1,544,160  

4.50%, 01/20/2022 (H)

    200,000        204,650  

5.10%, 04/23/2048 (B)

    250,000        249,240  
    

 

 

 
       1,998,050  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.2%  

Export-Import Bank of Korea

    

1.93%, 02/24/2020 (B) (D)

    CAD  300,000        224,966  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 3.02% (A), 05/26/2019

    $  600,000        600,702  
    

 

 

 
       825,668  
    

 

 

 
Saudi Arabia - 0.4%  

Saudi Arabia Government International Bond

    

3.63%, 03/04/2028 (B)

    1,600,000        1,521,408  

4.63%, 10/04/2047 (B) (I)

    200,000        186,436  
    

 

 

 
       1,707,844  
    

 

 

 
United Arab Emirates - 0.1%  

Abu Dhabi Government International Bond
3.13%, 10/11/2027 (B)

    300,000        279,180  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $9,349,719)

 

     9,051,782  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 1.5%  

Aggregator of Loans Backed by Assets PLC
Series 2015-1, Class A,
1-Month GBP LIBOR + 1.25%,
1.75% (A), 04/24/2049 (H)

    GBP  125,204        166,294  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Bear Stearns Alt-A Trust
Series 2005-5, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.44%, 2.53% (A), 07/25/2035

    $  16,112        $   16,173  

BX Trust
Series 2017-APPL, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.88%, 2.95% (A), 07/15/2034 (B)

    904,373        904,372  

COMM Mortgage Trust
Series 2018-HOME, Class A,
3.82% (A), 04/10/2033 (B)

    300,000        301,730  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp.
Series 2004-AR7, Class 2A1,
4.01% (A), 11/25/2034

    59,645        60,845  

DBUBS Mortgage Trust
Series 2017-BRBK, Class A,
3.45%, 10/10/2034 (B)

    600,000        595,804  

Eurosail PLC
Series 2006-4X, Class A3C,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.16%, 0.78% (A), 12/10/2044 (H)

    GBP  89,461        116,996  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
3.21% (A), 04/25/2028

    $  600,000        588,993  

Gemgarto PLC
Series 2015-1, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.95%, 1.58% (A), 02/16/2047 (H)

    GBP  4,145        5,472  

Independence Plaza Trust
Series 2018-INDP, Class A,
3.76%, 07/10/2035 (B) (D)

    $  400,000        400,797  

La Hipotecaria El Salvadorian Mortgage Trust
Series 2016-1A, Class A,
3.36%, 01/15/2046 (B) (K)

    352,374        344,541  

MASTR Alternative Loan Trust
Series 2003-9, Class 4A1,
5.25%, 11/25/2033

    161,657        166,970  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust
Series 2003-B, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.77% (A), 04/25/2028

    198,990        191,720  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust
Series 2015-C25, Class A4,
3.37%, 10/15/2048

    500,000        492,007  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust, Interest Only STRIPS
Series 2013-C8, Class XA,
1.13% (A), 12/15/2048

    733,630        27,044  

MortgageIT Trust
Series 2005-2, Class 1A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.52%, 2.61% (A), 05/25/2035

    44,251        44,364  

Southern Pacific Financing PLC
Series 2005-B, Class A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.18%, 0.80% (A), 06/10/2043 (H)

    GBP  428,511        561,251  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Uropa Securities PLC

    

Series 2008-1, Class A,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.20%, 0.82% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    $   264,401        $   339,968  

Series 2008-1, Class B,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.75%, 1.37% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    51,002        63,466  

Series 2008-1, Class M1,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.35%, 0.97% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    60,717        76,429  

Series 2008-1, Class M2,

    

3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.55%, 1.17% (A), 06/10/2059 (H)

    47,764        60,349  

WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust
Series 2005-AR4, Class A5,
3.71% (A), 04/25/2035

    $38,936        39,530  

Worldwide Plaza Trust
Series 2017-WWP, Class A,
3.53%, 11/10/2036 (B)

    500,000        488,956  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $6,138,955)

 

     6,054,071  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.3%  
California - 0.1%  

Bay Area Toll Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series S1,
6.92%, 04/01/2040

    100,000        137,807  

Los Angeles Community College District, General Obligation Unlimited,
6.60%, 08/01/2042

    100,000        139,739  

State of California, General Obligation Unlimited,
7.35%, 11/01/2039

    150,000        213,521  
    

 

 

 
       491,067  
    

 

 

 
Illinois - 0.1%  

City of Chicago, General Obligation Unlimited,
Series B,
7.05%, 01/01/2029

    200,000        217,060  
    

 

 

 
Maryland - 0.0% (F)  

County of Baltimore, General Obligation Unlimited,
3.30%, 07/01/2046

    100,000        91,151  
    

 

 

 
Michigan - 0.0% (F)  

Michigan Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.31%, 06/01/2034

    95,000        97,009  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.1%  

Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Revenue Bonds,
4.46%, 10/01/2062

    100,000        106,207  
    

 

 

 
Utah - 0.0% (F)  

Utah State Board of Regents, Revenue Bonds,
Series 1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (A), 12/26/2031

    52,332        52,361  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
West Virginia - 0.0% (F)  

Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.47%, 06/01/2047

    $   100,000        $   99,649  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $1,113,326)

 

     1,154,504  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 9.4%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

1.25%, 10/02/2019 (L)

    7,525,000        7,410,665  

2.38%, 01/13/2022

    4,500,000        4,440,933  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Multifamily Structured Pass-Through Certificates
1-Month LIBOR + 0.67%, 2.67% (A), 02/25/2023

    763,388        765,542  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.26% (A), 01/15/2038

    579,815        579,236  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (A), 02/15/2041 - 09/15/2045

    1,033,764        1,039,814  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS
1.40% (A), 01/15/2038

    579,815        24,539  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Interest Only STRIPS
(1.00) * 1-Month LIBOR + 5.89%, 3.82% (A), 09/15/2043

    636,898        107,112  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

3.50%, 06/01/2045

    309,385        308,856  

3.50%, TBA (C)

    16,500,000        16,407,384  

3.70%, 09/01/2034

    281,758        282,913  

4.50%, 03/01/2039 - 02/01/2041

    261,522        275,015  

4.50%, TBA (C)

    1,000,000        1,039,384  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.57%, 2.66% (A), 06/25/2041

    866,972        876,421  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.84% (A), 05/25/2040

    718,197        726,875  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.94% (A), 11/25/2039

    2,334,186        2,392,299  

Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Interest Only STRIPS
3.00%, 03/25/2028

    363,069        34,123  

Government National Mortgage Association
1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.72% (A), 05/20/2066 - 06/20/2066

    1,452,838        1,473,776  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $38,027,564)

 

     38,184,887  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 19.2%  
U.S. Treasury - 19.0%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.75%, 08/15/2047

    400,000        381,703  

2.88%, 11/15/2046 (L)

    1,200,000        1,174,922  

3.00%, 02/15/2048 (L)

    3,100,000        3,110,414  

3.13%, 05/15/2048 (L)

    700,000        719,441  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Bond (continued)

    

4.25%, 05/15/2039 (L)

    $   2,300,000        $   2,774,465  

4.38%, 11/15/2039 (L)

    2,300,000        2,824,867  

4.50%, 08/15/2039 (L)

    9,860,000        12,294,573  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.25%, 04/30/2019 (L) (M)

    4,000,000        3,964,844  

1.63%, 05/31/2023 (L)

    330,000        313,294  

1.88%, 03/31/2022 - 07/31/2022 (L)

      13,700,000        13,303,371  

2.00%, 12/31/2021 (L)

    1,900,000        1,857,844  

2.13%, 12/31/2022 (L)

    600,000        584,930  

2.25%, 02/15/2027 - 11/15/2027 (L)

    28,150,000        26,837,950  

2.38%, 05/15/2027 (C) (L)

    3,200,000        3,081,625  

2.75%, 04/30/2023 - 05/31/2023 (L)

    1,900,000        1,902,129  

2.88%, 05/15/2028 (L)

    2,200,000        2,204,383  
    

 

 

 
       77,330,755  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.2%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond
1.00%, 02/15/2046 (L)

    739,984        762,115  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $79,902,139)

 

     78,092,870  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.1%  
Greece - 0.1%  

Hellenic Republic Treasury Bill

    

1.08% (E), 10/05/2018

    EUR  100,000        116,493  

1.27% (E), 03/15/2019

    200,000        231,880  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $367,605)

 

     348,373  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.9%  

U.S. Treasury Bill

    

1.83% (E), 08/02/2018 (N) (O)

    $  230,000        229,620  

1.84% (E), 08/02/2018

    221,000        220,633  

1.85% (E), 08/02/2018

    1,052,000        1,050,240  

1.87% (E), 08/02/2018

    989,000        987,338  

1.92% (E), 09/27/2018 (O)

    408,000        406,101  

1.93% (E), 09/13/2018 (O)

    159,000        158,374  

1.96% (E), 10/04/2018 (O)

    762,000        758,099  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $3,810,405)

 

     3,810,405  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  

SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.5%

 

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (E)

    1,825,672        1,825,672  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $1,825,672)

 

     1,825,672  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  

REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 84.7%

 

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $10,095,522 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $10,299,225.

    $  10,094,765        10,094,765  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  

REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)

 

HSBC Bank PLC, 2.07% (E), dated 06/27/2018 - 06/28/2018, to be repurchased at $105,044,275 on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.13% - 3.00%, due 01/15/2019 - 05/15/2047, and Cash with a total value of $107,919,050.

    $   105,000,000        $  105,000,000  

HSBC Bank PLC, 2.26% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $58,010,923 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligation, 2.88%, due 04/30/2025, and Cash with a total value of $59,712,045.

    58,000,000        58,000,000  

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 2.10% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $100,005,833 on 07/03/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.63%, due 02/15/2044, and with a value of $102,078,144.

    100,000,000        100,000,000  

RBC Capital Markets LLC, 2.22% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $71,013,135 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.38%, due 02/28/2019, and with a value of $72,553,410.

    71,000,000        71,000,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $344,094,765)

 

     344,094,765  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options/Swaptions (Cost $568,289,774)

 

     564,762,504  

Total Purchased Options/Swaptions - 1.7%
(Cost $5,773,050)

 

     6,741,618  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $574,062,824)

 

     571,504,122  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (40.7)%

 

     (165,347,825
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  406,156,297  
    

 

 

 
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - (13.4)%  

Bank of Nova Scotia, 1.96% (E), dated 05/02/2018, to be repurchased at $(16,879,047) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 1.88% - 2.25%, due 03/31/2022 - 08/15/2027, and with a total value of $(16,986,342).

    $  (16,815,875      $  (16,815,875

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., 2.10% (E), dated 06/27/2018, to be repurchased at $(3,769,826) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.25%, due 04/30/2019, and with a value of $(3,775,198).

    (3,766,750      (3,766,750
     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., 2.18% (E), dated 06/28/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,833,527) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.88% - 3.13%, due 05/15/2028 - 05/15/2048, and with a total value of $(1,828,739).

    $   (1,832,750      $  (1,832,750

JPMorgan Securities LLC, 1.87% (E), dated 06/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(3,027,524) on 07/24/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.00%, due 02/15/2048, and with a value of $(3,146,019).

    (3,022,500      (3,022,500

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 1.99% (E), dated 05/09/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,839,784) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.38%, due 05/15/2027, and with a value of $(1,835,775).

    (1,833,500      (1,833,500

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 2.10% (E), dated 06/21/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,099,522) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.88%, due 05/15/2028, and with a value of $(1,106,381).

    (1,098,625      (1,098,625

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.06% (E), dated 05/21/2018, to be repurchased at $(11,729,132) on 07/23/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligation, 2.25%, 02/15/2027, and Cash with a total value of $(11,661,337).

    (11,687,000      (11,687,000

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.07% (E), dated 05/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(5,014,689) on 07/23/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and Cash with a total value of $(5,064,127).

    (4,996,875      (4,996,875

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.08% (E), dated 05/24/2018, to be repurchased at $(948,601) on 07/06/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligation, 2.25%, due 02/15/2027, and Cash with a total value of $(940,341).

    (946,250      (946,250

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.15% (E), dated 06/11/2018, to be repurchased at $(2,958,040) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligation, 2.25%, due 02/15/2027, and Cash with a total value of $(2,914,596).

    (2,952,750      (2,952,750
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.03% (E), dated 05/11/2018, to be repurchased at $(3,680,366) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.13% - 4.50%, due 12/31/2022 - 08/15/2039, and a total value of $(3,745,524).

    $   (3,667,750      $   (3,667,750
     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.05% (E), dated 05/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(1,953,325) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligation, 4.50%, due 08/15/2039, and with a value of $(2,022,706).

    $   (1,948,000      $   (1,948,000
    

 

 

 

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $54,568,625)

 

     $  (54,568,625
    

 

 

 
 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD       121.00       07/27/2018       USD       5,047,980       42     $ 9,909     $ 7,875  

Put - S&P 500®

    USD       2,325.00       06/21/2019       USD       262,050,868       964       5,210,938       6,092,480  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

          $   5,220,847     $   6,100,355  
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate Index     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    CSS       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       1.85     11/30/2018       USD       15,200,000     $ 21,934     $ 1,126  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    CITI       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.00       12/19/2018       USD       15,200,000       33,674       1,305  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.15       01/31/2019       USD       17,500,000       18,375       4,378  

Call - Pays Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       3.04       06/22/2020       USD       56,000,000       202,720       217,366  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Pay       2.30       10/21/2019       USD       2,900,000       275,500       417,088  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                $   552,203     $   641,263  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD       120.00       07/27/2018       USD       5,047,980       42     $   (23,560   $   (22,969

OVER-THE-COUNTER CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    JPM       Pay       0.73     07/18/2018       USD       200,000     $ (185   $ (82

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    BNP       Pay       0.75       07/18/2018       USD       600,000       (570     (200

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    CITI       Pay       0.85       07/18/2018       USD       400,000       (412     (85

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    DUB       Pay       0.95       07/18/2018       USD       1,100,000       (1,829     (146
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   (2,996   $   (513
             

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate Index     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Call - 1-Year

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       3.02     06/21/2021       USD       56,000,000     $ (263,200   $ (288,249

Call - 10-Year

    CITI       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.19       12/19/2018       USD       3,200,000       (33,731     (3,289

Call - 10-Year

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Receive       2.21       01/31/2019       USD       3,500,000       (18,375     (5,820

Put - 5-Year

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR       Pay       2.00       10/21/2019       USD       14,500,000       (275,500     (653,443
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                $   (590,806   $   (950,801
               

 

 

   

 

 

 
                                               Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS AND SWAPTIONS

 

  $   (617,362   $   (974,283

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (P)  
Reference Obligation   Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (Q)
    Value (R)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 28

    1.00%       Quarterly       06/20/2022       USD       700,000     $ 11,727     $ 12,077     $ (350

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    1.00       Quarterly       06/20/2023       USD       1,200,000       18,086       19,619       (1,533
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

            $   29,813     $   31,696     $   (1,883
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Swap Agreements  
Floating Rate Index   Pay/Receive
Fixed Rate
    Fixed
Rate
    Payment
Frequency
  Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       1.50   Semi-Annually/Quarterly     06/21/2027       USD       5,300,000     $ 612,172     $ 357,991     $ 254,181  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       1.75     Semi-Annually/Quarterly     12/21/2026       USD       200,000       18,040       8,619       9,421  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Receive       2.25     Semi-Annually/Quarterly     12/16/2022       USD       200,000       (5,416     1,358       (6,774

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       2.25     Semi-Annually/Quarterly     06/20/2028       USD       27,200,000       1,608,761       1,656,105       (47,344

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       2.50     Semi-Annually/Quarterly     12/20/2027       USD       900,000       34,068       20,189       13,879  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

    Pay       2.75     Semi-Annually/Quarterly     12/20/2047       USD       1,300,000       60,466       (45,228     105,694  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

    Receive       2.04     Semi-Annually/Annually     02/03/2037       EUR       1,800,000       10,675       (19,967     30,642  

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

    Pay       1.50     Semi-Annually     09/19/2028       GBP       3,300,000       20,611       73,803       (53,192

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

    Pay       2.04     Semi-Annually     02/01/2037       GBP       1,600,000       (41,318     (40,820     (498

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

    Pay       0.75     Semi-Annually     03/20/2038       JPY       180,000,000       (32,260     24,554       (56,814
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   2,285,799     $   2,036,604     $   249,195  
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (P)  
Reference Obligation   Counterparty     Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (Q)
    Value (R)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America CMBS Basket Index - Series AAA8

    GSI       0.50     Monthly       10/17/2057       USD        900,000     $ 2,811     $ (39,286   $ 42,097  

North America CMBS Basket Index - Series AAA9

    GSI       0.50       Monthly       09/17/2058       USD        600,000       (225     (36,163     35,938  
              

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

 

    $   2,586     $   (75,449   $   78,035  
              

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS (continued):

 

Total Return Swap Agreements (S)  
Reference Entity   Counterparty     Pay/
Receive
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
     Number of
Shares or
Units
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    MLI       Receive       Quarterly       08/22/2018       USD       5,416,317        902     $ (75,135   $ (436   $ (74,699

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF

    CITI       Receive       Quarterly       05/23/2019       USD       57,355,159        9,363       (1,950,674           (1,950,674
                

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

          $   (2,025,809   $   (436   $   (2,025,373
                

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

     Value  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Assets)

  $   2,811  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Liabilities)

  $   (2,026,034

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description    Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

90-Day Eurodollar

     Long        112        09/17/2018      $ 27,308,702      $ 27,312,600      $ 3,898      $  

90-Day Eurodollar

     Long        85        12/17/2018        20,758,171        20,689,000               (69,171

90-Day Eurodollar

     Long        159        03/18/2019        38,802,166        38,652,900               (149,266

90-Day Eurodollar

     Short        (122      06/17/2019        (29,811,001      (29,629,225      181,776         

90-Day Eurodollar

     Short        (73      09/16/2019        (17,829,265      (17,717,100      112,165         

90-Day Eurodollar

     Short        (267      12/16/2019        (65,127,141      (64,770,863      356,278         

90-Day Eurodollar

     Short        (159      03/16/2020        (38,724,246      (38,565,444      158,802         

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Long        10        09/28/2018        1,134,075        1,136,172        2,097         

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

     Short        (44      09/19/2018        (5,239,036      (5,288,250             (49,214

Euro OAT Index

     Short        (11      09/06/2018        (1,962,570      (1,985,190             (22,620

German Euro Bund Index

     Short        (4      09/06/2018        (756,100      (759,304             (3,204

Russell 2000® Mini Index

     Long        246        09/21/2018        20,637,694        20,264,250               (373,444

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

     Long        1,780        09/21/2018        247,435,701        242,222,400               (5,213,301

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Long        30        09/19/2018        4,407,815        4,481,063        73,248         
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                  $   888,264      $   (5,880,220
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS:                  
Counterparty      Settlement
Date
     Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BOA

       08/24/2018        USD        617,000        RUB        38,284,850      $ 10,994      $  

CITI

       07/02/2018        USD        118,930        DKK        715,000        6,844         

CITI

       07/10/2018        RUB        114,661,725        USD        1,813,155        10,698         

CITI

       08/15/2018        JPY        131,461,529        USD        1,206,401               (15,271

CITI

       03/15/2019        USD        254,645        EUR        200,000        16,161         

CSS

       10/05/2018        USD        124,750        EUR        100,000        7,107         

GSB

       07/03/2018        USD        318,919        EUR        273,000        43         

GSB

       07/03/2018        USD        1,553,684        GBP        1,165,000        15,975         

GSB

       08/08/2018        ZAR        4,900,000        USD        354,761        652         

GSB

       08/08/2018        USD        208,331        ZAR        2,890,000               (1,290

GSB

       08/24/2018        USD        285,000        RUB        17,858,100        2,326         

HSBC

       07/10/2018        USD        1,819,161        RUB        114,661,725               (4,692

HSBC

       08/24/2018        USD        634,751        RUB        39,673,100        6,770         

HSBC

       08/24/2018        RUB        114,661,725        USD        1,810,629        4,338         

HSBC

       10/01/2018        USD        112,422        DKK        715,000               (477

JPM

       07/03/2018        USD        227,626        CAD        295,000        3,218         

JPM

       07/03/2018        GBP        97,000        USD        129,462               (1,429

JPM

       08/08/2018        USD        159,270        ZAR        2,032,576        11,841         

JPM

       08/24/2018        USD        318,000        RUB        19,913,160        2,797         

JPM

       10/01/2018        USD        423,573        DKK        2,875,000               (30,390

JPM

       10/01/2018        DKK        47,000        USD        7,289        132         
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                    $   99,896      $   (53,549
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (T)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 9,636,451     $     $ 9,636,451  

Certificate of Deposit

          500,000             500,000  

Corporate Debt Securities

          72,008,724             72,008,724  

Foreign Government Obligations

          9,051,782             9,051,782  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          6,054,071             6,054,071  

Municipal Government Obligations

          1,154,504             1,154,504  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          38,184,887             38,184,887  

U.S. Government Obligations

          78,092,870             78,092,870  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

          348,373             348,373  

Short-Term U.S. Government Obligations

          3,810,405             3,810,405  

Securities Lending Collateral

    1,825,672                   1,825,672  

Repurchase Agreements

          344,094,765             344,094,765  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    6,100,355                   6,100,355  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

          641,263             641,263  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 7,926,027     $ 563,578,095     $     $ 571,504,122  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Centrally Cleared Credit Default Swap Agreements

  $     $ 29,813     $     $ 29,813  

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          2,364,793             2,364,793  

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          2,811             2,811  

Futures Contracts (U)

    888,264                   888,264  

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (U)

          99,896             99,896  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 888,264     $ 2,497,313     $     $ 3,385,577  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $     $ (54,568,625   $     $ (54,568,625

Exchange-Traded Options Written

    (22,969                 (22,969

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swaptions Written

          (513           (513

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Written

          (950,801           (950,801

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          (78,994           (78,994

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          (225           (225

Over-the-Counter Total Return Swap Agreements

          (2,025,809           (2,025,809

Futures Contracts (U)

    (5,880,220                 (5,880,220

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (U)

          (53,549           (53,549
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (5,903,189   $ (57,678,516   $     $ (63,581,705
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $36,580,772, representing 9.0% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(D)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $3,372,081 or 0.8% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(F)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(G)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(H)    Securities are exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. At June 30, 2018, the total value of Regulation S securities is $4,331,482, representing 1.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(I)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $1,788,338. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(J)    Step bond. Coupon rate changes in increments to maturity. The rate disclosed is as of June 30, 2018; the maturity date disclosed is the ultimate maturity date.
(K)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the value of the security is $344,541, representing 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(L)    Securities are subject to sale-buyback transactions.
(M)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral for centrally cleared swap agreements. The value of the security is $133,813.
(N)    All or a portion of the security has been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The value of the security is $1,031,295.
(O)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral for open over-the-counter options and/or swaptions, swap agreements and forward foreign currency contracts. The total value of such securities is $2,779,114.
(P)    If the Portfolio is a seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Portfolio will either (a) pay to the buyer of protection an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation or (b) pay a net settlement amount in the form of cash or securities equal to the notional amount of the swap agreement less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation.
(Q)    The maximum potential amount the Portfolio could be required to pay as a seller of credit protection or receive as a buyer of credit protection if a credit event occurs as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement.
(R)    The quoted market prices and resulting values for credit default swap agreements on asset-backed securities and credit indices serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of an expected liability (or profit) for the credit derivative had the notional amount of the swap agreement been closed/sold as of the period ended. Increasing market values, in absolute terms when compared to the notional amount of the swap agreement, represent a deterioration of the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement.
(S)    At the termination date, a net cash flow is exchanged where the total return is equivalent to the return of the reference entity less a financing rate, if any. As a receiver, the Portfolio would receive payments based on any positive total return and would owe payments in the event of a negative total return. As the payer, the Portfolio would owe payments on any net positive total return and would receive payment in the event of a negative total return.
(T)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(U)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CAD    Canadian Dollar
DKK    Danish Krone
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
JPY    Japanese Yen
RUB    Russian Ruble
USD    United States Dollar
ZAR    South African Rand

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

BNP    BNP Paribas
BOA    Bank of America, N.A.
CITI    Citibank N.A.
CSS    Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC
DUB    Deutsche Bank AG

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS (continued):

 

GSB    Goldman Sachs Bank
GSI    Goldman Sachs International
HSBC    HSBC Bank USA
JPM    JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
MLI    Merrill Lynch International
MSC    Morgan Stanley & Co.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CMBS    Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities
EAFE    Europe, Australasia and Far East
ETF    Exchange-Traded Fund
EURIBOR    Euro Interbank Offer Rate
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note
OAT    Obligations Assimilables du Tresor (Treasury Obligations)
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities
TBA    To Be Announced

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $229,968,059)
(including securities loaned of $1,788,338)

  $ 227,409,357  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $344,094,765)

    344,094,765  

Cash

    840  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    1,877,000  

Futures contracts

    10,069,000  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $207,772)

    203,721  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Investments sold

    214,292  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments sold

    13,990,430  

Interest

    1,465,737  

Dividends

    4  

Tax reclaims

    255  

Net income from securities lending

    209  

Variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swap agreements

    118,676  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    363,056  

Prepaid expenses

    1,439  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    2,811  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    99,896  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    599,911,488  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

OTC derivatives (A)

    490,000  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    21,610  

Sale-buyback financing transactions

    1,446,471  

Investments purchased

    98,953,495  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    32,846,831  

Investment management fees

    266,461  

Distribution and service fees

    79,021  

Transfer agent costs

    821  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,423  

Audit and tax fees

    13,904  

Custody fees

    16,659  

Legal fees

    4,176  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    41,191  

Interest

    119,997  

Deferred income for sale-buyback financing transactions

    128  

Other

    4,840  

Collateral for securities on loan

    1,825,672  

Reverse repurchase agreements, at value (cost $54,568,625)

    54,568,625  

Written options and swaptions, at value (premium received $617,362)

    974,283  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    2,026,034  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    53,549  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    193,755,191  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   406,156,297  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 324,841  

Additional paid-in capital

    358,566,652  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    12,739,860  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    44,089,791  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (2,558,702

Written options and swaptions

    (356,921

Swap agreements

    (1,700,026

Futures contracts

    (4,991,956

Forward foreign currency contracts

    46,347  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (3,589
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 406,156,297  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12,998,505  

Service Class

    393,157,792  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    1,023,421  

Service Class

    31,460,723  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 12.70  

Service Class

    12.50  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 4,635,525  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    2,235  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    9  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    4,637,769  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,684,180  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    499,503  

Transfer agent costs

    2,977  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    6,513  

Audit and tax fees

    13,499  

Custody fees

    86,400  

Legal fees

    12,212  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    22,604  

Interest

    76,238  

Other

    5,529  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,409,655  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,228,114  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    (1,859,262

Written options and swaptions

    30,799  

Swap agreements

    2,157,965  

Futures contracts

    8,991,209  

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (1,056,623

Foreign currency transactions

    (57,928
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    8,206,160  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (4,917,756

Written options and swaptions

    (252,500

Swap agreements

    (2,797,714

Futures contracts

    (7,555,020

Forward foreign currency contracts

    752,894  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (19,037
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (14,789,133
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (6,582,973
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (4,354,859
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,228,114     $ 2,226,323  

Net realized gain (loss)

    8,206,160       47,141,316  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (14,789,133     6,209,726  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (4,354,859     55,577,365  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (79,582

Service Class

          (1,574,574
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (1,654,156
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (406,025

Service Class

          (12,390,250
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (12,796,275
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (14,450,431
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    332,208       642,179  

Service Class

    4,080,493       23,964,259  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    4,412,701       24,606,438  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          485,607  

Service Class

          13,964,824  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          14,450,431  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (766,027     (1,397,155

Service Class

    (18,822,756     (31,590,925
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (19,588,783     (32,988,080
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (15,176,082     6,068,789  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (19,530,941     47,195,723  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    425,687,238       378,491,515  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   406,156,297     $   425,687,238  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 12,739,860     $ 10,511,746  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    25,977       52,390  

Service Class

    320,231       2,007,481  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    346,208       2,059,871  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          40,636  

Service Class

          1,185,469  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          1,226,105  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (60,389     (114,651

Service Class

    (1,499,567     (2,629,276
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,559,956     (2,743,927
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (34,412     (21,625

Service Class

    (1,179,336     563,674  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,213,748     542,049  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.82     $ 11.57     $ 11.01     $ 11.65     $ 11.45     $ 9.87  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.08       0.10       0.04 (B)       (0.01     (0.02     (0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.20     1.62       0.52       (0.36     0.77       1.68  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.12     1.72       0.56       (0.37     0.75       1.67  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.08                 (0.21     (0.09

Net realized gains

          (0.39           (0.27     (0.34      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.47           (0.27     (0.55     (0.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.70     $ 12.82     $ 11.57     $ 11.01     $ 11.65     $ 11.45  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (0.94 )%(D)      15.13     5.09     (3.16 )%      6.63     17.03
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   12,998     $   13,558     $   12,492     $   12,715     $   14,346     $   14,042  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.93 %(E)      0.93     0.90     0.90     0.90     1.00

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.93 %(E)      0.93     0.89 %(B)      0.90     0.95     0.95

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.32 %(E)      0.79     0.33 %(B)      (0.11 )%      (0.18 )%      (0.14 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    18 %(D)(F)      47 %(F)      57 %(F)      49     39     75 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.
(G)    Decrease in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.63     $ 11.41     $ 10.88     $ 11.55     $ 11.37     $ 9.81  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.07       0.07       0.01 (B)       (0.04     (0.05     (0.04

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.20     1.59       0.52       (0.36     0.77       1.68  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.13     1.66       0.53       (0.40     0.72       1.64  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.05                 (0.20     (0.08

Net realized gains

          (0.39           (0.27     (0.34      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.44           (0.27     (0.54     (0.08
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.50     $ 12.63     $ 11.41     $ 10.88     $ 11.55     $ 11.37  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (1.03 )%(D)      14.83     4.87     (3.46 )%      6.39     16.81
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   393,158     $   412,129     $   366,000     $   318,268     $   189,137     $   109,161  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.18 %(E)      1.18     1.15     1.15     1.15     1.25

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.18 %(E)      1.18     1.14 %(B)      1.15     1.20     1.20

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.07 %(E)      0.54     0.09 %(B)      (0.35 )%      (0.43 )%      (0.39 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    18 %(D)(F)      47 %(F)      57 %(F)      49     39     75 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.
(G)    Decrease in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica PIMCO Tactical—Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

 

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Reverse repurchase agreements: The Portfolio may enter into reverse repurchase agreements in which the Portfolio sells portfolio securities and agrees to repurchase them from the buyer at a specified date and price. The Portfolio may utilize reverse repurchase agreements when it is anticipated that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the proceeds of the transaction is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to be a form of borrowing. Pursuant to the terms of the reverse repurchase agreements, the Portfolio’s custodian must segregate assets with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the repurchase price. In periods of increased demand for the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leverage risk and also the risk that the market value of the securities that the Portfolio are obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio is subject to the risk that the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio. In the event of a default by the counterparty, there may be delays, costs and risks of loss involved in the Portfolio exercising its rights under the agreement, or those rights may be limited by other contractual agreements.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily
Borrowing
  Number of Days
Outstanding
  Weighted Average
Interest Rate
$  46,971,945   181  

1.71%

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Open reverse repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments.

Sale-buyback: The Portfolio may enter into sale-buyback financing transactions. The Portfolio accounts for sale-buyback financing transactions as borrowing transactions and realize gains and losses on these transactions at the end of the roll period. Sale-buyback financing transactions involve sales by the Portfolio of securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase the same or substantially similar securities at an agreed upon price and date.

The Portfolio forgoes principal and interest paid during the roll period on the securities sold in a sale-buyback financing transaction. The Portfolio is compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the price for the future purchase (often referred to as the “price drop”), as well as by any interest earned on the proceeds of the securities sold. Sale-buyback financing transactions may be renewed with a new sale and a repurchase price and a cash settlement made at each renewal without physical delivery of the securities subject to the contract. Sale-buyback financing transactions expose the Portfolio to risks such as, the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio, the market value of the securities the Portfolio is obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio’s obligations under a sale-buyback typically would be offset by liquid assets equal in value to the amount of the Portfolio’s forward commitment to repurchase the subject security. Sale-buyback financing transactions accounted for as borrowing transactions are excluded from the Portfolio’s portfolio turnover rates. The Portfolio recognizes price drop fee income on a straight line basis over the period of the roll. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio earned price drop fee income of $45,853. The price drop fee income is included in Interest income within the Statement of Operations.

The outstanding payable for securities to be repurchased, if any, is included in Payable for sale-buyback financing transactions within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The interest expense is included within Interest income on the Statement of Operations. In periods of increased demand of the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio, and is reflected in Interest income on the Statement of Operations.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily
Borrowing
  Number of Days
Outstanding
  Weighted Average
Interest Rate
$  9,124,936   167   1.66%

Open sale-buyback financing transactions at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Corporate Debt Securities

  $ 1,635,801     $     $     $     $ 1,635,801  

Foreign Government Obligations

    189,871                         189,871  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 1,825,672     $     $     $     $ 1,825,672  

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $ 55,059,038     $     $     $ 55,059,038  

Cash

    (490,413                       (490,413

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $ (490,413   $ 55,059,038     $     $     $ 54,568,625  

Sale Buy-back Transactions

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $ 1,446,471     $     $     $ 1,446,471  

Total Borrowings

  $   1,335,259     $   56,505,509     $   —     $   —     $   57,840,768  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on indices: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on indices. Purchasing or writing an option on indices gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the cash from the underlying index. The exercise of the option will result in a cash transfer and gain or loss depends on the change in the underlying index.

Inflation-capped options: The Portfolio may purchase or write inflation-capped options. Purchasing or writing inflation-capped options gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell an option which applies a cap to protect the Portfolio from inflation erosion above a certain rate on a given notional exposure. A floor can be used to give downside protection to the investments in inflation-linked products.

Interest rate-capped options: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate-capped options. Purchasing or writing interest rate-capped options gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell an option which applies a cap to protect the Portfolio from floating rate risk above a certain rate on a given notional exposure. A floor can be used to give downside protection to investments in interest rate-linked products.

Interest rate swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. The writer of the swaption becomes the counterparty to the swap if the buyer exercises. The interest rate swaption agreement will specify whether the buyer of the swaption will be a fixed-rate receiver or a fixed-rate payer upon exercise.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Straddle swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write straddle swaption agreements which is an investment strategy that consists of two swaptions, each with a different underlying swap, wherein the holder buys both a payer and receiver option on the same floating rate. If the floating rate falls, the holder receives the fixed rate, and if the floating rate rises, the holder pays the fixed rate.

Written options: Writing call options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. Writing put options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. When the Portfolio writes a covered call or put option, the premium received is recorded as a liability within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. Premiums received from written options which expire unexercised are treated as realized gains. Premiums received from writing options which are exercised or closed are added to the proceeds or offset against amounts paid on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss. In writing an option, the Portfolio bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security or currency underlying the written option. Exercise of an option written by the Portfolio could result in the Portfolio selling or buying a security or currency at a price different from the current market value.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Swap agreements: Swap agreements are bilaterally negotiated agreements between the Portfolio and a counterparty to exchange or swap investments, cash flows, assets, foreign currencies, or market-linked returns at specified, future intervals. Swap agreements can be executed in a bilateral privately negotiated arrangement with a dealer in an OTC transaction or executed on a regular market. Certain swaps regardless of the venue of execution are required to be cleared through a clearinghouse (“centrally cleared swap agreements”). Centrally cleared swap agreements listed or traded on a multilateral platform, are valued at the daily settlement price determined by the corresponding exchange. For centrally cleared credit default swap agreements the clearing exchange requires all members to provide applicable levels across complete term levels. Centrally cleared interest rate swap agreements are valued using a

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    29


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

pricing model that references the underlying rates including but not limited to the overnight index swap rate and London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) forward rate to calculate the daily settlement price. The Portfolio may enter into credit default, cross-currency, interest rate, total return, and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit, currency, interest rate, and commodity risks. In connection with these agreements, securities or cash may be identified as collateral or margin in accordance with the terms of the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Swap agreements are marked-to-market daily based upon values from third party vendors, which may include a registered exchange, or quotations from market makers to the extent available and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

For OTC swap agreements, payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are reflected as such within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represent payments made or received upon entering into the swap agreements to compensate for differences between the stated terms of the swap agreement and prevailing market conditions (credit spreads, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and other relevant factors). These upfront payments are recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations upon termination or maturity of the swap. A liquidation payment received or made at the termination of the swap is recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations. Net periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are included as part of Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations.

Credit default swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio enters into credit default swap agreements to manage its exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market to reduce its risk exposure to defaults of corporate and sovereign issuers, or to create exposure to corporate or sovereign issuers to which it is not otherwise exposed. Credit default swap agreements involve the exchange of a fixed rate premium for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security in the event of a defined credit event, such as payment default or bankruptcy (buy protection).

Under a credit default swap agreement, one party acts as a guarantor by receiving the fixed periodic payment in exchange for the commitment to purchase the underlying security at par if the defined credit event occurs (sell protection). The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the notional amount of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

The Portfolio sells credit default swap agreements, which exposes it to risk of loss from credit risk related events specified in the contracts. Although contract-specific, credit events are generally defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, restructuring, obligation acceleration, obligation default, or repudiation/moratorium. If a defined credit event had occurred during the period, the swap agreements’ credit-risk-related contingent features would have been triggered, and the Portfolio would have been required to pay the notional amounts for the credit default swap agreements with a sell protection less the value of the contracts’ related reference obligations.

Interest rate swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Because the Portfolio holds fixed rate bonds, the value of these bonds may decrease if interest rates rise. To help hedge against this risk, the Portfolio enters into interest rate swap agreements. Under an interest rate swap agreement, two parties will exchange cash flows based on a notional principal amount. A Portfolio with interest rate agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate, on a notional principal amount. The risks of interest rate swap agreements include changes in market conditions which will affect the value of the contract or the cash flows, and the possible inability of the counterparty to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk is the discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from/paid to the counterparties over the contracts’ remaining lives, to the extent that amount is positive. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

Total return swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to commodity risk, equity risk, and other risks related to the underlying investments of the swap agreement in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The value of the commodity-linked investments held by a Portfolio can be affected by a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, overall market movements and other factors affecting the value of particular industries or commodities, such as weather, disease, embargoes, acts of war or terrorism, or political and regulatory developments. Commodity-linked derivatives are available from a relatively small number of issuers, subjecting the Portfolio’s investments in commodity-linked derivatives to counterparty risk, which is the risk that the issuer of the commodity-linked derivative will not fulfill its contractual obligations. Total return swap agreements on commodities involve commitments whereby cash flows are exchanged based on the price of a commodity in exchange for either a fixed or floating price or rate. One party would receive

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    30


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

payments based on the market value of the commodity involved and pay a fixed amount. Total return swap agreements on indices involve commitments to pay interest in exchange for a market-linked return. One counterparty pays out the total return of a specific reference entity, which may be an equity, index, or bond, and in return receives a regular stream of payments.

Open centrally cleared swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Centrally cleared swap agreements are marked-to-market daily and an appropriate payable or receivable for the variation margin is recorded, if applicable, and is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on centrally cleared swap agreements within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Open OTC swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. The value, as applicable, is shown in OTC swap agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location  

Interest Rate

Contracts

    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $ 649,138     $     $ 6,092,480     $     $     $ 6,741,618  

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (A) (C)

    2,364,793                   29,813             2,394,606  

OTC swap agreements, at value

                      2,811             2,811  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (D)

    888,264                               888,264  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          99,896                         99,896  

Total

  $   3,902,195     $   99,896     $   6,092,480     $   32,624     $   —     $   10,127,195  
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    31


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Written options and swaptions, at value (A)

  $ (973,770   $     $     $ (513   $     $ (974,283

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (A) (C)

    (78,994                             (78,994

OTC swap agreements, at value

                (2,025,809     (225           (2,026,034

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (D)

    (293,475           (5,586,745                 (5,880,220

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          (53,549                       (53,549

Total

  $   (1,346,239   $ (53,549   $   (7,612,554   $ (738   $     $   (9,013,080
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Investments, at value on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(C)   Included within Value of centrally cleared swap agreements as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(D)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $ 30,493     $     $ (1,422,034   $     $     $ (1,391,541

Written options and swaptions

    24,627       6,172                         30,799  

Swap agreements

    1,413,001             694,343       50,621             2,157,965  

Futures contracts

    (180,676           9,171,885                   8,991,209  

Forward foreign currency contracts (B)

          (1,056,623                       (1,056,623

Total

  $   1,287,445     $   (1,050,451   $   8,444,194     $   50,621     $     $   8,731,809  
                                                 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (C)

  $ 76,222     $     $ 809,440     $     $     $ 885,663  

Written options and swaptions

    (257,488     2,505             2,483             (252,500

Swap agreements

    182,506             (2,949,187     (31,033           (2,797,714

Futures contracts

    491,618             (8,046,638                 (7,555,020

Forward foreign currency contracts (D)

          752,894                         752,894  

Total

  $   492,859     $   755,399     $   (10,186,385   $   (28,550   $   —     $   (8,966,677
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.
(C)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(D)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    32


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options
and Swaptions
at value
  Written Options and
Swaptions at value
  Swap
Agreements
at Notional
Amount
   Futures Contracts at
Notional Amount
   Forward Foreign
Currency Contracts at
Contract Amount
Calls   Puts   Calls   Puts         Long    Short    Purchased    Sold
$  54,925   $  4,611,788   $  (82,689)   $  (604,922)   $  74,766,547    89,752,157    (153,914,286)    $  7,310,086    $  11,323,286

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    33


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
    Net Amount    

 

    Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of Assets
and Liabilities
    Net Amount  
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
 
    Assets           Liabilities  

Bank of America, N.A.

  $   10,994     $     $     $   10,994       $     $     $     $  

BNP Paribas

                              200                   200  

Citibank N.A.

    35,008         (35,008       —                 1,969,319         (35,008     (1,934,311      

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC

    8,233             (8,233                                

Deutsche Bank AG

                              146                   146  

Goldman Sachs Bank

    440,461       (440,461                   660,553       (440,461     (220,092      

Goldman Sachs International

    2,811       (225           2,586         225       (225            

HSBC Bank USA

    11,108       (5,169           5,939         5,169       (5,169            

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

    17,988       (17,988                   31,901       (17,988           13,913  

Merrill Lynch International

                              75,135                   75,135  

Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc.

    217,366       (217,366                   288,249       (217,366           70,883  

Other Derivatives (C)

    9,383,225                   9,383,225         5,982,183                   5,982,183  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   10,127,194     $   (716,217   $   (8,233   $   9,402,744       $   9,013,080     $   (716,217   $   (2,154,403   $   6,142,460  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.
(C)   Other Derivatives, which includes future contracts, exchange-traded options and exchange-traded swap agreements, are not subject to a master netting arrangement or another similar arrangement. The amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    34


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.82

Over $250 million up to $750 million

     0.81  

Over $750 million up to $1.5 billion

     0.79  

Over $1.5 billion

     0.76  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.95    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.20      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    35


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  9,793,850   $  28,345,524     $  30,614,811   $  33,499,087

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  574,062,824   $  3,553,192   $  (13,114,450)   $  (9,561,258)

10. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

11. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    36


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica PIMCO Tactical — Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    37


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its composite benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on September 17, 2012 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    38


Transamerica PIMCO Tactical – Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    39


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

    $  1,000.00       $  981.80       $  3.39       $  1,021.40       $  3.46       0.69

Service Class

    1,000.00       979.90       4.61       1,020.10       4.71       0.94  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     4.62  

Duration †

     3.99  
Credit Quality‡    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Government and Agency Securities

     78.4

AAA

     17.2  

AA

     2.9  

A

     12.0  

BBB

     20.9  

BB

     6.9  

B

     2.9  

CCC and Below

     7.8  

Not Rated

     21.3  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     (70.3

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

Credit quality represents a percentage of net assets at the end of the reporting period. Ratings BBB or higher are considered investment grade. Not rated securities do not necessarily indicate low credit quality, and may or may not be equivalent of investment grade. The table reflects Standard and Poor’s (“S&P”) ratings; percentages may include investments not rated by S&P but rated by Moody’s, or if unrated by Moody’s, by Fitch ratings, and then included in the closest equivalent S&P rating. Credit ratings are subject to change. The Portfolio itself has not been rated by an independent agency.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES - 17.3%  

ABFC Trust
Series 2004-OPT4, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.62%, 2.71% (A), 04/25/2034

    $  291,475        $  291,963  

Adams Mill CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.45% (A), 07/15/2026 (B)

    4,400,000        4,400,304  

Ally Auto Receivables Trust
2.72%, 05/17/2021

    8,000,000        7,999,800  

AmeriCredit Automobile Receivables Trust

    

Series 2017-1, Class A2B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.39% (A), 05/18/2020

    1,887,818        1,887,910  

Series 2018-1, Class A1,

2.45%, 05/20/2019

    2,745,724        2,745,770  

Series 2018-1, Class A2B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.23%, 2.32% (A), 07/19/2021

    4,200,000        4,200,197  

Ameriquest Mortgage Securities Trust
Series 2006-R1, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.39%, 2.48% (A), 03/25/2036

    200,000        198,407  

Apidos CLO XVI
Series 2013-16A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.34% (A), 01/19/2025 (B)

    3,722,781        3,722,900  

Argent Securities, Inc. Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificates
Series 2005-W4, Class A2D,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.38%, 2.47% (A), 02/25/2036

    2,960,971        2,314,262  

Aurium CLO
3-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 0.00% (A), 10/13/2029 (B) (C)

    EUR  3,600,000        4,204,080  

B&M CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.73%, 3.08% (A), 04/16/2026 (B)

    $  4,100,000        4,098,204  

Barings Euro CLO
Series 2016-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 0.00% (A), 07/27/2030 (B) (C)

    EUR  6,000,000        7,006,800  

Bayview Opportunity Master Fund IIIa Trust
Series 2017-RN8, Class A1,
3.35%, 11/28/2032 (A) (B)

    $  3,665,466        3,647,135  

Bayview Opportunity Master Fund IIIb Trust
Series 2017-RN6, Class A1,
3.10%, 08/28/2032 (A) (B)

    314,181        312,485  

Bear Stearns Asset-Backed Securities I Trust

    

Series 2005-AQ1, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.74% (A), 03/25/2035

    869,818        876,727  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Bear Stearns Asset-Backed Securities I Trust (continued)

 

Series 2005-HE6, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.01%, 3.10% (A), 06/25/2035

    $   276,499        $   279,562  

Series 2006-HE10, Class 21A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.24%, 2.33% (A), 12/25/2036

    13,678,867        10,091,077  

Series 2007-HE3, Class 1A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.29% (A), 04/25/2037

    1,073,913        1,370,473  

Bear Stearns Asset-Backed Securities Trust

    

Series 2002-2, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%, 2.75% (A), 10/25/2032

    8,043        8,069  

Series 2004-1, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.07% (A), 06/25/2034

    2,728,715        2,727,705  

Series 2006-SD3, Class 21A1,

3.65% (A), 07/25/2036

    96,375        96,919  

Benefit Street Partners CLO VII, Ltd.
Series 2015-VIIA, Class A1AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 3.14% (A), 07/18/2027 (B)

    4,500,000        4,491,819  

BlueMountain CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.89%, 3.25% (A), 10/29/2025 (B)

    4,570,104        4,570,031  

BNC Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2007-3, Class A3,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.13%, 2.22% (A), 07/25/2037

    488,312        487,994  

Cent CLO 19, Ltd.
Series 2013-19A, Class A1A,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.33%, 3.69% (A), 10/29/2025 (B)

    6,090,095        6,092,025  

Cent CLO 21, Ltd.
Series 2014-21A, Class A1BR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.21%, 3.58% (A), 07/27/2026 (B)

    7,000,000        7,000,259  

Chase Issuance Trust
Series 2017-A1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.37% (A), 01/18/2022

    7,000,000        7,015,988  

CIFC Funding, Ltd.

    

Series 2015-2A, Class AR,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 3.13% (A), 04/15/2027 (B)

    8,500,000        8,470,301  

Series 2015-5A, Class A1R,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.86%, 3.22% (A), 10/25/2027 (B)

    8,200,000        8,181,353  

CIT Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2007-1, Class 1A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.35%, 3.44% (A), 10/25/2037 (B)

    5,305,358        5,350,041  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2007-AMC1, Class A1,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.16%, 2.25% (A), 12/25/2036 (B)

    9,517,084        6,226,757  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust (continued)

 

Series 2007-AMC4, Class A2C,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.17%, 2.26% (A), 05/25/2037

    $   870,103        $   863,761  

Series 2007-FS1, Class 1A1,

4.56%, 10/25/2037 (A) (B)

    3,787,591        3,920,351  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust Asset-Backed Pass-Through Certificate
Series 2004-OPT1, Class M3,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.04% (A), 10/25/2034

    4,631,000        4,649,380  

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates

    

Series 2003-3, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.05%, 3.14% (A), 08/25/2033

    778,243        722,021  

Series 2004-9, Class MV4,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.58%, 3.67% (A), 11/25/2034

    2,500,000        2,173,083  

Series 2006-20, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.14%, 2.23% (A), 04/25/2047

    4,562,010        4,414,186  

Series 2006-24, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.14%, 2.23% (A), 06/25/2047

    11,449,930        10,503,825  

Series 2006-24, Class 2A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.15%, 2.24% (A), 06/25/2047

    3,901,106        3,835,377  

Series 2006-26, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.14%, 2.23% (A), 06/25/2037

    3,964,971        3,739,202  

Series 2007-2, Class 2A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.14%, 2.23% (A), 08/25/2037

    5,892,247        5,784,066  

Series 2007-9, Class 1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.29% (A), 06/25/2047

    8,240,982        7,297,608  

CSMC Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
4.50%, 03/25/2021

    4,063,938        4,090,730  

CWABS Asset-Backed Certificates Trust
Series 2004-13, Class MV4,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.94% (A), 04/25/2035

    618,211        621,116  

CWABS, Inc. Asset-Backed Certificates Trust
Series 2003-BC1, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.89% (A), 03/25/2033

    23,927        23,607  

Dryden XXV Senior Loan Fund
Series 2012-25A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 10/15/2027 (B)

    7,100,000        7,095,910  

Emerson Park CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-1A, Class A1AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.98%, 3.33% (A), 07/15/2025 (B)

    2,315,579        2,315,650  

Ford Credit Auto Owner Trust
Series 2014-2, Class A,
2.31%, 04/15/2026 (B)

    6,820,000        6,766,754  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Ford Credit Floorplan Master Owner Trust
Series 2015-4, Class A2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.67% (A), 08/15/2020

    $   5,500,000        $   5,502,533  

Golden Credit Card Trust
Series 2017-1A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (A), 02/15/2021 (B)

    7,000,000        7,009,651  

GSAMP Trust

    

Series 2005-HE1, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.32%, 3.41% (A), 12/25/2034

    3,539,988        2,601,940  

Series 2007-HS1, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.94% (A), 02/25/2047

    1,997,940        1,984,326  

Halcyon Loan Advisors Funding, Ltd.
Series 2014-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.46% (A), 10/22/2025 (B)

    7,500,000        7,500,938  

Home Equity Asset Trust

    

Series 2002-1, Class A4,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.69% (A), 11/25/2032

    1,283        1,236  

Series 2004-4, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 2.87% (A), 10/25/2034

    4,397,299        4,366,373  

Home Equity Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Trust
Series 2007-A, Class 1A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.22%, 2.31% (A), 04/25/2037

    1,626,558        1,323,688  

Hyundai Auto Lease Securitization Trust
Series 2017-B, Class A2A,
1.69%, 12/16/2019 (B)

    4,935,999        4,918,367  

KVK CLO, Ltd.
Series 2013-1A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.25% (A), 01/15/2028 (B)

    7,000,000        6,987,526  

LoanCore Issuer, Ltd.
Series 2018-CRE1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.13%, 3.20% (A), 05/15/2028 (B)

    6,600,000        6,602,014  

Master Asset-Backed Securities Trust
Series 2007-HE2, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.15%, 3.24% (A), 08/25/2037

    3,585,042        3,095,633  

Monarch Grove CLO Trust
Series 2018-1A, Class A1,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.88%, 3.24% (A), 01/25/2028 (B)

    5,700,000        5,709,781  

Morgan Stanley ABS Capital I, Inc. Trust

    

Series 2004-HE9, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 3.02% (A), 11/25/2034

    1,816,099        1,803,212  

Series 2005-WMC6, Class M3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 2.86% (A), 07/25/2035

    4,339,607        4,359,449  

Series 2007-HE5, Class A2C,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.34% (A), 03/25/2037

    2,973,396        1,638,504  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Mountain Hawk III CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-3A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 1.20%, 3.56% (A), 04/18/2025 (B)

    $   5,600,000        $   5,600,784  

Navient Private Education Loan Trust

    

Series 2018-BA, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.42% (A), 12/15/2059 (B)

    5,700,000        5,700,218  

Series 2018-BA, Class A2B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.72%, 2.79% (A), 12/15/2059 (B)

    2,300,000        2,300,627  

Navient Student Loan Trust

    

Series 2017-3A, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.39% (A), 07/26/2066 (B)

    4,234,930        4,238,605  

Series 2018-2A, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.24%, 2.33% (A), 03/25/2067 (B)

    10,727,860        10,734,272  

New Century Home Equity Loan Trust
Series 2005-C, Class A2C,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.34% (A), 12/25/2035

    470,903        470,538  

Nissan Master Owner Trust Receivables
Series 2016-A, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.64%, 2.71% (A), 06/15/2021

    7,000,000        7,025,201  

OCP CLO, Ltd.
Series 2015-9A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 3.15% (A), 07/15/2027 (B)

    7,000,000        6,989,038  

Octagon Investment Partners XXIII, Ltd.
Series 2015-1A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 3.11% (A), 07/15/2027 (B)

    4,100,000        4,094,363  

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2007-2, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.14%, 2.23% (A), 03/25/2037

    5,932,015        4,507,247  

Series 2007-5, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.22%, 2.31% (A), 05/25/2037

    8,903,787        6,356,300  

RAAC Trust
Series 2007-SP1, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.09% (A), 03/25/2037

    5,212,000        5,106,264  

RASC Trust

    

Series 2005-KS11, Class M2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.42%, 2.51% (A), 12/25/2035

    7,100,000        7,071,145  

Series 2006-EMX1, Class M1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.41%, 2.50% (A), 01/25/2036

    2,233,820        2,215,633  

Series 2006-KS9, Class AI3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.16%, 2.25% (A), 11/25/2036

    1,703,031        1,615,300  

Series 2007-KS3, Class AI4,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.43% (A), 04/25/2037

    4,100,000        3,838,947  
     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

SLM Student Loan Trust

    

Series 2003-11, Class A6,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.89% (A), 12/15/2025 (B)

    $   7,357,155        $   7,393,089  

Series 2004-3A, Class A6B,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.91% (A), 10/25/2064 (B)

    4,300,000        4,284,082  

Series 2005-3, Class A5,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.09%, 2.45% (A), 10/25/2024

    4,133,510        4,130,293  

Series 2005-9, Class A6,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.55%, 2.91% (A), 10/26/2026

    4,113,209        4,118,548  

Series 2007-3, Class A3,

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.04%, 2.40% (A), 04/25/2019

    1,241,973        1,238,764  

Sofi Professional Loan Program LLC
Series 2018-A, Class A2A,
2.39%, 02/25/2042 (B)

    6,609,707        6,569,408  

SoFi Professional Loan Program Trust
Series 2018-B, Class A1FX,
2.64%, 08/25/2047 (B)

    7,861,000        7,831,000  

Soundview Home Loan Trust

    

Series 2005-3, Class M3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.83%, 2.92% (A), 06/25/2035

    161,713        159,950  

Series 2006-OPT2, Class A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.18%, 2.27% (A), 05/25/2036

    2,840,858        2,834,953  

Series 2007-OPT2, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.17%, 2.26% (A), 07/25/2037

    6,145,819        5,322,076  

Series 2007-OPT3, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.17%, 2.26% (A), 08/25/2037

    9,162,503        8,344,053  

Series 2007-WMC1, Class 3A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.11%, 2.20% (A), 02/25/2037

    1,274,807        528,190  

SpringCastle America Funding LLC
Series 2016-AA, Class A,
3.05%, 04/25/2029 (B) (D)

    3,875,902        3,861,570  

Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust
Series 2005-9, Class M1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.42%, 2.51% (A), 11/25/2035

    6,000,000        5,812,466  

TICP CLO I, Ltd.
Series 2015-1A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 3.16% (A), 07/20/2027 (B)

    7,100,000        7,072,402  

TICP CLO III, Ltd.
Series 2018-3R, Class A,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.84%, 3.20% (A), 04/20/2028 (B)

    5,500,000        5,489,176  

Trillium Credit Card Trust II
Series 2018-1A, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.35% (A), 02/27/2023 (B)

    11,100,000        11,099,353  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

U.S. Small Business Administration

    

Series 2003-20I, Class 1,

5.13%, 09/01/2023

    $   37,035        $   38,319  

Series 2004-20C, Class 1,

4.34%, 03/01/2024

    285,519        290,316  

Series 2008-20L, Class 1,

6.22%, 12/01/2028

    711,840        767,537  

Venture XII CLO, Ltd.
Series 2012-12A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 3.12% (A), 02/28/2026 (B)

    8,400,000        8,379,151  

Venture XVI CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-16A, Class ARR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 3.20% (A), 01/15/2028 (B)

    7,000,000        6,985,426  

Venture XX CLO, Ltd.
Series 2015-20A, Class AR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.82%, 3.17% (A), 04/15/2027 (B)

    5,700,000        5,689,444  

Vibrant CLO II, Ltd.
Series 2013-2A, Class A1BR,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.90%, 3.26% (A), 07/24/2024 (B)

    5,835,469        5,835,510  

VOLT LVII LLC
Series 2017-NPL4, Class A1,
3.38%, 04/25/2047 (A) (B)

    1,194,534        1,191,059  

Voya CLO, Ltd.
Series 2014-3A, Class A1R,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.72%, 3.08% (A), 07/25/2026 (B)

    8,500,000        8,489,486  

Wachovia Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-WMC1, Class M2,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.69%, 2.78% (A), 10/25/2035

    1,651,000        1,471,039  

WaMu Asset-Backed Certificates Trust
Series 2007-HE2, Class 2A3,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.34% (A), 04/25/2037

    4,518,793        2,455,714  
    

 

 

 

Total Asset-Backed Securities
(Cost $443,926,582)

 

     460,135,971  
    

 

 

 
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT - 1.6%  
Banks - 1.3%  

Barclays Bank PLC
1.94% (E), 09/04/2018

    33,700,000        33,700,000  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 0.3%  

Credit Suisse AG
1-Month LIBOR + 0.62%, 2.72% (A), 09/28/2018

    8,400,000        8,400,000  
    

 

 

 

Total Certificates of Deposit
(Cost $42,100,000)

 

     42,100,000  
    

 

 

 
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 39.3%  
Airlines - 0.2%  

Latam Airlines Pass-Through Trust
4.20%, 08/15/2029

    5,044,770        4,771,344  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks - 13.9%  

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA
Fixed until 02/18/2020,
6.75% (A), 02/18/2020 (F) (G)

    EUR  3,600,000        $   4,372,243  

Banco do Brasil SA
3.75%, 07/25/2018 (B)

    2,300,000        2,690,087  

Banco do Nordeste do Brasil SA
4.38%, 05/03/2019 (G)

    $  2,900,000        2,894,200  

Banco Espirito Santo SA

    

2.63%, 05/08/2017, MTN (G) (H) (I)

    EUR  1,600,000        532,517  

4.00%, 01/21/2019, MTN (G) (H) (I)

    800,000        270,930  

Banco Santander SA
3.85%, 04/12/2023

    $  6,800,000        6,650,348  

Bank of America Corp.

    

Fixed until 12/20/2022,
3.00% (A), 12/20/2023

    16,197,000        15,703,591  

3-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.36% (A), 04/24/2023

    8,500,000        8,589,498  

4.10%, 07/24/2023

    4,100,000        4,167,564  

Barclays Bank PLC

    

7.63%, 11/21/2022

    3,100,000        3,337,150  

10.18%, 06/12/2021 (B)

    5,520,000        6,369,190  

Barclays PLC

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.63%, 3.96% (A), 01/10/2023

    5,200,000        5,280,550  

3-Month LIBOR + 2.11%, 4.46% (A), 08/10/2021

    5,200,000        5,396,855  

Fixed until 09/15/2022,
7.88% (A), 09/15/2022 (F) (G)

    GBP  3,000,000        4,196,806  

Fixed until 12/15/2018,
8.25% (A), 12/15/2018 (F)

    $  1,100,000        1,117,695  

CIT Group, Inc.
5.38%, 05/15/2020

    900,000        923,625  

CitiBank NA

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.68% (A), 05/01/2020

    1,600,000        1,601,146  

3.05%, 05/01/2020

    9,500,000        9,496,535  

Citigroup, Inc.

    

2.05%, 06/07/2019

    500,000        495,994  

2.70%, 10/27/2022

    6,800,000        6,530,196  

2.75%, 04/25/2022

    8,400,000        8,130,760  

2.90%, 12/08/2021

    3,700,000        3,624,612  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.88%, 3.24% (A), 07/30/2018

    6,100,000        6,104,523  

3-Month LIBOR + 1.38%, 3.71% (A), 03/30/2021

    1,100,000        1,124,070  

3-Month LIBOR + 1.43%, 3.73% (A), 09/01/2023

    4,300,000        4,388,444  

Cooperatieve Rabobank UA

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.43%, 2.79% (A), 04/26/2021

    3,700,000        3,702,738  

4.38%, 08/04/2025

    7,400,000        7,255,194  

HSBC Holdings PLC
3-Month LIBOR + 1.50%, 3.82% (A), 01/05/2022

    2,900,000        2,985,035  

ING Bank NV
2.63%, 12/05/2022 (B)

    3,600,000        3,516,062  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.
2.40%, 06/07/2021

    7,500,000        7,306,967  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (continued)

    

2.55%, 10/29/2020

    $   800,000        $   787,858  

2.75%, 06/23/2020

    10,000,000        9,911,094  

3.90%, 07/15/2025

    7,100,000        7,073,352  

6.30%, 04/23/2019

    3,000,000        3,084,387  

JPMorgan Chase Bank NA

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.61% (A), 02/13/2020

    8,300,000        8,297,832  

Fixed until 04/26/2020,
3.09% (A), 04/26/2021

    17,200,000        17,159,687  

Lloyds Bank PLC
Fixed until 12/16/2024,
12.00% (A), 12/16/2024 (B) (F) (J)

    20,500,000        25,089,745  

Lloyds Banking Group PLC
Fixed until 06/27/2023,
7.63% (A), 06/27/2023 (F) (G)

    GBP  2,500,000        3,605,796  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.
3.46%, 03/02/2023

    $  4,900,000        4,857,852  

MUFG Bank, Ltd.
3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.36% (A), 09/14/2018 (B)

    12,900,000        12,924,016  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.
2.25%, 03/16/2021 (B)

    6,000,000        5,867,427  

Nykredit Realkredit A/S
1.00%, 07/01/2018 (G)

    DKK  47,000,000        7,358,283  

1.00%, 07/01/2018 - 10/01/2018, MTN (G)

    135,900,000        21,309,205  

2.00%, 10/01/2018 (G)

    55,000,000        8,668,706  

Royal Bank of Canada
2.30%, 03/22/2021

    $  6,000,000        5,883,568  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC
3.88%, 09/12/2023

    6,500,000        6,314,239  

Santander UK PLC
2.13%, 11/03/2020

    4,160,000        4,038,476  

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.43%, 2.75% (A), 05/17/2021 (B)

    6,700,000        6,694,030  

3.25%, 05/17/2021 (B)

    6,800,000        6,768,489  

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp.
2.51%, 01/17/2020

    7,100,000        7,025,087  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 1.68%, 4.01% (A), 03/09/2021 (J)

    6,000,000        6,186,034  

Svenska Handelsbanken AB
3.35%, 05/24/2021, MTN

    7,000,000        7,010,224  

Synchrony Bank
3.65%, 05/24/2021 (J)

    6,900,000        6,903,999  

Toronto-Dominion Bank
2.50%, 01/18/2022 (B)

    9,800,000        9,593,625  

US Bank NA
3.15%, 04/26/2021

    8,100,000        8,118,160  

Wells Fargo & Co.
2.10%, 07/26/2021

    4,000,000        3,843,498  

2.50%, 03/04/2021

    2,500,000        2,444,208  

2.63%, 07/22/2022, MTN

    5,400,000        5,201,192  

3-Month LIBOR + 1.23%, 3.59% (A), 10/31/2023

    2,000,000        2,040,498  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

Westpac Banking Corp.
3.05%, 05/15/2020

    $   6,800,000        $   6,795,478  
    

 

 

 
       369,611,170  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.4%  

Constellation Brands, Inc.
4.25%, 05/01/2023

    700,000        713,663  

Maple Escrow Subsidiary, Inc.
4.06%, 05/25/2023 (B) (D)

    6,700,000        6,716,338  

Molson Coors Brewing Co.
2.10%, 07/15/2021

    2,400,000        2,301,428  
    

 

 

 
       9,731,429  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 5.8%  

Blackstone CQP Holdco, LP 6.00%, 08/18/2021 (B) (D)

    5,900,000        5,885,250  

6.50%, 03/20/2021 (B) (D)

    9,700,000        9,700,000  

Credit Suisse Group AG
Fixed until 06/12/2023,
4.21% (A), 06/12/2024 (B) (D)

    6,700,000        6,704,875  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3.45%, 04/16/2021

    3,700,000        3,686,084  

3.75%, 03/26/2025

    6,825,000        6,564,076  

3.80%, 06/09/2023

    5,600,000        5,527,347  

3-Month LIBOR + 2.29%, 4.65% (A), 04/16/2021

    5,300,000        5,538,863  

Deutsche Bank AG
2.70%, 07/13/2020

    7,000,000        6,807,847  

3.15%, 01/22/2021

    8,200,000        7,935,753  

3.30%, 11/16/2022

    4,500,000        4,215,922  

3.38%, 05/12/2021

    6,400,000        6,190,284  

3.70%, 05/30/2024

    8,200,000        7,611,989  

4.25%, 10/14/2021

    4,100,000        4,042,067  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 3.08% (A), 02/23/2023

    7,100,000        7,073,348  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 3.14% (A), 10/31/2022

    4,900,000        4,901,000  

3-Month LIBOR + 1.10%, 3.44% (A), 11/15/2018, MTN

    4,800,000        4,817,925  

3.75%, 05/22/2025

    13,700,000        13,357,005  

Morgan Stanley

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.18%, 3.54% (A), 01/20/2022

    2,700,000        2,735,211  

Fixed until 04/24/2023,
3.74% (A), 04/24/2024

    8,200,000        8,150,798  

Piper Jaffray Cos.
5.06%, 10/09/2018 (B) (D)

    2,000,000        2,009,360  

UBS AG
2.45%, 12/01/2020 (B)

    4,300,000        4,203,323  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.64% (A), 12/07/2018 (B)

    5,500,000        5,504,455  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.58%, 2.90% (A), 06/08/2020 (B)

    9,200,000        9,225,208  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 3.15% (A), 06/01/2020

    500,000        504,326  

UBS Group Funding Switzerland AG
3.00%, 04/15/2021 (B)

    11,000,000        10,831,876  
    

 

 

 
       153,724,192  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Chemicals - 0.2%  

Syngenta Finance NV
4.44%, 04/24/2023 (B)

    $   5,000,000        $   4,972,009  
    

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering - 0.1%  

Odebrecht Offshore Drilling Finance, Ltd.
6.72%, 12/01/2022 (B)

    999,546        899,591  

PIK Rate 1.00%, Cash Rate 6.72%, 7.72%, 12/01/2026
Cash Rate 6.72% (B) (K)

    3,223,710        838,165  

Odebrecht Oil & Gas Finance, Ltd.
Zero Coupon, 07/30/2018 (B) (F)

    500,930        6,161  
    

 

 

 
       1,743,917  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 4.7%  

Ally Financial, Inc.
8.00%, 03/15/2020

    9,140,000        9,768,375  

Altice Financing SA
6.63%, 02/15/2023 (B)

    1,000,000        985,500  

American Express Co.
3.38%, 05/17/2021

    6,600,000        6,607,869  

3.40%, 02/27/2023

    8,300,000        8,203,648  

American Honda Finance Corp.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.71% (A), 11/05/2021, MTN

    6,400,000        6,403,584  

Capital One Financial Corp.
2.40%, 10/30/2020

    6,900,000        6,730,164  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.81% (A), 10/30/2020

    7,000,000        6,973,579  

4.25%, 04/30/2025

    6,000,000        5,979,144  

Daimler Finance North America LLC
2.00%, 08/03/2018 (B)

    6,600,000        6,596,662  

2.25%, 03/02/2020 (B)

    1,200,000        1,180,248  

3.35%, 05/04/2021 (B)

    6,800,000        6,773,592  

Discover Financial Services
Fixed until 10/30/2027,
5.50% (A), 10/30/2027 (F)

    7,000,000        6,833,750  

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC
2.55%, 10/05/2018

    7,200,000        7,195,481  

2.94%, 01/08/2019, MTN

    6,600,000        6,601,584  

3.20%, 01/15/2021

    6,500,000        6,426,786  

General Motors Financial Co., Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 3.19% (A), 04/09/2021

    4,100,000        4,121,327  

3.20%, 07/13/2020

    7,000,000        6,966,987  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.93%, 3.27% (A), 04/13/2020

    8,400,000        8,456,748  

Springleaf Finance Corp.
6.88%, 03/15/2025

    5,600,000        5,558,000  

Toyota Motor Credit Corp.
2.95%, 04/13/2021, MTN

    6,680,000        6,645,576  
    

 

 

 
       125,008,604  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.0% (L)  

Nationwide Building Society
2.35%, 01/21/2020 (B) (D)

    1,300,000        1,283,146  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 2.2%  

AerCap Ireland Capital DAC / AerCap Global Aviation Trust
3.30%, 01/23/2023

    7,000,000        6,728,273  

4.13%, 07/03/2023 (J)

    5,000,000        4,973,130  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Diversified Financial Services (continued)  

BRFkredit A/S
1.00%, 10/01/2018, MTN

    DKK  46,600,000        $   7,325,468  

Jefferies Finance LLC / JFIN Co-Issuer Corp.
7.38%, 04/01/2020 (B)

    $  200,000        200,946  

LeasePlan Corp. NV
2.88%, 01/22/2019 (B)

    6,400,000        6,389,309  

Nordea Kredit Realkreditaktieselskab
1.00%, 10/01/2018, MTN (G)

    DKK  41,300,000        6,493,447  

Tayarra, Ltd.
3.63%, 02/15/2022

    $  4,479,234        4,537,139  

Washington Prime Group, LP
5.95%, 08/15/2024 (J)

    22,800,000        21,975,388  
    

 

 

 
       58,623,100  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.8%  

AT&T, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.97% (A), 06/01/2021

    7,900,000        7,932,868  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 3.00% (A), 01/15/2020

    5,400,000        5,427,799  

3-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.30% (A), 07/15/2021

    7,000,000        7,066,628  

Verizon Communications, Inc.
3.38%, 02/15/2025

    1,020,000        976,421  
    

 

 

 
       21,403,716  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 1.2%  

FirstEnergy Corp.
3.90%, 07/15/2027

    3,100,000        3,007,340  

Florida Power & Light Co.
3.70%, 12/01/2047

    3,000,000        2,821,955  

Jersey Central Power & Light Co.
4.70%, 04/01/2024 (B)

    4,700,000        4,914,367  

Mississippi Power Co.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.99% (A), 03/27/2020

    8,100,000        8,099,990  

NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.32%, 2.64% (A), 09/03/2019

    11,100,000        11,121,304  

Progress Energy, Inc.
4.40%, 01/15/2021

    3,300,000        3,370,946  
    

 

 

 
       33,335,902  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.2%  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP / Regency Energy Finance Corp.
4.50%, 11/01/2023

    5,500,000        5,532,450  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.6%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.
4.30%, 01/15/2026

    4,100,000        4,102,173  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.
3.45%, 06/01/2025, MTN

    5,500,000        5,361,245  

CBL & Associates, LP
5.95%, 12/15/2026 (J)

    7,100,000        5,979,490  

Crown Castle International Corp.
5.25%, 01/15/2023

    4,000,000        4,191,350  

Digital Realty Trust, LP
3.70%, 08/15/2027

    1,600,000        1,520,523  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (continued)  

HCP, Inc.
4.00%, 12/01/2022

    $   3,000,000        $   3,012,476  

Hospitality Properties Trust
4.25%, 02/15/2021

    1,900,000        1,912,752  

Unibail-Rodamco SE
1.00%, 03/14/2025, MTN (G)

    EUR  4,900,000        5,753,315  

WEA Finance LLC / Westfield UK & Europe Finance PLC
3.25%, 10/05/2020 (B)

    $  4,200,000        4,191,644  

Welltower, Inc.
4.25%, 04/15/2028

    5,900,000        5,797,401  
    

 

 

 
       41,822,369  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.0%  

Campbell Soup Co.
3.30%, 03/15/2021

    2,900,000        2,888,014  

Kraft Heinz Foods Co.
3.38%, 06/15/2021

    8,000,000        8,013,280  

Mondelez International, Inc.
3.63%, 05/07/2023

    6,800,000        6,776,863  

Tyson Foods, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.78% (A), 08/21/2020

    8,800,000        8,799,942  
    

 

 

 
       26,478,099  
    

 

 

 
Gas Utilities - 0.3%  

CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp.
3.55%, 04/01/2023

    6,900,000        6,837,070  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.5%  

Becton Dickinson and Co.
2.13%, 06/06/2019

    7,000,000        6,965,813  

Boston Scientific Corp.
6.00%, 01/15/2020 (J)

    2,800,000        2,917,153  

Medtronic, Inc.
2.50%, 03/15/2020

    1,700,000        1,688,202  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.
2.70%, 04/01/2020

    2,000,000        1,980,612  
    

 

 

 
       13,551,780  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.8%  

Centene Escrow I Corp.
5.38%, 06/01/2026 (B)

    5,300,000        5,369,589  

CVS Health Corp.
2.80%, 07/20/2020

    8,100,000        8,023,518  

3.13%, 03/09/2020

    7,000,000        6,990,959  

HCA, Inc.
6.50%, 02/15/2020

    1,100,000        1,141,937  
    

 

 

 
       21,526,003  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.5%  

McDonald’s Corp.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.43%, 2.76% (A), 10/28/2021, MTN

    6,600,000        6,626,026  

Wynn Las Vegas LLC / Wynn Las Vegas Capital Corp.
5.50%, 03/01/2025 (B)

    6,200,000        6,091,500  
    

 

 

 
       12,717,526  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.2%  

Reckitt Benckiser Treasury Services PLC
2.38%, 06/24/2022 (B)

    5,400,000        5,162,849  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Insurance - 0.5%  

Allstate Corp.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.63%, 2.96% (A), 03/29/2023

    $   5,600,000        $   5,627,202  

Ambac LSNI LLC
3-Month LIBOR + 5.00%, 7.34% (A), 02/12/2023 (B)

    6,800,000        6,902,340  

American International Group, Inc.
3.75%, 07/10/2025

    2,200,000        2,125,044  
    

 

 

 
       14,654,586  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.1%  

Amazon.com, Inc.
4.25%, 08/22/2057

    3,000,000        2,958,103  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 0.2%  

DXC Technology Co.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 3.25% (A), 03/01/2021

    6,800,000        6,801,796  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.1%  

Discovery Communications LLC
2.80%, 06/15/2020 (B)

    500,000        493,963  

Time Warner Cable LLC
4.00%, 09/01/2021

    2,400,000        2,399,945  
    

 

 

 
       2,893,908  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.3%  

Dominion Energy, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.93% (A), 05/15/2020 (B) (D)

    8,000,000        8,008,240  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.6%  

Andeavor Logistics, LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.
5.50%, 10/15/2019

    6,100,000        6,252,500  

Enbridge, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 3.04% (A), 06/15/2020

    5,300,000        5,320,734  

Petrobras Global Finance BV
6.00%, 01/27/2028 (B)

    3,736,000        3,381,080  
    

 

 

 
       14,954,314  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 1.0%  

Allergan Funding SCS
3.45%, 03/15/2022

    300,000        295,196  

Allergan Sales LLC
5.00%, 12/15/2021 (B)

    1,200,000        1,241,576  

Baxalta, Inc.
2.88%, 06/23/2020

    8,250,000        8,156,109  

Bayer US Finance II LLC
3.88%, 12/15/2023 (B)

    8,100,000        8,100,340  

Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC
1.90%, 09/23/2019

    5,300,000        5,216,720  

2.40%, 09/23/2021

    900,000        861,628  

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.
5.38%, 03/15/2020 (B)

    1,558,000        1,578,939  
    

 

 

 
       25,450,508  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 0.3%  

Broadcom Corp. / Broadcom Cayman Finance, Ltd.
3.63%, 01/15/2024

    5,000,000        4,840,041  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (continued)  

Microchip Technology, Inc.
3.92%, 06/01/2021 (B) (D)

    $   4,600,000        $   4,607,640  
    

 

 

 
       9,447,681  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.4%  

Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.

    

3.48%, 06/01/2019 (B)

    3,200,000        3,208,057  

5.45%, 06/15/2023 (B)

    6,500,000        6,803,143  
    

 

 

 
       10,011,200  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 0.5%  

BAT Capital Corp.
3.56%, 08/15/2027 (B)

    4,300,000        4,000,725  

BAT International Finance PLC
2.75%, 06/15/2020 (B)

    1,100,000        1,088,002  

Imperial Brands Finance PLC
2.05%, 07/20/2018 (B)

    2,900,000        2,899,424  

Imperial Tobacco Finance PLC
2.95%, 07/21/2020 (B)

    5,500,000        5,443,313  
    

 

 

 
       13,431,464  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.5%  

International Lease Finance Corp.
7.13%, 09/01/2018 (B)

    13,200,000        13,286,116  
    

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.2%  

Sprint Spectrum Co. LLC / Sprint Spectrum Co. II LLC
3.36%, 03/20/2023 (B)

    5,850,000        5,784,187  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $1,053,326,774)

 

     1,045,518,778  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 5.7%  
Argentina - 0.2%  

Bonos de la Nacion Argentina CON Ajuste por CER
4.00%, 03/06/2020

    ARS  188,200,000        6,558,534  
    

 

 

 
Brazil - 3.8%  

Brazil Letras do Tesouro Nacional
Zero Coupon, 10/01/2018 - 01/01/2019

    BRL  396,016,000        100,341,765  
    

 

 

 
Greece - 0.2%  

Hellenic Republic Government Bond
4.75%, 04/17/2019 (B) (G)

    EUR  3,300,000        3,964,219  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 0.6%  

Japan Bank for International Cooperation
2.88%, 07/21/2027

    $  8,500,000        8,237,518  

Japan Finance Organization for Municipalities
2.63%, 04/20/2022 (B)

    8,400,000        8,195,446  
    

 

 

 
       16,432,964  
    

 

 

 
Kuwait - 0.3%  

Kuwait International Government Bond
2.75%, 03/20/2022 (B)

    6,900,000        6,719,910  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
Peru - 0.1%  

Corp. Financiera de Desarrollo SA
3.25%, 07/15/2019 (B)

    $   2,100,000        $   2,092,650  
    

 

 

 
Qatar - 0.5%  

Qatar Government International Bond
4.50%, 04/23/2028 (B)

    7,300,000        7,367,087  

5.10%, 04/23/2048 (B)

    6,900,000        6,879,024  
    

 

 

 
       14,246,111  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $172,495,350)

 

     150,356,153  
    

 

 

 
LOAN ASSIGNMENT - 0.2%  
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.2%  

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.
Term Loan B,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.75%, 3.73% (A), 05/30/2025

    4,300,000        4,293,731  
    

 

 

 

Total Loan Assignment
(Cost $4,300,000)

 

     4,293,731  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 7.7%  

Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2005-10, Class 1A21,

3.82% (A), 01/25/2036

    134,736        125,657  

Series 2005-4, Class 1A1,

2.98% (A), 08/25/2035

    102,486        80,303  

Series 2005-5, Class 2A1,

4.07% (A), 09/25/2035

    108,653        102,564  

Alternative Loan Trust

    

Series 2003-J3, Class 2A1,

6.25%, 12/25/2033

    37,632        38,466  

Series 2005-14, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.21%, 2.30% (A), 05/25/2035

    179,167        169,775  

Series 2005-56, Class 5A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 2.86% (A), 11/25/2035

    417,770        398,778  

Series 2005-59, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.33%, 2.41% (A), 11/20/2035

    3,422,919        3,332,231  

Series 2005-62, Class 2A1,

    

12-MTA + 1.00%, 2.56% (A), 12/25/2035

    16,553        15,071  

Series 2005-80CB, Class 1A1,

6.00%, 02/25/2036

    5,061,316        4,739,090  

Series 2005-81, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.28%, 2.37% (A), 02/25/2037

    962,536        866,775  

Series 2005-J12, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.27%, 2.36% (A), 08/25/2035

    4,448,576        3,105,709  

Series 2006-OA1, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.21%, 2.29% (A), 03/20/2046

    818,209        690,302  

Series 2006-OA12, Class A1B,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.19%, 2.27% (A), 09/20/2046

    3,514,608        2,917,438  

Series 2006-OA17, Class 1A1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.28% (A), 12/20/2046

    2,461,013        2,065,796  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Alternative Loan Trust (continued)

    

Series 2006-OA19, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.18%, 2.26% (A), 02/20/2047

    $   4,144,510        $   3,395,799  

Series 2006-OA21, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.19%, 2.27% (A), 03/20/2047

    2,434,371        2,046,576  

Series 2007-9T1, Class 1A10,

6.00%, 05/25/2037

    1,099,731        809,377  

Series 2007-HY4, Class 1A1,

3.73% (A), 06/25/2037

    1,426,200        1,219,395  

American Home Mortgage Assets Trust

    

Series 2006-4, Class 1A12,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.21%, 2.30% (A), 10/25/2046

      2,291,403          1,677,065  

Series 2006-5, Class A1,

    

12-MTA + 0.92%, 2.48% (A), 11/25/2046

    6,536,556        3,588,869  

Series 2007-1, Class A1,

    

12-MTA + 0.70%, 2.26% (A), 02/25/2047

    3,742,048        2,432,243  

Ashford Hospitality Trust
Series 2018-AHT1, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.05% (A), 05/15/2035 (B) (C) (D)

    7,500,000        7,500,087  

Banc of America Funding Trust

    

Series 2005-D, Class A1,

3.91% (A), 05/25/2035

    3,648,981        3,812,696  

Series 2006-D, Class 5A1,

3.88% (A), 05/20/2036

    319,175        304,012  

Series 2006-J, Class 4A1,

4.05% (A), 01/20/2047

    63,165        60,637  

BBCMS Trust
Series 2015-STP, Class A,
3.32%, 09/10/2028 (B)

    6,522,337        6,525,646  

BCAP LLC Trust
Series 2013-RR12, Class 1A3,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.46% (A), 05/26/2035 (B)

    68,533        68,110  

Bear Stearns Alt-A Trust

    

Series 2005-8, Class 21A1,

3.69% (A), 10/25/2035

    2,393,820        2,404,944  

Series 2006-6, Class 31A1,

3.67% (A), 11/25/2036

    3,742,694        3,472,336  

Series 2006-6, Class 32A1,

3.59% (A), 11/25/2036

    672,205        567,983  

Series 2006-8, Class 3A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.16%, 2.25% (A), 02/25/2034

    384,615        384,373  

Series 2006-R1, Class 2E21,

3.91% (A), 08/25/2036

    511,513        414,643  

Bear Stearns ARM Trust

    

Series 2003-5, Class 2A1,

3.85% (A), 08/25/2033

    394,789        395,560  

Series 2003-8, Class 2A1,

3.81% (A), 01/25/2034

    27,495        28,099  

Series 2003-8, Class 4A1,

3.81% (A), 01/25/2034

    85,268        85,903  

Series 2003-9, Class 2A1,

3.83% (A), 02/25/2034

    58,701        59,753  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Bear Stearns ARM Trust (continued)

    

Series 2004-10, Class 22A1,

3.85% (A), 01/25/2035

    $   91,121        $   88,876  

Series 2006-4, Class 1A1,

4.23% (A), 10/25/2036

    258,698        248,463  

Bear Stearns Structured Products, Inc. Trust

    

Series 2007-R6, Class 1A1,

3.66% (A), 01/26/2036

    310,141        273,664  

Series 2007-R6, Class 2A1,

3.10% (A), 12/26/2046

    226,124        206,137  

Business Mortgage Finance 7 PLC
Series 7X, Class A1,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 2.00%, 2.64% (A), 02/15/2041 (G)

    GBP  2,277,821        2,988,623  

BX Trust
Series 2017-SLCT, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.92%, 2.99% (A), 07/15/2034 (B)

    $  8,500,000        8,497,307  

CHL Mortgage Pass-Through Trust

    

Series 2002-30, Class M,

3.67% (A), 10/19/2032

    28,736        27,615  

Series 2004-12, Class 11A1,

3.68% (A), 08/25/2034

    32,469        30,610  

Series 2005-HY10, Class 5A1,

3.32% (A), 02/20/2036

    96,726        83,290  

Series 2006-OA5, Class 2A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.30%, 2.39% (A), 04/25/2046

    59,921        4,577  

Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2016-P5, Class AAB,

2.84%, 10/10/2049

    7,200,000        6,966,295  

Series 2017-1500, Class A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.85%, 2.92% (A), 07/15/2032 (B)

    6,800,000        6,802,298  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-6, Class A2,
1-Year CMT + 2.15%, 4.24% (A), 09/25/2035

    134,839        136,505  

Citigroup Mortgage Loan Trust, Inc.
Series 2005-6, Class A1,
1-Year CMT + 2.10%, 3.41% (A), 09/25/2035

    191,115        193,686  

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp.
Series 2003-AR15, Class 2A1,
3.71% (A), 06/25/2033

    253,123        253,621  

CSMC Trust
Series 2008-3R, Class 1A2,
3.57% (A), 07/26/2037 (B)

    999,483        851,393  

Deutsche Alt-A Securities, Inc. Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2005-AR1, Class 2A1,
2.97% (A), 08/25/2035

    97,735        81,304  

Eurosail PLC
Series 2007-3X, Class A3C,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.95%, 1.58% (A), 06/13/2045 (G)

    GBP  2,115,152        2,777,432  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

First Horizon Mortgage Pass-Through Trust
Series 2005-AR3, Class 2A1,
3.94% (A), 08/25/2035

    $  28,732        $   23,997  

GreenPoint Mortgage Funding Trust

    

Series 2006-AR2, Class 4A1,

12-MTA + 2.00%, 3.56% (A), 03/25/2036

    6,956,586        6,517,097  

Series 2006-AR7, Class 1A32,

1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.29% (A), 12/25/2046

    549,081        498,350  

GS Mortgage Securities Corp. Trust
Series 2016-RENT, Class A,
3.20%, 02/10/2029 (B)

      6,000,000          5,989,766  

GS Mortgage Securities Trust

    

Series 2016-GS3, Class AAB,

2.78%, 10/10/2049

    4,400,000        4,263,735  

Series 2016-GS3, Class WMA,

3.72% (A), 10/10/2049 (B)

    2,000,000        1,951,617  

GSR Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-12, Class 1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.43% (A), 12/25/2034

    287,239        263,342  

Series 2005-8F, Class 2A6,

5.50%, 11/25/2035

    3,567,807        3,554,348  

Series 2005-AR6, Class 2A1,

3.68% (A), 09/25/2035

    180,201        183,592  

Series 2006-AR1, Class 2A1,

3.73% (A), 01/25/2036

    3,189        3,159  

HarborView Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2006-5, Class 2A1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.18%, 2.26% (A), 07/19/2046

    710,008        462,091  

Series 2006-7, Class 2A1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.28% (A), 09/19/2046

    322,742        288,482  

Hilton USA Trust
Series 2016-SFP, Class A,
2.83%, 11/05/2035 (B)

    8,600,000        8,358,147  

Independent National Mortgage Corp. Index Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2006-AR12, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.19%, 2.28% (A), 09/25/2046

    425,288        392,166  

Series 2006-AR35, Class 2A1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.17%, 2.26% (A), 01/25/2037

    6,687,369        6,375,176  

Series 2006-R1, Class A3,

3.64% (A), 12/25/2035

    3,605,338        3,435,104  

Luminent Mortgage Trust
Series 2006-6, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.20%, 2.29% (A), 10/25/2046

    276,156        266,783  

MASTR Alternative Loan Trust
Series 2006-2, Class 2A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.49% (A), 03/25/2036

    231,708        47,655  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust

    

Series 2005-2, Class 1A,

    

6-Month LIBOR + 1.25%, 3.72% (A), 10/25/2035

    2,537,999        2,561,814  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust (continued)

 

Series 2005-2, Class 3A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 2.98% (A), 10/25/2035

    $   25,262        $   24,132  

Series 2005-3, Class 4A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.34% (A), 11/25/2035

    7,030        6,804  

Morgan Stanley Bank of America Merrill Lynch Trust

    

Series 2015-C20, Class ASB,

3.07%, 02/15/2048

    6,000,000        5,947,396  

Series 2015-C27, Class ASB,

3.56%, 12/15/2047

      5,300,000          5,349,854  

Morgan Stanley Mortgage Loan Trust
Series 2007-14AR, Class 1A3,
3.99% (A), 10/25/2037

    1,016,026        897,224  

NACC Reperforming Loan REMIC Trust
Series 2004-R1, Class A1,
6.50%, 03/25/2034 (B)

    408,591        386,696  

RALI Trust

    

Series 2005-QA13, Class 2A1,

4.52% (A), 12/25/2035

    2,079,577        1,884,463  

Series 2005-QO3, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.89% (A), 10/25/2045

    250,151        224,120  

Series 2006-QO6, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.18%, 2.27% (A), 06/25/2046

    5,490,933        2,387,425  

Series 2007-QO2, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.15%, 2.24% (A), 02/25/2047

    4,015,333        2,543,815  

RBSSP Resecuritization Trust
Series 2009-6, Class 2A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.15%, 3.48% (A), 01/26/2036 (B)

    2,805,633        2,834,358  

Reperforming Loan REMIC Trust

    

Series 2003-R4, Class 2A,

5.03% (A), 01/25/2034 (B)

    329,393        314,835  

Series 2004-R1, Class 2A,

6.50%, 11/25/2034 (B)

    196,486        195,101  

Series 2005-R2, Class 1AF1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.43% (A), 06/25/2035 (B)

    371,865        357,887  

Series 2006-R1, Class AF1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.34%, 2.43% (A), 01/25/2036 (B)

    3,537,289        3,469,741  

Residential Asset Securitization Trust
Series 2007-A2, Class 2A2,
6.50%, 04/25/2037

    4,228,651        2,354,131  

RFMSI Trust

    

Series 2003-S9, Class A1,

6.50%, 03/25/2032

    4,340        4,455  

Series 2005-SA4, Class 1A21,

3.86% (A), 09/25/2035

    472,539        400,294  

RMAC Securities No. 1 PLC
Series 2007-NS1X, Class A2B,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.15%, 2.48% (A), 06/12/2044 (G)

    8,100,381        7,846,005  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

Sequoia Mortgage Trust

    

Series 2004-12, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.54%, 2.62% (A), 01/20/2035

    $   567,212        $   561,056  

Series 2010, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.76%, 2.84% (A), 10/20/2027

    14,404        13,768  

Silverstone Master Issuer PLC
Series 2015-1A, Class 1A,
3-Month GBP LIBOR + 0.37%, 1.12% (A), 01/21/2070 (B)

    GBP  819,968        1,082,212  

Structured Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan Trust

    

Series 2004-12, Class 3A1,

3.74% (A), 09/25/2034

    $  80,939          80,773  

Series 2004-20, Class 3A1,

3.56% (A), 01/25/2035

    79,893        79,223  

Series 2005-1, Class 1A1,

3.57% (A), 02/25/2035

    244,299        244,249  

Series 2005-17, Class 3A1,

3.73% (A), 08/25/2035

    45,450        45,416  

Series 2005-18, Class 3A1,

3.70% (A), 09/25/2035

    1,267,458        1,125,597  

Series 2006-8, Class 1A2,

3.52% (A), 09/25/2036

    3,259,301        2,541,618  

Structured Asset Mortgage Investments II Trust

    

Series 2005-AR5, Class A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.33% (A), 07/19/2035

    62,490        60,967  

Series 2005-AR5, Class A2,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.33% (A), 07/19/2035

    37,061        36,183  

Series 2005-AR5, Class A3,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.25%, 2.33% (A), 07/19/2035

    91,595        89,072  

Series 2005-AR8, Class A1A,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.28%, 2.37% (A), 02/25/2036

    170,020        157,018  

Series 2006-AR3, Class 12A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.22%, 2.31% (A), 05/25/2036

    1,134,248        1,029,459  

Series 2006-AR6, Class 2A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.19%, 2.28% (A), 07/25/2046

    2,667,387        2,241,645  

Series 2006-AR7, Class A1BG,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.12%,
2.21% (A), 08/25/2036

    2,844,450        2,586,193  

Structured Asset Mortgage Investments
Trust
Series 2002-AR3, Class A1,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.66%,
2.74% (A), 09/19/2032

    14,870        14,520  

WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust

 

Series 2003-AR9, Class 2A,

3.36% (A), 09/25/2033

    1,157,423        1,172,073  

Series 2005-AR13, Class A1A1,

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.29%, 2.38% (A), 10/25/2045

    2,356,781        2,357,168  
     Principal      Value  
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES (continued)  

WaMu Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates Trust (continued)

 

Series 2006-AR10, Class 1A1,

3.32% (A), 09/25/2036

    $   713,593        $   691,362  

Series 2006-AR17, Class 1A,

    

12-MTA + 0.82%,
2.28% (A), 12/25/2046

    3,488,944        3,153,883  

Series 2006-AR19, Class 1A1A,

    

12-MTA + 0.73%,
2.29% (A), 01/25/2047

    126,030        125,707  

Series 2006-AR3, Class A1A,

    

12-MTA + 1.00%,
2.56% (A), 02/25/2046

    551,231        550,608  

Series 2006-AR7, Class 2A,

    

12-MTA + 0.98%,
2.54% (A), 07/25/2046

      148,494          140,949  

Series 2006-AR7, Class 3A,

1-COFI + 1.50%, 2.40% (A), 07/25/2046

    1,078,014        1,049,431  

Series 2006-AR9, Class 2A,

1-COFI + 1.50%, 2.40% (A), 08/25/2046

    910,053        882,829  

Series 2007-HY1, Class 1A1,

3.31% (A), 02/25/2037

    376,804        346,709  

Series 2007-HY4, Class 2A2,

3.09% (A), 04/25/2037

    3,181,691        2,932,316  

Wells Fargo Alternative Loan Trust
Series 2007-PA2, Class 1A1,
6.00%, 06/25/2037

    4,452,656        4,497,615  

Wells Fargo Mortgage-Backed Securities Trust

    

Series 2004-CC, Class A1,

3.75% (A), 01/25/2035

    98,966        101,126  

Series 2005-AR2, Class 1A1,

3.87% (A), 03/25/2035

    1,353,782        1,370,411  

Series 2006-AR8, Class 2A4,

3.93% (A), 04/25/2036

    185,637        188,457  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $197,862,245)

 

     204,828,527  
    

 

 

 
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 0.4%  
California - 0.1%  

Metropolitan Water District of Southern
California, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
6.95%, 07/01/2040

    3,000,000        3,226,860  
    

 

 

 
Illinois - 0.1%  

State of Illinois, General Obligation Unlimited,
6.63%, 02/01/2035

    2,000,000        2,119,220  
    

 

 

 
Kentucky - 0.0% (L)  

Kentucky State Property & Building
Commission, Revenue Bonds

    

Series C,

    

4.30%, 11/01/2019

    500,000        507,245  

4.40%, 11/01/2020

    600,000        613,110  
    

 

 

 
       1,120,355  
    

 

 

 
New York - 0.1%  

New York City Transitional Finance
Authority Future Tax Secured Revenue, Revenue Bonds

    

4.73%, 11/01/2023

    900,000        956,232  

4.91%, 11/01/2024

    600,000        644,772  
    

 

 

 
       1,601,004  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
West Virginia - 0.1%  

Tobacco Settlement Finance Authority, Revenue Bonds,
Series A,
7.47%, 06/01/2047

    $   2,200,000        $   2,192,278  
    

 

 

 

Total Municipal Government Obligations
(Cost $10,172,087)

 

     10,259,717  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 58.2%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

12-Month LIBOR + 1.35%, 3.13% (A), 09/01/2035

      50,565          52,360  

3.50%, TBA (C)

    29,000,000        28,847,773  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.87%, 3.62% (A), 09/01/2035

    448,285        472,954  

1-Year CMT + 2.23%, 3.75% (A), 08/01/2023

    14,842        15,141  

4.00%, TBA (C)

    16,000,000        16,285,208  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
Multifamily Structured Pass-Through
Certificates, Interest Only STRIPS
1.39% (A), 08/25/2022

    17,527,611        756,709  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.
REMIC

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.35%, 2.42% (A), 12/15/2029

    20,698        20,727  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 2.47% (A), 06/15/2041

    6,133,361        6,166,864  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

    

Structured Pass-Through Certificates

    

12-MTA + 1.20%,
2.66% (A), 10/25/2044

    768,047        767,246  

12-MTA + 1.40%,
2.84% (A), 07/25/2044

    381,393        383,535  

6.50%, 07/25/2043

    51,327        57,778  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

12-MTA + 1.20%,
2.66% (A), 06/01/2043

    96,786        98,121  

3.00%, TBA (C)

    312,000,000        302,062,488  

1-Year CMT + 1.71%, 3.09% (A), 08/01/2035

    9,760        10,117  

12-Month LIBOR + 1.35%, 3.10% (A), 12/01/2034

    5,546        5,752  

1-Year CMT + 2.14%, 3.14% (A), 07/01/2032

    5,099        5,192  

6-Month LIBOR + 1.38%, 3.15% (A), 08/01/2035

    300,150        309,026  

1-Year CMT + 2.04%, 3.17% (A), 09/01/2035

    528,072        555,739  

6-Month LIBOR + 1.61%, 3.23% (A), 08/01/2036

    48,717        50,416  

1-Year CMT + 2.18%, 3.41% (A), 10/01/2035

    5,727        6,006  

3.50%, 02/01/2026

    93,131        94,459  

3.50%, TBA (C)

    399,000,000        396,763,104  

1-Year CMT + 2.22%, 3.70% (A), 01/01/2028

    18,697        19,613  

1-Year CMT + 2.24%, 3.79% (A), 01/01/2036

    3,742,134        3,949,708  
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS (continued)  

Federal National Mortgage Association (continued)

 

6-Month LIBOR + 1.75%, 3.90% (A), 05/01/2035

    $   427,334        $   446,613  

4.00%, 12/01/2040 - 03/01/2041

    391,245        401,022  

4.00%, TBA (C)

    508,500,000        517,768,444  

4.50%, 05/01/2019 - 07/01/2041

    71,018        73,921  

4.50%, TBA (C)

    73,000,000        75,875,003  

5.00%, 10/01/2020 - 06/01/2037

    337,693        354,481  

5.00%, TBA (C)

    42,250,000        44,225,788  

5.50%, 01/01/2025 - 09/01/2027

    128,972        134,913  

Federal National Mortgage Association
REMIC
1-Month LIBOR + 0.45%, 2.36% (A), 09/25/2046

      5,744,473          5,747,319  

Government National Mortgage
Association

    

1-Month LIBOR + 0.37%, 2.29% (A), 06/20/2061 - 10/20/2066

    6,763,304        6,769,183  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.58%, 2.50% (A), 06/20/2065

    4,822,637        4,845,584  

12-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.50% (A), 09/20/2067

    5,025,236        5,212,578  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.52% (A), 04/20/2065 - 10/20/2065

    44,140,588        44,381,740  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.62%, 2.54% (A), 09/20/2065

    6,283,794        6,323,295  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.68%, 2.60% (A), 03/20/2062

    1,922,649        1,926,507  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.62% (A), 10/20/2065

    2,888,475        2,896,300  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.75%, 2.67% (A), 08/20/2067

    4,075,527        4,142,192  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.77%, 2.69% (A), 10/20/2066

    7,965,051        8,071,462  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.78%, 2.70% (A), 09/20/2066

    11,324,634        11,474,949  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.80%, 2.72% (A), 06/20/2066

    5,898,324        5,984,382  

1-Month LIBOR + 0.95%, 2.87% (A), 12/20/2066

    2,838,651        2,898,424  

3.00%, TBA (C)

    7,000,000        6,849,336  

3.50%, TBA (C)

    5,000,000        5,019,238  

4.00%, TBA (C)

    20,000,000        20,467,500  

Overseas Private Investment Corp.
2.07%, 05/15/2021

    7,982,437        7,932,945  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $1,539,874,810)

 

     1,547,979,155  
  

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 20.2%  
U.S. Treasury - 20.1%  

U.S. Treasury Bond

    

2.75%, 08/15/2042 (M)

    9,600,000        9,238,125  

2.75%, 11/15/2042 (N) (O)

    17,700,000        17,026,570  

2.88%, 05/15/2043 (M)

    13,800,000        13,559,578  

2.88%, 08/15/2045 (N)

    24,500,000        24,010,957  

3.00%, 05/15/2042

    4,700,000        4,728,641  

3.00%, 11/15/2044 - 02/15/2048 (N)

    70,500,000        70,773,317  

3.13%, 02/15/2043

    4,500,000        4,619,707  

3.13%, 08/15/2044 (N)

    66,900,000        68,695,324  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
U.S. Treasury (continued)  

U.S. Treasury Bond (continued)

    

3.38%, 05/15/2044 (N)

    $   35,800,000        $   38,366,133  

3.63%, 08/15/2043

    14,800,000        16,497,375  

3.63%, 02/15/2044 (M)

    9,300,000        10,374,949  

3.75%, 11/15/2043 (N)

    12,400,000        14,096,766  

4.25%, 05/15/2039

    2,000,000        2,412,578  

4.38%, 11/15/2039 - 05/15/2040

    1,800,000        2,213,032  

4.50%, 08/15/2039 (M)

    3,100,000        3,865,434  

4.63%, 02/15/2040

    1,100,000        1,396,141  

U.S. Treasury Note

    

1.75%, 09/30/2022 (M) (O) (P)

    5,600,000        5,386,281  

1.88%, 07/31/2022 (M) (N) (O) (P)

      32,500,000          31,462,793  

1.88%, 08/31/2022 (O) (P)

    2,300,000        2,224,980  

2.00%, 10/31/2022 (O)

    200,000        194,195  

2.13%, 09/30/2024 (N)

    65,900,000        63,351,523  

2.25%, 10/31/2024 (N) (O)

    14,500,000        14,036,113  

2.25%, 08/15/2027 (N) (P)

    81,200,000        77,282,734  

2.38%, 05/15/2027 (N)

    39,300,000        37,846,207  
    

 

 

 
       533,659,453  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 0.1%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond
0.88%, 02/15/2047 (N)

    2,905,420        2,905,442  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $551,781,763)

 

     536,564,895  
    

 

 

 
COMMERCIAL PAPER - 0.4%  
Consumer Finance - 0.4%  

Ford Motor Credit Co.
2.07% (E), 09/04/2018

    10,800,000        10,760,400  
    

 

 

 

Total Commercial Paper
(Cost $10,760,400)

 

     10,760,400  
    

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 17.4%  
Argentina - 1.6%  

Argentina Treasury Bill

    

0.00% (E), 09/14/2018

    ARS  275,400,000        9,947,438  

3.54% (E), 02/22/2019

    $  28,500,000        27,583,725  

Bonos de la Nacion Argentina CON Ajuste por CER
3.75% (E), 02/08/2019

    ARS  95,700,000        3,589,784  
    

 

 

 
       41,120,947  
    

 

 

 
Greece - 1.4%  

Hellenic Republic Treasury Bill

    

0.60% (E), 08/10/2018

    EUR  2,200,000        2,567,130  

0.71% (E), 11/02/2018

    1,600,000        1,862,893  

0.80% (E), 07/13/2018

    5,500,000        6,421,744  

1.08% (E), 10/05/2018

    12,300,000        14,328,605  

1.22% (E), 03/15/2019

    6,700,000        7,768,004  

1.27% (E), 03/15/2019

    4,500,000        5,217,316  
    

 

 

 
       38,165,692  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 14.4%  

Japan Treasury Discount Bill
0.00% (E), 07/30/2018 - 08/27/2018

    JPY  42,400,000,000        383,014,921  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $473,464,566)

 

     462,301,560  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.5%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (E)

      39,660,855        $   39,660,855  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $39,660,855)

 

     39,660,855  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 0.4%  

Citigroup Global Markets, Inc., 2.22% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $2,000,370 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 2.00%, due 10/31/2022, and with a value of $2,046,373.

    $  2,000,000        2,000,000  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (E), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $8,234,883 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.75%, due 05/31/2022, and with a value of $8,399,372.

    8,234,265        8,234,265  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $10,234,265)

 

     10,234,265  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments Excluding Purchased Options/Swaptions (Cost $4,549,959,697)

 

     4,524,994,007  

Total Purchased Options/Swaptions - 0.0% (L)
(Cost $2,746,832)

 

     1,051,207  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $4,552,706,529)

 

     4,526,045,214  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (70.3)%

 

     (1,867,670,661
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  2,658,374,553  
    

 

 

 
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - (15.5)%  

Bank of Montreal, 2.06% (E), dated 05/23/2018, to be repurchased at $(151,716,243) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.63%, due 12/31/2023 - 08/15/2044, and with a total value of $(151,483,360).

    $  (151,309,305      $  (151,309,305

Bank of Montreal, 2.07% (E), dated 05/16/2018, to be repurchased at $(4,647,008) on 07/17/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.63%, due 12/31/2023 - 08/15/2044, and with a total value of $(4,577,042).

    (4,630,500      (4,630,500

Bank of Montreal, 2.16% (E), dated 06/12/2018, to be repurchased at $(3,268,623) on 07/12/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.25% - 3.63%, due 12/31/2023 - 08/15/2044, and with a total value of $(3,225,502).

      (3,262,750        (3,262,750
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

Bank of Nova Scotia, 1.98% (E), dated 05/03/2018, to be repurchased at $(21,174,052) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 3.38% - 3.63%, due 02/15/2044 - 05/15/2044, and with a total value of $(21,126,986).

    $   (21,094,000      $   (21,094,000

Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, 2.01% (E), dated 05/08/2018, to be repurchased at $(43,307,524) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.88% - 3.00%, due 11/15/2044 - 08/15/2045 and Cash with a total value of $(43,440,060).

    (43,158,125      (43,158,125

Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, 2.03% (E), dated 05/10/2018, to be repurchased at $(48,949,194) on 07/10/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.13%, due 09/30/2024, and Cash with a total value of $(48,591,250).

    (48,781,400      (48,781,400

Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., 2.10% (E), dated 06/27/2018, to be repurchased at $(785,516) on 07/11/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.63%, due 02/15/2044, and with a value of $(790,621).

    (784,875      (784,875

JPMorgan Securities LLC, 1.70% (E), dated 05/30/2018, to be repurchased at $(8,306,347) on 07/05/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.00%, due 02/15/2048 and with a value of $(8,321,728).

    (8,292,250      (8,292,250

Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, 2.06% (E), dated 05/07/2018, to be repurchased at $(6,194,038) on 08/08/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 3.00%, due 05/15/2045, and with a value of $(6,249,306).

    (6,161,250      (6,161,250

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.06% (E), dated 05/25/2018, to be repurchased at $(9,257,527) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 3.13% - 3.75%, due 11/15/2043 - 08/15/2044, and Cash with a total value of $(9,275,331).

    (9,233,750      (9,233,750
     Principal      Value  
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS (continued)  

RBS Securities, Inc., 2.11% (E), dated 06/08/2018, to be repurchased at $(25,821,793) on 07/09/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 3.13% - 3.75%, due 11/15/2043 - 08/15/2044, and Cash with a total value of $(25,715,617).

    $   (25,774,961      $   (25,774,961

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.07% (E), dated 05/16/2018, to be repurchased at $(11,315,425) on 07/16/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 3.00%, due 05/15/2045, and Cash with a total value of $(11,287,100).

    (11,275,875      (11,275,875

Royal Bank of Canada, 2.08% (E), dated 05/17/2018, to be repurchased at $(6,683,473) on 07/17/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.75%, due 11/15/2042, and Cash with a total value of $(6,654,768).

    (6,660,000      (6,660,000

Standard Chartered Bank, 2.12% (E), dated 06/05/2018, to be repurchased at $(2,990,755) on 08/06/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.13%, due 09/30/2024, and Cash with a total value of $(2,929,739).

    (2,979,875      (2,979,875

Standard Chartered Bank, 2.12% (E), dated 05/22/2018, to be repurchased at $(32,684,121) on 08/22/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.38%, due 05/15/2027, and Cash with a total value of $(32,502,336).

    (32,508,000      (32,508,000

Standard Chartered Bank, 2.13% (E), dated 05/24/2018, to be repurchased at $(21,153,020) on 08/24/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 3.38% - 3.63%, due 08/15/2043 - 05/15/2044, and Cash with a total value of $(21,285,167).

    (21,038,500      (21,038,500

Standard Chartered Bank, 2.16% (E), dated 06/13/2018, to be repurchased at $(14,039,271) on 08/13/2018. Collateralized by U.S. Government Obligations, 2.13% - 2.75%, due 09/30/2024 - 11/15/2042, and Cash with a total value of $(13,815,522).

    (13,988,075      (13,988,075
    

 

 

 

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements
(Cost $410,933,491)

 

     $  (410,933,491
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Call - 10-Year Canada Government Bond Futures

    CAD        159.50        08/17/2018        CAD        36,911,700        270      $   2,486      $   1,027  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        132.50        08/24/2018        USD        480,760        4        33        4  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        133.50        08/24/2018        USD        4,807,600        40        328        40  

Call - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        136.00        08/24/2018        USD        41,585,740        346        2,837        346  

Call - U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        170.00        08/24/2018        USD        59,740,000        412        3,378        412  

Call - U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        174.00        08/24/2018        USD        75,690,000        522        4,280        522  

Call - U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        175.00        08/24/2018        USD        103,240,000        712        6,053        712  

Put - 05-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        106.25        08/24/2018        USD        170,430,000        1,500        12,825        1,500  

Put - 05-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        106.50        08/24/2018        USD        203,038,940        1,787        15,279        1,787  

Put - 05-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        106.75        08/24/2018        USD        146,228,940        1,287        11,004        1,287  

Put - 05-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        107.00        08/24/2018        USD        105,780,220        931        7,960        931  

Put - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        106.50        08/24/2018        USD        36,057,000        300        2,565        300  

Put - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        107.00        08/24/2018        USD        56,128,730        467        3,993        467  

Put - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        107.50        08/24/2018        USD        33,653,200        280        2,394        280  

Put - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        108.00        08/24/2018        USD        16,826,600        140        1,197        140  

Put - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD        108.50        08/24/2018        USD        480,760        4        34        4  
                   

 

 

 

Total

              $   76,646      $   9,759  
                   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER OPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Counterparty      Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
Paid
     Value  

Put - Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.00%, TBA

    JPM        USD        67.00        07/05/2018        USD       77,496,000        80,000,000      $     3,125      $   —  

Put - Federal National Mortgage Association, 3.50%, TBA

    JPM        USD        69.00        07/05/2018        USD       194,083,500        195,000,000        7,617         
                     

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                 $   10,742      $   —  
                     

 

 

    

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS PURCHASED:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate
Index
    Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
  Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
    Notional Amount/
Number of
Contracts
    Premiums
Paid
    Value  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    MSC       3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay     2.91     08/20/2018       USD       12,500,000     $ 1,232,800     $ 232,095  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay     2.93       08/20/2018       USD       4,600,000       488,244       72,921  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay     2.94       08/20/2018       USD       4,000,000       391,200       59,386  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    GSB       3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay     2.94       12/12/2019       USD       2,300,000       110,400       137,331  

Put - Receives Floating Rate Index 3-Month USD-LIBOR (D)

    MLI       3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay     2.95       12/09/2019       USD       9,100,000       436,800       539,715  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

        $   2,659,444     $   1,041,448  
               

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

EXCHANGE-TRADED OPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
     Number of
Contracts
     Premiums
(Received)
     Value  

Put - 10-Year U.S. Treasury Note Futures

    USD       119.50        07/27/2018       USD       27,403,320        228      $   (46,040    $   (42,750

OVER-THE-COUNTER FOREIGN EXCHANGE OPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description    Counterparty      Exercise
Price
     Expiration
Date
     Notional Amount/
Number of Contracts
     Premiums
(Received)
     Value  

Call - USD vs. MXN

     RBS        USD        19.25        07/19/2018        USD        12,100,000      $ (178,354    $ (482,814

Call - USD vs. MXN

     JPM        USD        19.50        08/21/2018        USD        12,100,000        (199,529      (470,363

Call - USD vs. MXN

     JPM        USD        21.20        07/05/2018        USD        7,844,000        (67,913      (2,243

Call - USD vs. MXN

     MSCS        USD        21.25        07/11/2018        USD        2,056,000        (19,553      (1,894

Call - USD vs. MXN

     MSC        USD        21.85        08/17/2018        USD        6,800,000        (69,224      (20,563

Call - USD vs. RUB

     HSBC        USD        65.96        08/24/2018        USD        13,300,000        (113,848      (100,947

Call - USD vs. RUB

     DUB        USD        66.09        08/27/2018        USD        5,500,000        (48,675      (42,411

Call - USD vs. RUB

     CITI        USD        66.19        08/24/2018        USD        5,500,000        (45,732      (38,610

Call - USD vs. RUB

     BNP        USD        66.40        08/24/2018        USD        6,500,000        (54,671      (42,478

Call - USD vs. RUB

     CITI        USD        66.49        08/17/2018        USD        7,000,000        (64,505      (37,590

Call - USD vs. RUB

     CITI        USD        66.55        08/17/2018        USD        7,000,000        (66,920      (36,792

Call - USD vs. RUB

     CITI        USD        67.40        08/17/2018        USD        7,900,000        (73,904      (30,786

Put - AUD vs. USD

     UBS        AUD        0.72        08/20/2018        AUD        13,500,000        (54,557      (47,356

Put - AUD vs. USD

     GSB        AUD        0.73        08/23/2018        AUD        9,900,000        (39,476      (46,010

Put - GBP vs. USD

     DUB        GBP        1.33        07/13/2018        GBP        4,057,000        (25,899      (45,795

Put - GBP vs. USD

     HSBC        GBP        1.33        07/12/2018        GBP        5,543,000        (36,810      (85,261
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

                     $   (1,159,570    $   (1,531,913
                    

 

 

    

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
     Notional Amount/
Number of Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    JPM       Pay       0.73     07/18/2018        USD       2,500,000     $ (2,313   $ (1,020

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    MLI       Pay       0.75       07/18/2018        USD       6,200,000       (8,060     (2,070

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    CITI       Pay       0.85       07/18/2018        USD       4,800,000       (5,040     (1,017

Put - North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    BCLY       Pay       0.95       07/18/2018        USD       6,900,000       (11,868     (918
              

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

               $   (27,281   $   (5,025
              

 

 

   

 

 

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER INTEREST RATE SWAPTIONS WRITTEN:

 

Description   Counterparty     Floating Rate
Index
  Pay/Receive
Floating Rate
    Exercise
Rate
    Expiration
Date
     Notional Amount/
Number of Contracts
    Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

Put - 5-Year

    MLI     3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay       2.75     12/09/2019        USD       40,100,000     $ (438,002   $ (793,624)  

Put - 5-Year

    GSB     3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay       2.75       12/12/2019        USD       10,100,000       (110,182     (200,311)  

Put - 5-Year

    MSC     3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay       2.80       08/20/2018        USD       55,100,000       (1,229,497     (360,124)  

Put - 5-Year

    GSB     3-Month USD-LIBOR     Pay       2.80       08/20/2018        USD       37,600,000       (875,827     (245,747)  
                

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                 $   (2,653,508   $   (1,599,806)  
                

 

 

   

 

 

 
                                              Premiums
(Received)
    Value  

TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS AND SWAPTIONS

 

  $   (3,886,399   $   (3,179,494

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

CENTRALLY CLEARED SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Corporate and Sovereign Issues - Sell Protection (Q)         
Reference Obligation   Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Implied Credit
Spread at
June 30,
2018 (T)
    Notional
Amount (R)
    Value (S)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

MetLife, Inc., 4.75%, 02/08/2021

    1.00     Quarterly       06/20/2021       0.32       USD       1,400,000     $ 27,752     $ 28,527     $ (775

MetLife, Inc., 4.75%, 02/08/2021

    1.00       Quarterly       12/20/2021       0.38       USD       4,500,000       91,844       96,841       (4,997

Tesco PLC, 6.00%, 12/14/2029

    1.00       Quarterly       06/20/2022       0.69       EUR       9,700,000       72,653       39,096       33,557  
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   192,249     $   164,464     $   27,785  
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (Q)  
Reference Obligation   Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (R)
    Value (S)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

North America High Yield Index - Series 30

    5.00     Quarterly       06/20/2023     USD     2,400,000     $ 141,223     $ 135,003     $ 6,220  

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 28

    1.00       Quarterly       06/20/2022     USD     35,300,000       591,408       666,870       (75,462

North America Investment Grade Index - Series 30

    1.00       Quarterly       06/20/2023     USD     297,800,000       4,488,335       4,817,267       (328,932
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

            $   5,220,966     $   5,619,140     $   (398,174
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Interest Rate Swap Agreements  
Floating Rate Index   Pay/Receive
Fixed Rate
  Fixed
Rate
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

3-Month CAD-CDOR

  Pay     1.75     Semi-Annually       12/16/2046     CAD     1,900,000     $ 269,273     $ 253,309     $ 15,964  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

  Receive     1.96      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
    12/05/2019     USD     218,300,000       (2,344,696           (2,344,696

3-Month USD-LIBOR

  Pay     2.25      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
    06/20/2028     USD     49,600,000       2,933,623       2,741,661       191,962  

3-Month USD-LIBOR

  Pay     2.50      
Semi-Annually/
Quarterly
 
 
    12/20/2027     USD     30,000,000       1,135,586       684,130       451,456  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Receive     1.25      
Semi-Annually/
Annually
 
 
    09/19/2028     EUR     115,000,000       4,304,741       3,225,669       1,079,072  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Receive     1.25      
Semi-Annually/
Annually
 
 
    12/19/2028     EUR     22,700,000       707,600       387,328       320,272  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Receive     1.50      
Semi-Annually/
Annually
 
 
    09/19/2048     EUR     9,300,000       80,845       (105,584     186,429  

6-Month EUR-EURIBOR

  Receive     1.50      
Semi-Annually/
Annually

 
    07/04/2042     EUR     25,400,000       434,515             434,515  

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

  Pay     1.50       Semi-Annually       09/19/2023     GBP     31,400,000       (318,333     (19,113     (299,220

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

  Pay     1.50       Semi-Annually       09/19/2028     GBP     23,500,000       146,776       547,039       (400,263

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

  Pay     1.50       Semi-Annually       12/19/2028     GBP     9,000,000       86,343       149,526       (63,183

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

  Pay     1.50       Semi-Annually       12/19/2048     GBP     12,200,000       539,463       57,400       482,063  

6-Month GBP-LIBOR

  Pay     1.75       Semi-Annually       09/19/2048     GBP     13,600,000       (541,533     (707,268     165,735  

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.30       Semi-Annually       03/18/2026     JPY     13,500,000,000       (1,041,269     (767,160     (274,109

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.30       Semi-Annually       03/18/2026     JPY     15,040,000,000       (1,170,735     (711,056     (459,679

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.30       Semi-Annually       09/20/2027     JPY     2,830,000,000       (122,403     (31,882     (90,521

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.30       Semi-Annually       03/20/2028     JPY     1,710,000,000       (46,088     117,620       (163,708

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.38       Semi-Annually       06/18/2028     JPY     150,000,000       (12,581     2,359       (14,940

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.40       Semi-Annually       06/18/2028     JPY     1,050,000,000       (106,055     (871     (105,184

6-Month JPY-LIBOR

  Pay     0.45       Semi-Annually       03/20/2029     JPY     1,160,000,000       (113,251     (85,390     (27,861

BRL-CDI

  Receive     7.50       Maturity       01/02/2020     BRL     151,000,000       (334,780     (124,058     (210,722

BRL-CDI

  Receive     7.75       Maturity       01/02/2020     BRL     698,800,000       (998,786     (1,198,782     199,996  

BRL-CDI

  Receive     10.04       Maturity       01/02/2023     BRL     306,200,000       (1,124,252     16,130       (1,140,382
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   2,364,003     $   4,431,007     $   (2,067,004
             

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

OVER-THE-COUNTER SWAP AGREEMENTS:

 

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Corporate and Sovereign Issues - Sell Protection (Q)  
Reference Obligation   Counterparty   Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Implied Credit
Spread at
June 30,
2018 (T)
    Notional
Amount (R)
    Value (S)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Petrobras Global Finance BV, 8.38%, 12/10/2018

  GSI     1.00     Quarterly       12/20/2019       0.79       USD       900,000     $ (8,975   $ (28,360   $ 19,385  

Petrobras Global Finance BV, 8.38%, 12/10/2018

  BNP     1.00       Quarterly       03/20/2020       0.80       USD       200,000       (2,657     (12,786     10,129  

Petrobras Global Finance BV, 8.38%, 12/10/2018

  HSBC     1.00       Quarterly       03/20/2020       0.80       USD       100,000       (1,328     (6,060     4,732  

Petrobras International Finance Co. SA, 8.38%, 12/10/2018

  BCI     1.00       Quarterly       12/20/2019       0.75       USD       1,400,000       (13,960     (53,509     39,549  

Petrobras International Finance Co. SA, 8.38%, 12/10/2018

  BNP     1.00       Quarterly       12/20/2019       0.75       USD       1,000,000       (9,972     (27,211     17,239  
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

              $   (36,892   $   (127,926   $   91,034  
               

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Credit Default Swap Agreements on Credit Indices - Sell Protection (Q)  
Reference Obligation   Counterparty     Fixed Rate
Receivable
    Payment
Frequency
    Maturity
Date
    Notional
Amount (R)
    Value (S)     Premiums
Paid
(Received)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Home Equity ABS Index - Series 6-2

    BCI       0.11     Monthly       05/25/2046       USD       5,944,358       $  (464,977     $  (1,209,194     $  744,217  

 

      Value  

OTC Swap Agreements, at value (Liabilities)

   $   (501,869

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description   Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (740     06/17/2019     $   (181,252,995   $   (179,718,250   $   1,534,745     $   —  

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (81     09/16/2019       (19,845,859     (19,658,700     187,159        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (378     12/16/2019       (92,495,197     (91,698,075     797,122        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (814     03/16/2020       (197,644,254     (197,435,700     208,554        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (852     06/15/2020       (206,872,500     (206,652,600     219,900        

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (638     09/14/2020       (154,754,536     (154,754,875           (339

90-Day Eurodollar

    Short       (335     12/14/2020       (81,169,242     (81,254,250           (85,008

3-Month EURIBOR

    Long       1,826       09/17/2018       534,619,878       534,753,320       133,442        

3-Month EURIBOR

    Long       490       12/17/2018       143,432,622       143,463,210       30,588        

5-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       4,847       09/28/2018       552,265,202       550,702,510             (1,562,692

10-Year Australia Treasury Bond

    Short       (901     09/17/2018       (85,194,239     (86,256,431           (1,062,192

10-Year Canada Government Bond

    Short       (275     09/19/2018       (28,075,217     (28,597,155           (521,938

10-Year Japan Government Bond

    Short       (6     09/12/2018       (8,163,893     (8,174,502           (10,609

10-Year U.S. Treasury Note

    Long       38       09/19/2018       4,542,831       4,567,125       24,294        

Euro OAT Index

    Short       (1,215     09/06/2018       (216,781,324     (219,273,255           (2,491,931

German Euro Bund Index

    Short       (126     09/06/2018       (23,817,865     (23,918,063           (100,198

German Euro BUXL Index

    Short       (152     09/06/2018       (30,926,865     (31,542,746           (615,881

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS (continued):  
Description    Long/Short      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Date
     Notional
Amount
     Value      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

OTC Call Options Exercise Price EUR 152.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        200        08/24/2018      $ 2,537      $ 2,336      $      $ (201

OTC Call Options Exercise Price EUR 166.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        520        08/24/2018        6,595        6,073               (522

OTC Call Options Exercise Price EUR 168.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        242        08/24/2018        3,069        2,826               (243

OTC Call Options Exercise Price EUR 170.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        200        08/24/2018        2,537        2,336               (201

OTC Call Options Exercise Price EUR 180.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        197        08/24/2018        2,499        2,301               (198

OTC Call Options Exercise Price EUR 197.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        123        08/24/2018        1,560        1,436               (124

OTC Put Options Exercise Price EUR 144.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        400        08/24/2018        4,671        4,671                

OTC Put Options Exercise Price EUR 145.00 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Long        804        08/24/2018        10,196        9,389               (807

OTC Put Options Exercise Price EUR 160.50 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Short        (277      07/27/2018        (130,527      (38,818      91,709         

OTC Put Options Exercise Price EUR 161.50 on German Euro Bund Futures

     Short        (301      07/27/2018        (143,197      (108,967      34,230         

U.S. Treasury Bond

     Short        (1,762      09/19/2018        (248,500,042      (255,490,000             (6,989,958
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total                   $   3,261,743      $   (13,443,042
                 

 

 

    

 

 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS:

 

Counterparty      Settlement
Date
   Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BCLY

     07/16/2018    USD      2,295,000      ARS      61,161,750      $   218,036      $  

BCLY

     08/15/2018    GBP      4,455,000      USD      5,995,347                 (103,566

BCLY

     08/27/2018    USD      11,929,256      MXN      238,943,000        9,798         

BNP

     07/03/2018    USD      906,234      ARS      26,275,704        893         

BNP

     07/03/2018    ARS      26,275,704      USD      957,221               (51,880

BNP

     07/12/2018    USD      948,924      ARS      26,275,704        52,662         

BNP

     07/16/2018    USD      900,000      ARS      24,075,000        82,448         

BNP

     08/15/2018    USD      27,370,539      EUR      23,365,000               (8,997

BNP

     08/15/2018    USD      5,034,182      GBP      3,765,000        54,933         

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS (continued):

 

Counterparty      Settlement
Date
   Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

BNP

     08/15/2018    GBP      1,819,000      USD      2,422,270      $      $ (16,625

BNP

     08/15/2018    EUR      4,313,000      USD      5,039,910        14,143         

BNP

     08/27/2018    USD      37,626,922      JPY      4,080,000,000        627,039         

BNP

     08/27/2018    USD      9,727,709      MXN      195,275,000               (13,410

BNP

     09/19/2018    INR      60,931,005      USD      890,674               (9,800

BNP

     10/01/2018    USD      13,830,738      DKK      85,734,959        293,194         

BOA

     07/02/2018    USD      14,497,484      DKK      94,290,000               (283,819

BOA

     07/03/2018    USD      14,188,609      DKK      95,225,000               (740,376

BOA

     08/06/2018    USD      38,720,214      JPY      4,220,000,000        509,234         

BOA

     08/08/2018    USD      188,216      ILS      678,000        2,366         

BOA

     08/13/2018    USD      33,614,064      JPY      3,650,000,000        547,432         

BOA

     08/15/2018    USD      5,596,863      EUR      4,749,000        31,897         

BOA

     08/15/2018    USD      77,194,980      JPY      8,414,100,000        957,587         

BOA

     08/15/2018    USD      109,436      NOK      870,000        2,415         

BOA

     08/15/2018    USD      8,646,752      SEK      75,372,287        202,166         

BOA

     08/15/2018    EUR      11,210,000      USD      13,249,559               (113,475

BOA

     08/27/2018    USD      15,611,655      JPY      1,700,000,000        195,038         

BOA

     09/19/2018    USD      135,559      SGD      180,009        3,213         

BOA

     11/02/2018    USD      1,941,326      EUR      1,600,000        54,559         

CITI

     07/02/2018    USD      14,048,334      DKK      91,265,000               (258,758

CITI

     07/03/2018    GBP      32,913,000      USD      43,605,545               (162,957

CITI

     07/03/2018    CAD      8,018,000      USD      6,101,064        2,965        (4,690

CITI

     07/10/2018    USD      5,294,549      RUB      334,820,900               (31,240

CITI

     07/25/2018    MXN      373,882,249      USD      18,488,154        261,737         

CITI

     08/06/2018    USD      31,023,595      JPY      3,370,000,000        509,139         

CITI

     08/10/2018    USD      2,626,207      EUR      2,200,000        49,233         

CITI

     08/13/2018    USD      15,563,701      JPY      1,690,000,000        253,397         

CITI

     08/15/2018    USD      15,059,850      EUR      12,681,000        200,022         

CITI

     08/15/2018    USD      9,022,217      JPY      998,400,000               (23,957

CITI

     08/15/2018    JPY      6,297,000,000      USD      57,786,547               (731,500

CITI

     08/15/2018    EUR      37,182,000      USD      43,386,921        226,355        (42,726

CITI

     08/15/2018    GBP      4,665,000      USD      6,185,177               (15,669

CITI

     08/15/2018    SEK      27,515,000      USD      3,102,799               (20,063

CITI

     08/20/2018    USD      2,357,817      JPY      260,000,000        1,184         

CITI

     08/24/2018    RUB      2,090,006,986      USD      33,072,086        10,391         

CITI

     08/27/2018    USD      33,822,645      MXN      681,109,000        85,643        (239,511

CITI

     08/27/2018    MXN      52,957,000      USD      2,633,759        7,953         

DUB

     07/03/2018    USD      580,106      ARS      16,179,164        22,646         

DUB

     07/03/2018    USD      4,888,161      BRL      18,767,433        47,629         

DUB

     07/03/2018    BRL      18,767,433      USD      5,057,000               (216,468

DUB

     07/03/2018    ARS      16,179,164      USD      558,010               (550

DUB

     10/01/2018    USD      9,127,549      DKK      56,417,041        219,302         

DUB

     10/05/2018    USD      8,307,625      EUR      6,700,000        425,609         

GSB

     07/03/2018    USD      6,285,212      CAD      8,142,000        91,545         

GSB

     07/10/2018    RUB      284,421,220      USD      4,887,802               (363,691

GSB

     08/15/2018    USD      74,973,488      EUR      63,289,000        865,610        (55,333

GSB

     08/15/2018    USD      17,232,218      JPY      1,898,600,000        29,627         

GSB

     08/15/2018    GBP      843,000      USD      1,140,339               (25,463

GSB

     08/15/2018    EUR      19,188,000      USD      22,585,535        21,331        (122,015

GSB

     08/15/2018    JPY      1,444,200,000      USD      13,159,567               (74,145

GSB

     08/27/2018    RUB      152,682,420      USD      2,409,000        6,978         

GSB

     08/27/2018    MXN      13,782,083      USD      686,000        1,507         

GSB

     10/02/2018    USD      2,179,430      BRL      7,300,000        313,587         

GSB

     10/02/2018    USD      7,374,583      DKK      47,805,000               (174,507

HSBC

     07/10/2018    USD      23,474,446      RUB      1,500,510,094               (393,236

HSBC

     07/10/2018    RUB      946,992,681      USD      15,024,475        38,749         

HSBC

     08/24/2018    USD      33,175,314      RUB      2,085,856,881        194,354        (35,825

HSBC

     08/27/2018    USD      2,409,000      RUB      152,682,420               (6,978

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS (continued):

 

Counterparty      Settlement
Date
     Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

HSBC

       08/27/2018      MXN      108,086,000      USD      5,358,885      $ 32,888      $  

HSBC

       10/01/2018      DKK      739,000      USD      114,508        2,180         

HSBC

       10/05/2018      USD      6,977,820      EUR      5,600,000        389,867         

HSBC

       03/15/2019      USD      14,328,966      EUR      11,200,000        973,851         

JPM

       07/03/2018      USD      467,000      ARS      10,096,540        119,119         

JPM

       07/03/2018      USD      12,241,299      BRL      47,200,000        67,386         

JPM

       07/03/2018      USD      1,018,381      CAD      1,334,000        7,605        (4,006

JPM

       07/03/2018      BRL      47,200,000      USD      12,972,379               (798,466

JPM

       07/03/2018      ARS      10,096,540      USD      348,224               (343

JPM

       07/10/2018      USD      3,822,260      RUB      244,204,200               (62,144

JPM

       07/25/2018      MXN      404,407,751      USD      20,000,482        280,238         

JPM

       07/30/2018      USD      118,492,801      JPY      12,880,000,000        1,918,739         

JPM

       08/15/2018      USD      1,294,980      AUD      1,727,000        16,715         

JPM

       08/15/2018      USD      4,048,293      EUR      3,405,000        58,252         

JPM

       08/15/2018      USD      71,430,728      GBP      52,586,000        1,885,225         

JPM

       08/15/2018      USD      91,871,262      JPY      10,013,700,000        1,140,419         

JPM

       08/15/2018      USD      8,442,385      SEK      73,775,000        176,755         

JPM

       08/15/2018      EUR      2,700,000      USD      3,208,088               (44,178

JPM

       08/15/2018      GBP      2,814,000      USD      3,788,637               (67,095

JPM

       08/15/2018      JPY      5,967,800,000      USD      54,349,807               (277,533

JPM

       08/20/2018      USD      13,873,398      JPY      1,530,000,000        5,520         

JPM

       08/23/2018      USD      2,904,000      MXN      54,116,040        202,676         

JPM

       08/27/2018      USD      19,718,050      JPY      2,140,000,000        311,249         

JPM

       10/02/2018      USD      26,994,992      BRL      91,100,000        3,710,290         

JPM

       01/03/2019      USD      13,188,896      BRL      48,700,000        840,791         

MSCS

       07/03/2018      USD      18,197,161      BRL      63,710,821        1,764,746         

MSCS

       07/03/2018      BRL      63,710,821      USD      16,523,373               (90,958

MSCS

       07/10/2018      RUB      848,121,293      USD      13,296,772        193,767         

MSCS

       07/24/2018      USD      1,550,000      MXN      29,359,325        77,416         

MSCS

       07/24/2018      MXN      84,802,932      USD      4,209,000        44,485         

MSCS

       07/30/2018      USD      44,539,126      JPY      4,840,000,000        733,345         

MSCS

       08/02/2018      BRL      16,510,821      USD      4,369,618               (126,046

MSCS

       08/20/2018      USD      7,162,772      JPY      790,000,000        2,233         

MSCS

       09/19/2018      USD      308,016      THB      9,785,669        11,936         

NGFP

       10/02/2018      USD      74,857,452      BRL      248,916,000        11,235,774         

RBS

       07/23/2018      USD      3,098,000      MXN      57,282,020        224,425         

SCB

       07/02/2018      USD      14,924,613      DKK      95,225,000               (3,265

SCB

       08/08/2018      ZAR      4,184,000      USD      330,328               (26,849

SCB

       08/15/2018      SEK      442,805,000      USD      51,029,128               (1,417,985

SCB

       08/15/2018      EUR      10,406,000      USD      12,264,316               (70,374

SCB

       10/01/2018      DKK      95,225,000      USD      15,033,469        2,551         

UBS

       07/02/2018      DKK      140,390,000      USD      22,509,815               (501,678

UBS

       07/03/2018      USD      43,519,280      GBP      32,913,000        76,692         

UBS

       08/02/2018      GBP      32,913,000      USD      43,580,893               (78,784

UBS

       08/15/2018      SEK      34,325,000      USD      3,933,393               (87,677

UBS

       08/20/2018      USD      11,513,914      JPY      1,250,000,000        183,948         

UBS

       08/27/2018      MXN      232,689,000      USD      12,089,310               (481,827
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total               $   34,436,629      $   (8,480,438
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    23


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (U)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Asset-Backed Securities

  $     $ 460,135,971     $     $ 460,135,971  

Certificates of Deposit

          42,100,000             42,100,000  

Corporate Debt Securities

          1,045,518,778             1,045,518,778  

Foreign Government Obligations

          150,356,153             150,356,153  

Loan Assignment

          4,293,731             4,293,731  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          204,828,527             204,828,527  

Municipal Government Obligations

          10,259,717             10,259,717  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          1,547,979,155             1,547,979,155  

U.S. Government Obligations

          536,564,895             536,564,895  

Commercial Paper

          10,760,400             10,760,400  

Short-Term Foreign Government Obligations

          462,301,560             462,301,560  

Securities Lending Collateral

    39,660,855                   39,660,855  

Repurchase Agreements

          10,234,265             10,234,265  

Exchange-Traded Options Purchased

    9,759                   9,759  

Over-the-Counter Options Purchased

          0             0  

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Purchased

          1,041,448             1,041,448  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 39,670,614     $ 4,486,374,600     $     $ 4,526,045,214  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Centrally Cleared Credit Default Swap Agreements

  $     $ 5,413,215     $     $ 5,413,215  

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          10,638,765             10,638,765  

Futures Contracts (V)

    3,261,743                   3,261,743  

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (V)

          34,436,629             34,436,629  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 3,261,743     $ 50,488,609     $     $ 53,750,352  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $     $ (410,933,491   $     $ (410,933,491

Exchange-Traded Options Written

    (42,750                 (42,750

Over-the-Counter Foreign Exchange Options Written

          (1,531,913           (1,531,913

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swaptions Written

          (5,025           (5,025

Over-the-Counter Interest Rate Swaptions Written

          (1,599,806           (1,599,806

Centrally Cleared Interest Rate Swap Agreements

          (8,274,762           (8,274,762

Over-the-Counter Credit Default Swap Agreements

          (501,869           (501,869

Futures Contracts (V)

    (13,443,042                 (13,443,042

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (V)

          (8,480,438           (8,480,438
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (13,485,792   $ (431,327,304   $     $ (444,813,096
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $629,808,755, representing 23.7% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(C)    When-issued, delayed-delivery and/or forward commitment (including TBAs) securities. Securities to be settled and delivered after June 30, 2018. Securities may display a coupon rate of 0.00%, as the rate is to be determined at time of settlement.
(D)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $56,276,506 or 2.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued):

 

(E)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(F)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(G)    Securities are exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. At June 30, 2018, the total value of Regulation S securities is $83,031,727, representing 3.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(H)    Securities in default; no interest payments received and/or dividends declared during the last 12 months. At June 30, 2018, the total value of such securities is $803,447, representing less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(I)    Non-income producing securities.
(J)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $38,822,191. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(K)    Payment in-kind. Security pays interest or dividends in the form of additional bonds or preferred stock. If the security makes a cash payment in addition to in-kind, the cash rate is disclosed separately.
(L)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(M)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral for centrally cleared swap agreements. The total value of such securities is $24,532,723.
(N)    Securities are subject to sale-buyback transactions.
(O)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral for open over-the-counter options and/or swaptions, swap agreements and forward foreign currency contracts. The total value of such securities is $4,005,592.
(P)    All or a portion of these securities have been segregated by the custodian as collateral to cover margin requirements for open futures contracts. The total value of such securities is $9,593,478.
(Q)    If the Portfolio is a seller of protection and a credit event occurs, as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement, the Portfolio will either (a) pay to the buyer of protection an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation or (b) pay a net settlement amount in the form of cash or securities equal to the notional amount of the swap agreement less the recovery value of the referenced obligation or underlying securities comprising the referenced obligation.
(R)    The maximum potential amount the Portfolio could be required to pay as a seller of credit protection or receive as a buyer of credit protection if a credit event occurs as defined under the terms of that particular swap agreement.
(S)    The quoted market prices and resulting values for credit default swap agreements on asset-backed securities and credit indices serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of an expected liability (or profit) for the credit derivative had the notional amount of the swap agreement been closed/sold as of the period ended. Increasing market values, in absolute terms when compared to the notional amount of the swap agreement, represent a deterioration of the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement.
(T)    Implied credit spreads, represented in absolute terms, utilized in determining the market value of credit default swap agreements on corporate issues or sovereign issues of an emerging country as of period end serve as an indicator of the current status of the payment/performance risk and represent the likelihood of risk of default for the credit derivative. The implied credit spread of a particular referenced entity reflects the cost of buying/selling protection and may include the referenced entity’s credit soundness and a greater likelihood or risk of default or other credit event occurring as defined under the terms of the agreement. A credit spread identified as “Defaulted” indicates a credit event has occurred for the referenced entity or obligation.
(U)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(V)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ARS    Argentine Peso
AUD    Australian Dollar
BRL    Brazilian Real
CAD    Canadian Dollar
DKK    Danish Krone
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
ILS    Israel New Shekel
INR    Indian Rupee
JPY    Japanese Yen
MXN    Mexican Peso
NOK    Norwegian Krone
RUB    Russian Ruble

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    25


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS (continued):

 

SEK    Swedish Krona
SGD    Singapore Dollar
THB    Thai Baht
USD    United States Dollar
ZAR    South African Rand

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

BCI    Barclays Capital, Inc.
BCLY    Barclays Bank PLC
BNP    BNP Paribas
BOA    Bank of America, N.A.
CITI    Citibank N.A.
DUB    Deutsche Bank AG
GSB    Goldman Sachs Bank
GSI    Goldman Sachs International
HSBC    HSBC Bank USA
JPM    JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
MLI    Merrill Lynch International
MSC    Morgan Stanley & Co.
MSCS    Morgan Stanley Capital Services Inc.
NGFP    Nomura Global Financial Products, Inc.
RBS    Royal Bank of Scotland PLC
SCB    Standard Chartered Bank
UBS    UBS AG

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ABS    Asset-Backed Securities
BRL-CDI    Brazil Interbank Deposit Rate
BUXL    Bundesanleihen (German Long-Term Debt)
CDI    CHESS Depositary Interests
CDOR    Canadian Dollar Offered Rate
CMT    Constant Maturity Treasury
COFI    11th District Monthly Weighted Average Cost of Funds Index
EURIBOR    Euro Interbank Offer Rate
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTA    Month Treasury Average
MTN    Medium Term Note
OAT    Obligations Assimilables du Tresor (Treasury Obligations)
OTC    Over-the-Counter
STRIPS    Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities
TBA    To Be Announced

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    26


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $4,542,472,264)
(including securities loaned of $38,822,191)

  $ 4,515,810,949  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $10,234,265)

    10,234,265  

Cash

    60,022  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Centrally cleared swap agreements

    4,154,000  

Futures contracts

    820,000  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $7,065,668)

    7,094,477  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    64,317  

Investments sold

    74,399,341  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments sold

    1,133,024,855  

Interest

    15,208,513  

Tax reclaims

    8,267  

Net income from securities lending

    10,445  

Variation margin receivable on centrally cleared swap agreements

    2,350,848  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    1,217,080  

Prepaid expenses

    8,836  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    34,436,629  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    5,798,902,844  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Cash collateral received at broker:

 

TBA commitments

    737,000  

OTC derivatives (A)

    41,098,000  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    553,052  

Investments purchased

    75,906,714  

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased

    2,556,640,373  

Investment management fees

    1,314,975  

Distribution and service fees

    168,339  

Transfer agent costs

    5,963  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    10,085  

Audit and tax fees

    47,020  

Custody fees

    102,259  

Legal fees

    30,833  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    172,210  

Interest

    948,859  

Other

    36,462  

Collateral for securities on loan

    39,660,855  

Reverse repurchase agreements, at value (cost $410,933,491)

    410,933,491  

Written options and swaptions, at value (premium received $3,886,399)

    3,179,494  

OTC swap agreements, at value

    501,869  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    8,480,438  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    3,140,528,291  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   2,658,374,553  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 2,349,265  

Additional paid-in capital

    2,607,489,690  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    87,520,097  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (27,447,654

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (26,661,315

Written options and swaptions

    706,905  

Swap agreements

    (1,602,142

Futures contracts

    (10,181,299

Forward foreign currency contracts

    25,956,191  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    244,815  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 2,658,374,553  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 1,811,415,328  

Service Class

    846,959,225  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    159,545,594  

Service Class

    75,380,946  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 11.35  

Service Class

    11.24  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income

  $ 39,345,555  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    90,155  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (13,882
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    39,421,828  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    8,396,954  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    1,071,859  

Transfer agent costs

    19,655  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    43,108  

Audit and tax fees

    45,065  

Custody fees

    517,633  

Legal fees

    85,667  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    81,877  

Interest

    71,796  

Other

    51,571  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    10,385,185  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    29,036,643  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    11,604,660  

Written options and swaptions

    2,858,098  

Swap agreements

    8,532,304  

Futures contracts

    (4,335,946

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (49,729,978

Foreign currency transactions

    (1,577,206
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    (32,648,068
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (92,238,876

Written options and swaptions

    (1,796,610

Swap agreements

    (2,866,100

Futures contracts

    (10,582,961

Forward foreign currency contracts

    58,779,694  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    143,372  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (48,561,481
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (81,209,549
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (52,172,906
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    27


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 29,036,643     $ 56,371,076  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (32,648,068     41,119,382  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (48,561,481     34,069,742  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (52,172,906     131,560,200  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (18,808,686

Service Class

          (9,071,026
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (27,879,712
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    89,165,363       66,806,727  

Service Class

    8,751,026       14,621,393  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    97,916,389       81,428,120  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          18,808,686  

Service Class

          9,071,026  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          27,879,712  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (163,066,472     (94,692,233

Service Class

    (46,054,379     (80,991,912
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (209,120,851     (175,684,145
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (111,204,462     (66,376,313
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (163,377,368     37,304,175  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    2,821,751,921       2,784,447,746  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   2,658,374,553     $   2,821,751,921  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 87,520,097     $ 58,483,454  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    7,813,190       5,809,955  

Service Class

    776,410       1,290,843  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    8,589,600       7,100,798  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          1,631,282  

Service Class

          793,616  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,424,898  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (14,341,241     (8,259,717

Service Class

    (4,091,373     (7,158,883
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (18,432,614     (15,418,600
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    (6,528,051     (818,480

Service Class

    (3,314,963     (5,074,424
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (9,843,014     (5,892,904
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    28


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.56     $ 11.13     $ 11.11     $ 11.67     $ 11.37     $ 12.08  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.13       0.24       0.28 (B)       0.25       0.17       0.22  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.34     0.30       0.03 (C)       (0.17     0.35       (0.52
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.21     0.54       0.31       0.08       0.52       (0.30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

                (0.28     (0.33     (0.22     (0.26

Net realized gains

          (0.11     (0.01     (0.31           (0.15
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.11     (0.29     (0.64     (0.22     (0.41
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.35     $ 11.56     $ 11.13     $ 11.11     $ 11.67     $ 11.37  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.82 )%(E)      4.89     2.71     0.69     4.58     (2.46 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,811,416     $   1,920,197     $   1,858,007     $   1,478,877     $   959,735     $   1,364,881  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.69 %(F)      0.68     0.68     0.70     0.71     0.70

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.69 %(F)      0.68     0.67 %(B)      0.70     0.71     0.70

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.23 %(F)      2.09     2.52 %(B)      2.19     1.49 %(G)      1.83

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    24 %(E)      61     47     61     139     162

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Includes interest fee on sale-buyback transactions, representing 0.01% of average net assets.
(H)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.46     $ 11.06     $ 11.04     $ 11.59     $ 11.30     $ 12.01  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.11       0.21       0.26 (B)       0.21       0.14       0.19  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.33     0.30       0.02 (C)       (0.15     0.34       (0.52
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.22     0.51       0.28       0.06       0.48       (0.33
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

                (0.25     (0.30     (0.19     (0.23

Net realized gains

          (0.11     (0.01     (0.31           (0.15
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.11     (0.26     (0.61     (0.19     (0.38
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.24     $ 11.46     $ 11.06     $ 11.04     $ 11.59     $ 11.30  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (2.01 )%(E)      4.64     2.47     0.52     4.25     (2.68 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   846,959     $   901,555     $   926,441     $   930,994     $   960,561     $   969,919  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.94 %(F)      0.93     0.93     0.95     0.97     0.95

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.94 %(F)      0.93     0.92 %(B)      0.95     0.97     0.95

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.98 %(F)      1.84     2.28 %(B)      1.85     1.23 %(G)      1.58

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    24 %(E)      61     47     61     139     162

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Includes interest fee on sale-buyback transactions, representing 0.01% of average net assets.
(H)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Asset-backed securities: The fair value of asset-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider the estimated cash flows of each tranche of the entity, establish a benchmark yield, and develop an estimated tranche specific spread to the benchmark yield based on the unique attributes of the tranche. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Commercial paper: Commercial paper is valued using amortized cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Municipal government obligations: The fair value of municipal government obligations and variable rate notes is estimated based on models that consider, among other factors, information received from market makers and broker-dealers, current trades, bid-want lists, offerings, market movements, the liquidity of the bond, state of issuance, benchmark yield curves, and bond or note insurance. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Short-term notes: The Portfolio normally values short-term government and U.S. government agency securities using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Short-term government and U.S. government agency securities generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Payment in-kind (“PIK”) securities: PIKs give the issuer the option of making interest payments in either cash or additional debt securities at each interest payment date. Those additional debt securities usually have the same terms, including maturity dates and interest rates, and associated risks as the original bonds. The daily market quotations of the original bonds may include the accrued interest (referred to as a “dirty price”) and require a pro-rata adjustment from Net unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments to interest receivable within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

PIKs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward, and to be announced (“TBA”) commitment transactions: The Portfolio may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment basis. When-issued and forward commitment transactions are made conditionally because a security, although authorized, has not yet been issued in the market. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions to obtain an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. The Portfolio engages in when-issued and forward commitment transactions for the purpose of acquiring securities, but may enter into a separate agreement to sell the securities before the settlement date. Since the value of securities purchased may fluctuate prior to settlement, the Portfolio may be required to pay more at settlement than the security is worth. In addition, the Portfolio is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement.

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS (continued)

 

Delayed-delivery transactions involve a commitment by the Portfolio to purchase or sell securities for a predetermined price or yield, with payment and delivery taking place beyond the customary settlement period. When delayed-delivery transactions are outstanding, the Portfolio will segregate with its custodian either cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets at least equal to the value or purchase commitments until payment is made. When purchasing a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio assumes the rights and risks of ownership of the security, including the risk of price and yield fluctuations. These transactions also involve a risk to the Portfolio if the other party to the transaction defaults on its obligation to make payment or delivery, and the Portfolio is delayed or prevented from completing the transaction. The Portfolio may dispose of or renegotiate a delayed-delivery transaction after it is entered into, which may result in a realized gain or loss. When the Portfolio sells a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio does not participate in future gains and losses on the security.

TBA commitments are entered into to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date, typically not to exceed 45 days. TBAs are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines, or the value of the security sold increases, prior to settlement date, in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets. Unsettled TBA commitments are valued at the current value of the underlying securities.

When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitment transactions held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments. Open trades, if any, are reflected as When-issued, delayed-delivery, forward and TBA commitments purchased or sold within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Reverse repurchase agreements: The Portfolio may enter into reverse repurchase agreements in which the Portfolio sells portfolio securities and agrees to repurchase them from the buyer at a specified date and price. The Portfolio may utilize reverse repurchase

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

agreements when it is anticipated that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the proceeds of the transaction is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to be a form of borrowing. Pursuant to the terms of the reverse repurchase agreements, the Portfolio’s custodian must segregate assets with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the repurchase price. In periods of increased demand for the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio. Reverse repurchase agreements involve leverage risk and also the risk that the market value of the securities that the Portfolio are obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio is subject to the risk that the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio. In the event of a default by the counterparty, there may be delays, costs and risks of loss involved in the Portfolio exercising its rights under the agreement, or those rights may be limited by other contractual agreements.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily

Borrowing

 

Number of Days

Outstanding

 

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

$  275,732,286   181   1.82%

Open reverse repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The interest expense is included in interest income on the Statement of Operations.

Sale-buyback: The Portfolio may enter into sale-buyback financing transactions. The Portfolio accounts for sale-buyback financing transactions as borrowing transactions and realize gains and losses on these transactions at the end of the roll period. Sale-buyback financing transactions involve sales by the Portfolio of securities and simultaneously contracts to repurchase the same or substantially similar securities at an agreed upon price and date.

The Portfolio forgoes principal and interest paid during the roll period on the securities sold in a sale-buyback financing transaction. The Portfolio is compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the price for the future purchase (often referred to as the “price drop”), as well as by any interest earned on the proceeds of the securities sold. Sale-buyback financing transactions may be renewed with a new sale and a repurchase price and a cash settlement made at each renewal without physical delivery of the securities subject to the contract. Sale-buyback financing transactions expose the Portfolio to risks such as, the buyer under the agreement may file for bankruptcy, become insolvent, or otherwise default on its obligations to the Portfolio, the market value of the securities the Portfolio is obligated to repurchase under the agreement may decline below the repurchase price. The Portfolio’s obligations under a sale-buyback typically would be offset by liquid assets equal in value to the amount of the Portfolio’s forward commitment to repurchase the subject security. Sale-buyback financing transactions accounted for as borrowing transactions are excluded from the Portfolio’s portfolio turnover rates. The Portfolio recognizes price drop fee income on a straight line basis over the period of the roll. For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio earned price drop fee income of $0. The price drop fee income is included in Interest income within the Statement of Operations.

The outstanding payable for securities to be repurchased, if any, is included in Payable for sale-buyback financing transactions within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The interest expense is included within Interest income on the Statement of Operations. In periods of increased demand of the security, the Portfolio may receive a fee for use of the security by the counterparty, which may result in interest income to the Portfolio, and is reflected in Interest income on the Statement of Operations.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio’s average borrowings are as follows:

 

Average Daily

Borrowing

 

Number of Days

Outstanding

 

Weighted Average

Interest Rate

$   8,276,693   85   0.20%

Open sale-buyback financing transactions at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Corporate Debt Securities

  $   39,660,855     $     $     $     $ 39,660,855  

Reverse Repurchase Agreements

 

U.S. Government Obligations

  $     $   337,247,569     $   78,269,700     $     $   415,517,269  

Cash

    (4,583,778                       (4,583,778 )  

Total Reverse Repurchase Agreements

  $ (4,583,778   $   337,247,569     $   78,269,700     $     $   410,933,491  

Total Borrowings

  $   35,077,077     $   337,247,569     $   78,269,700     $     $   450,594,346  
                                         

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Option contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into option contracts to manage exposure to various market fluctuations. The Portfolio may purchase or write call and put options on securities and derivative instruments in which the Portfolio owns or may invest. Options are valued at the average of the bid and ask price established each day at the close of the board of trade or exchange on which they are traded. Options are marked-to-market daily to reflect the current value of the option. The primary risks associated with options are an imperfect correlation between the change in value of the securities held and the prices of the option contracts, the possibility of an illiquid market, and an inability of the counterparty to meet the contract terms. Options can be traded through an exchange or through privately negotiated arrangements with a dealer in an OTC transaction. Options traded on an exchange are generally cleared through a clearinghouse such as the Options Clearing Corp.

Options on futures: The Portfolio may purchase or write options on futures. Purchasing or writing options on futures gives the Portfolio the right, but not obligation to buy or sell a position on a futures contract at the specified option exercise price at any time during the period of the option.

Options on foreign currency: The Portfolio may purchase or write foreign currency options. Purchasing or writing options on foreign currency gives the Portfolio the right, but not the obligation to buy or sell the currency and will specify the amount of currency and a rate of exchange that may be exercised by a specified date.

Interest rate swaptions: The Portfolio may purchase or write interest rate swaption agreements which are options to enter into a pre-defined swap agreement by some specific date in the future. The writer of the swaption becomes the counterparty to the swap if the buyer exercises. The interest rate swaption agreement will specify whether the buyer of the swaption will be a fixed-rate receiver or a fixed-rate payer upon exercise.

Purchased options: Purchasing call options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. Purchasing put options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. The Portfolio pays premiums, which are included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment and subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option. The risk associated with purchasing put and call options is limited to the premium paid. Premiums paid from options which expire are treated as realized losses. Premiums paid for purchasing options which are exercised or closed are added to the amounts paid or offset against the proceeds on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss.

Written options: Writing call options tends to decrease exposure to the underlying instrument. Writing put options tends to increase exposure to the underlying instrument. When the Portfolio writes a covered call or put option, the premium received is recorded as a liability within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. Premiums received from written options which expire unexercised are treated as realized gains. Premiums received from writing options which are exercised or closed are added to the proceeds or offset against amounts paid on the underlying instrument to determine the realized gain or loss. In writing an option, the Portfolio bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the security or currency underlying the written option. Exercise of an option written by the Portfolio could result in the Portfolio selling or buying a security or currency at a price different from the current market value.

Open option contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The value of purchased option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Investments, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of written option contracts, as applicable, is shown in Written options and swaptions, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Swap agreements: Swap agreements are bilaterally negotiated agreements between the Portfolio and a counterparty to exchange or swap investments, cash flows, assets, foreign currencies, or market-linked returns at specified, future intervals. Swap agreements can be executed in a bilateral privately negotiated arrangement with a dealer in an OTC transaction or executed on a regular market. Certain swaps regardless of the venue of execution are required to be cleared through a clearinghouse (“centrally cleared swap agreements”). Centrally cleared swap agreements listed or traded on a multilateral platform, are valued at the daily settlement price determined by the corresponding exchange. For centrally cleared credit default swap agreements the clearing exchange requires all members to provide applicable levels across complete term levels. Centrally cleared interest rate swap agreements are valued using a pricing model that references the underlying rates including but not limited to the overnight index swap rate and London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) forward rate to calculate the daily settlement price. The Portfolio may enter into credit default, cross-currency, interest rate, total return, and other forms of swap agreements to manage exposure to credit, currency, interest rate, and commodity risks. In connection with these agreements, securities or cash may be identified as collateral or margin in accordance with the terms of

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

the respective swap agreements to provide assets of value and recourse in the event of default or bankruptcy/insolvency. Swap agreements are marked-to-market daily based upon values from third party vendors, which may include a registered exchange, or quotations from market makers to the extent available and the change in value, if any, is recorded as an unrealized gain or loss within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

For OTC swap agreements, payments received or made at the beginning of the measurement period are reflected as such within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and represent payments made or received upon entering into the swap agreements to compensate for differences between the stated terms of the swap agreement and prevailing market conditions (credit spreads, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and other relevant factors). These upfront payments are recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations upon termination or maturity of the swap. A liquidation payment received or made at the termination of the swap is recorded as Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations. Net periodic payments received or paid by the Portfolio are included as part of Net realized gain (loss) on swap agreements within the Statement of Operations.

Credit default swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to credit risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio enters into credit default swap agreements to manage its exposure to the market or certain sectors of the market to reduce its risk exposure to defaults of corporate and sovereign issuers, or to create exposure to corporate or sovereign issuers to which it is not otherwise exposed. Credit default swap agreements involve the exchange of a fixed rate premium for protection against the loss in value of an underlying security in the event of a defined credit event, such as payment default or bankruptcy (buy protection).

Under a credit default swap agreement, one party acts as a guarantor by receiving the fixed periodic payment in exchange for the commitment to purchase the underlying security at par if the defined credit event occurs (sell protection). The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty risk, either as the protection seller or as the protection buyer, is the notional amount of the contract. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

The Portfolio sells credit default swap agreements, which exposes it to risk of loss from credit risk related events specified in the contracts. Although contract-specific, credit events are generally defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, restructuring, obligation acceleration, obligation default, or repudiation/moratorium. If a defined credit event had occurred during the period, the swap agreements’ credit-risk-related contingent features would have been triggered, and the Portfolio would have been required to pay the notional amounts for the credit default swap agreements with a sell protection less the value of the contracts’ related reference obligations.

Interest rate swap agreements: The Portfolio is subject to interest rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Because the Portfolio holds fixed rate bonds, the value of these bonds may decrease if interest rates rise. To help hedge against this risk, the Portfolio enters into interest rate swap agreements. Under an interest rate swap agreement, two parties will exchange cash flows based on a notional principal amount. A Portfolio with interest rate agreements can elect to pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate, or receive a fixed rate and pay a floating rate, on a notional principal amount. The risks of interest rate swap agreements include changes in market conditions which will affect the value of the contract or the cash flows, and the possible inability of the counterparty to fulfill its obligations under the agreement. The Portfolio’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk is the discounted net value of the cash flows to be received from/paid to the counterparties over the contracts’ remaining lives, to the extent that amount is positive. This risk is mitigated by having a master netting arrangement between the Portfolio and the counterparty, and by the posting of collateral.

Open centrally cleared swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Centrally cleared swap agreements are marked-to-market daily and an appropriate payable or receivable for the variation margin is recorded, if applicable, and is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on centrally cleared swap agreements within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Open OTC swap agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. The value, as applicable, is shown in OTC swap agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A) (B)

  $ 1,051,207     $     $     $     $     $ 1,051,207  

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (B) (C)

    10,638,765                   5,413,215             16,051,980  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (B) (D)

    3,261,743                               3,261,743  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          34,436,629                         34,436,629  

Total

  $   14,951,715     $   34,436,629     $   —     $   5,413,215     $   —     $   54,801,559  
                                                 

Liability Derivatives

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Written options and swaptions, at value (B)

  $ (1,642,556   $ (1,531,913   $     $ (5,025   $     $ (3,179,494

Centrally cleared swap agreements, at value (B) (C)

    (8,274,762                             (8,274,762

OTC swap agreements, at value

                      (501,869           (501,869

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (B) (D)

    (13,443,042                             (13,443,042

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

          (8,480,438                       (8,480,438

Total

  $   (23,367,531   $   (10,012,351   $   —     $   (506,895   $   —     $   (33,879,605
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Investments, at value on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(C)   Included within Value of centrally cleared swap agreements as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(D)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    40


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (A)

  $ 88,976     $ (5,560   $     $     $ (5,387   $ 78,029  

Written options and swaptions

    814,050       2,044,048                         2,858,098  

Swap agreements

    7,917,492                   614,812             8,532,304  

Futures contracts

    (4,335,946                             (4,335,946

Forward foreign currency contracts (B)

          (49,729,978                       (49,729,978

Total

  $ 4,484,572     $   (47,691,490   $   —     $ 614,812     $ (5,387   $   (42,597,493
                                                 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Purchased options and swaptions (C)

  $ 248,855     $     $     $     $     $ 248,855  

Written options and swaptions

    (1,092,510     (726,356           22,255             (1,796,610

Swap agreements

    (1,724,231                 (1,141,869           (2,866,100

Futures contracts

    (10,582,961                             (10,582,961

Forward foreign currency contracts (D)

          58,779,694                         58,779,694  

Total

  $   (13,150,846   $   58,053,338     $     $   (1,119,614   $     $ 43,782,878  
                                                 

 

(A)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(B)   Included within Net realized gain (loss) on transactions from Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.
(C)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Investments on the Statement of Operations.
(D)   Included within Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on Forward foreign currency contracts on the Statement of Operations.

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Purchased Options
and Swaptions
at value
  Written Options and
Swaptions at value
  Swap
Agreements
at Notional
Amount
  Futures Contracts at
Notional Amount
  Forward Foreign
Currency Contracts at
Contract Amount
Calls   Puts   Calls   Puts        Long   Short   Purchased   Sold
$  5,792   $  1,303,949   $  (893,836)   $  (1,719,312)   $  1,235,791,959   1,480,585,714   (1,455,800,000)   $  687,512,583   $  1,492,131,078

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    41


Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets  and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
                Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
       
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Net Amount            Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
    Net Amount  
    Assets           Liabilities  

Bank of America, N.A.

  $ 2,505,907     $ (1,137,670   $   (1,350,000   $ 18,237       $ 1,137,670     $ (1,137,670   $     $  

Barclays Bank PLC

    227,834       (104,484           123,350         104,484       (104,484            

Barclays Capital, Inc.

                              478,937                   478,937  

BNP Paribas

    1,125,312       (155,819     (969,493             155,819       (155,819            

Citibank N.A.

    1,608,019       (1,608,019                   1,675,866       (1,608,019     (67,847      

Deutsche Bank AG

    715,186       (305,224     (409,962             305,224       (305,224            

Goldman Sachs Bank

    1,599,823       (1,307,222     (292,601             1,307,222       (1,307,222            

Goldman Sachs International

                              8,975                   8,975  

HSBC Bank USA

    1,631,889       (623,575     (1,008,314             623,575       (623,575            

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

    10,740,979       (1,727,391     (9,013,588             1,727,391       (1,727,391            

Merrill Lynch International

    539,715       (539,715                   795,694       (539,715           255,979  

Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc.

    232,095       (232,095                   380,687       (232,095           148,592  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

    2,827,928       (218,898     (112,000     2,497,030         218,898       (218,898            

Nomura Global Financial Products, Inc.

    11,235,774             (10,592,000     643,774                            

Royal Bank of Scotland PLC

    224,425       (224,425                   482,814       (224,425           258,389  

Standard Chartered Bank

    2,551       (2,551                   1,518,473       (2,551     (1,515,922      

UBS AG

    260,640       (260,640                   1,197,322       (260,640     (936,682      

Other Derivatives (C)

    19,323,482                   19,323,482         21,760,554                   21,760,554  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   54,801,559     $   (8,447,728   $   (23,747,958   $   22,605,873       $   33,879,605     $   (8,447,728   $   (2,520,451   $   22,911,426  

 

     

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.
(C)   Other Derivatives, which includes future contracts, exchange-traded options and exchange-traded swap agreements, are not subject to a master netting arrangement or another similar arrangement. The amount presented is intended to permit reconciliation to the amount presented within the Schedule of Investments.

 

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. RISK FACTOR

 

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Fixed income risk: The value of fixed income securities may go up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic or political conditions, inflation, changes in interest rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In addition, the value of a fixed income security may decline if the issuer or other obligor of the security fails to pay principal and/or interest, otherwise defaults or has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines. If the value of fixed-income securities owned by the Portfolio fall, the value of your investment will go down. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. Interest rates have been at historically low levels, so the Portfolio faces a heightened risk that interest rates may rise. A general rise in interest rates may cause investors to move out of fixed-income securities on a large scale, which could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed-income securities. A rise in rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.68

Over $250 million up to $500 million

     0.67  

Over $500 million up to $750 million

     0.66  

Over $750 million up to $1 billion

     0.63  

Over $1 billion up to $3 billion

     0.60  

Over $3 billion

     0.57  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.80    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.05      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)

$   51,274,492

  $  —   $  —

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  643,856,744   $  86,112,139     $  443,878,655   $  143,022,983

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  4,552,706,529   $  91,410,814   $  (103,192,474)   $  (11,781,660)

11. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

12. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Pacific Investment Management Company LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

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Transamerica PIMCO Total Return VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1- and 3-year periods and in line with the median for the past 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 10-year periods and below its benchmark for the past 5-year period.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    48


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   996.10     $   3.22     $   1,021.60     $   3.26       0.65

Service Class

    1,000.00       996.10       4.45       1,020.30       4.51       0.90  

 

(A)

5% return per year before expenses.

 

(B) 

Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Portfolio Characteristics    Years  

Average Maturity §

     7.99  

Duration †

     6.32  
Credit Quality ‡    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Government and Agency Securities

     55.4

AAA

     3.3  

AA

     7.3  

A

     7.1  

BBB

     21.7  

BB

     2.1  

B

     1.3  

Not Rated

     1.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     0.7  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

 

§

Average Maturity is computed by weighting the maturity of each security in the Portfolio by the market value of the security, then averaging these weighted figures.

 

Duration is a time measure of a bond’s interest rate sensitivity, based on the weighted average of the time periods over which a bond’s cash flows accrue to the bondholder.

 

Credit quality represents a percentage of net assets at the end of the reporting period. Ratings BBB or higher are considered investment grade. Not rated securities do not necessarily indicate low credit quality, and may or may not be equivalent of investment grade. The table reflects Standard and Poor’s (“S&P”) ratings; percentages may include investments not rated by S&P but rated by Moody’s, or if unrated by Moody’s, by Fitch ratings, and then included in the closest equivalent S&P rating. Credit ratings are subject to change. The Portfolio itself has not been rated by an independent agency.

 

^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
PREFERRED STOCKS - 0.3%  
Banks - 0.3%  

Banco Santander SA,
3-Month LIBOR + 0.52%,
4.00% (A) (B)

    3,500        $  84,385  

US Bancorp,
Series A, 3-Month LIBOR + 1.02%, 3.50% (A)

    500        460,005  
    

 

 

 

Total Preferred Stocks
(Cost $500,925)

 

     544,390  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES - 22.1%  
Banks - 11.0%  

BAC Capital Trust XIV
3-Month LIBOR + 0.40%, 4.00% (A), 07/16/2018 (C)

    $  779,000        686,494  

Bank of America Corp.

    

CPI-YoY + 1.10%, 3.46% (A),
11/19/2024, MTN

    5,000,000        4,725,000  

4.18%, 11/25/2027, MTN

    152,000        148,032  

Fixed until 04/24/2037,
4.24% (A), 04/24/2038

    891,000        865,495  

Barclays Bank PLC
1-Month LIBOR + 1.00%, 3.36% (A), 05/22/2023, MTN

    2,600,000        2,596,100  

Barclays PLC
3-Month LIBOR + 2.11%, 4.46% (A), 08/10/2021

    231,000        239,745  

BBVA Bancomer SA
Fixed until 01/18/2028,
5.13% (A), 01/18/2033 (D)

    334,000        296,007  

Citigroup, Inc.
1.38*CPI-YoY, 3.26% (A), 03/27/2025

    1,000,000        951,000  

3-Month LIBOR + 1.19%, 3.55% (A), 08/02/2021

    105,000        106,832  

Fixed until 07/24/2027,
3.67% (A), 07/24/2028

    674,000        641,250  

CPI-YoY + 2.50%, 4.96% (A), 03/30/2020, MTN

    2,000,000        2,009,200  

Corestates Capital II
3-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 3.00% (A), 01/15/2027 (D)

    244,000        229,360  

Credit Agricole SA
Fixed until 01/10/2028,
4.00% (A), 01/10/2033 (B) (D)

    751,000        685,520  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.50%,
3.82% (A), 01/05/2022

    1,600,000        1,646,916  

Fixed until 05/22/2027,
6.00% (A), 05/22/2027 (C)

    336,000        311,640  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.
3-Month LIBOR + 1.23%, 3.59% (A), 10/24/2023

    275,000        279,957  

Regions Financial Corp.
2.75%, 08/14/2022

    310,000        298,946  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    

Fixed until 03/08/2022,
2.00% (A), 03/08/2023, MTN (E)

    EUR  400,000          480,754  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Banks (continued)  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC (continued)

 

  

Fixed until 05/15/2022,
3.50% (A), 05/15/2023

    $  200,000        $   193,742  

Fixed until 06/25/2023,
4.52% (A), 06/25/2024

    933,000        933,669  

Fixed until 08/15/2021,
8.63% (A), 08/15/2021 (C)

    234,000        248,684  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.
4.00%, 05/01/2025

    374,000        375,782  

SunTrust Capital III
3-Month LIBOR + 0.65%, 2.99% (A), 03/15/2028

    239,000        221,075  

UniCredit SpA
Fixed until 06/19/2027,
5.86% (A), 06/19/2032 (B) (D)

    241,000        213,977  

Wachovia Capital Trust II
3-Month LIBOR + 0.50%, 2.85% (A), 01/15/2027

    354,000        332,760  
    

 

 

 
       19,717,937  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.5%  

Masco Corp.
3.50%, 11/15/2027

    827,000        761,270  

Owens Corning
4.40%, 01/30/2048

    121,000        101,027  
    

 

 

 
       862,297  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.8%  

Credit Suisse Group Funding Guernsey, Ltd.
3-Month LIBOR + 2.29%, 4.65% (A), 04/16/2021

    1,257,000        1,313,651  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    

3-Month LIBOR + 1.17%, 3.51% (A), 11/15/2021

    424,000        429,203  

Fixed until 11/10/2022,
5.00% (A), 11/10/2022 (C)

    759,000        712,018  

Morgan Stanley
Fixed until 04/24/2023,
3.74% (A), 04/24/2024

    721,000        716,674  
    

 

 

 
       3,171,546  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 0.2%  

RPM International, Inc.
4.25%, 01/15/2048

    152,000        137,565  

Syngenta Finance NV
5.18%, 04/24/2028 (D)

    200,000        193,165  
    

 

 

 
       330,730  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.6%  

CRH America Finance, Inc.
3.95%, 04/04/2028 (D)

    260,000        251,009  

Vulcan Materials Co.
3-Month LIBOR + 0.60%, 2.94% (A), 06/15/2020

    827,000        825,897  
    

 

 

 
       1,076,906  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 1.2%  

Navient Corp.

    

CPI-YoY + 2.15%,
4.51% (A), 12/15/2020, MTN

    189,000        185,220  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Consumer Finance (continued)  

Navient Corp. (continued)

    

CPI-YoY + 2.25%,
5.05% (A), 05/03/2019, MTN

    $   2,000,000        $   2,017,500  
    

 

 

 
       2,202,720  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 0.2%  

FirstEnergy Corp.
3.90%, 07/15/2027

    268,000        259,989  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 0.5%  

CVS Health Corp.
4.78%, 03/25/2038

    932,000        916,689  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.7%  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 2.13%, 4.47% (A), 02/12/2067 (B) (D)

    1,051,000        993,195  

XLIT, Ltd.
5.50%, 03/31/2045

    149,000        154,685  
    

 

 

 
       1,147,880  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 0.1%  

CNH Industrial NV
3.85%, 11/15/2027, MTN

    197,000        183,716  
    

 

 

 
Media - 0.1%  

Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital
5.38%, 05/01/2047

    194,000        176,171  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 1.2%  

Anglo American Capital PLC
4.00%, 09/11/2027 (D)

    229,000        213,204  

Glencore Funding LLC
4.00%, 04/16/2025 (D)

    248,000        238,638  

Kinross Gold Corp.
4.50%, 07/15/2027 (D)

    148,000        135,790  

Newcrest Finance Pty, Ltd.
4.20%, 10/01/2022 (D)

    1,050,000        1,051,167  

5.75%, 11/15/2041 (D)

    515,000        529,646  
    

 

 

 
       2,168,445  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.6%  

National Grid PLC
1.25%, 10/06/2021, MTN (E)

    GBP  520,000        850,049  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.
3-Month LIBOR + 2.11%,
4.46% (A), 05/15/2067

    $  242,000        238,684  
    

 

 

 
       1,088,733  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.6%  

Andeavor
3.80%, 04/01/2028

    755,000        713,074  

Andeavor Logistics, LP
Fixed until 02/15/2023,
6.88% (A), 02/15/2023 (C)

    381,000        377,190  

Andeavor Logistics, LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp.
4.25%, 12/01/2027

      380,000          364,001  

Enbridge, Inc.
Fixed until 07/15/2027,
5.50% (A), 07/15/2077

      874,000          796,433  
     Principal      Value  
CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Energy Transfer Partners, LP
5.80%, 06/15/2038

    $   318,000        $   314,737  

Fixed until 02/15/2023,
6.25% (A), 02/15/2023 (C)

    755,000        699,319  

EnLink Midstream Partners, LP 4.85%, 07/15/2026

    406,000        384,709  

Fixed until 12/15/2022,
6.00% (A), 12/15/2022 (C)

    142,000        121,366  

Enterprise Products Operating LLC
Fixed until 08/16/2027,
5.25% (A), 08/16/2077

    278,000        258,540  

Marathon Oil Corp.
4.40%, 07/15/2027

    345,000        346,220  

Noble Energy, Inc.
3.85%, 01/15/2028

    260,000        248,466  

ONEOK, Inc.
4.00%, 07/13/2027

    99,000        95,793  
    

 

 

 
       4,719,848  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.3%  

Bayer US Finance II LLC
4.25%, 12/15/2025 (D)

    522,000        524,793  
    

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure - 0.5%  

Heathrow Funding, Ltd.
1.37%, 03/28/2032 (E)

    GBP  582,650        927,726  
    

 

 

 

Total Corporate Debt Securities
(Cost $40,236,020)

 

     39,476,126  
    

 

 

 
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 19.4%  
Australia - 2.3%  

Australia Government Bond
1.00%, 11/21/2018 (E)

    AUD  5,000,000        4,021,173  
    

 

 

 
Brazil - 0.4%  

Brazil Notas do Tesouro Nacional
Series F,
10.00%, 01/01/2019

    BRL  3,000,000        748,432  
    

 

 

 
France - 2.6%  

France Government Bond OAT
2.10%, 07/25/2023 (E)

    EUR  1,915,577        2,658,687  

France Republic Government Bond OAT
0.10%, 07/25/2021 (E)

    1,553,895        1,915,899  
    

 

 

 
       4,574,586  
    

 

 

 
Italy - 5.0%  

Italy Buoni Poliennali del Tesoro
0.10%, 05/15/2022 (E)

    5,238,062        6,046,565  

1.25%, 09/15/2032 (E)

    1,027,810        1,145,352  

2.10%, 09/15/2021 (E)

    1,337,700        1,660,330  
    

 

 

 
       8,852,247  
    

 

 

 
Mexico - 1.0%  

Mexican Udibonos
Series S,
4.50%, 12/04/2025

    MXN  19,168,912          1,013,324  

Mexico Udibonos
Series S,
2.50%, 12/10/2020

    16,895,001          825,182  
    

 

 

 
       1,838,506  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Principal      Value  
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS (continued)  
New Zealand - 0.8%  

New Zealand Government Inflation Linked Bond
2.00%, 09/20/2025 (E)

    NZD  2,000,000        $   1,513,508  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 3.4%  

Spain Government Inflation-Linked Bond
0.55%, 11/30/2019 (E)

    EUR  2,575,800        3,100,907  

1.00%, 11/30/2030 (E)

    2,260,478        2,927,755  
    

 

 

 
       6,028,662  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 3.9%  

U.K. Gilt Inflation-Linked
0.13%, 11/22/2019 - 03/22/2044 (E)

    GBP  4,754,610        7,055,580  
    

 

 

 

Total Foreign Government Obligations
(Cost $34,560,362)

 

     34,632,694  
    

 

 

 
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES - 1.0%  

BX Trust
Series 2018-MCSF, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.58%, 2.65% (A), 04/15/2035 (D)

    $  900,000        891,745  

DBCG Mortgage Trust
Series 2017-BBG, Class A,
1-Month LIBOR + 0.70%, 2.77% (A), 06/15/2034 (D)

    900,000        899,999  
    

 

 

 

Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
(Cost $1,793,878)

 

     1,791,744  
    

 

 

 
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 1.2%  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Structured Agency Credit Risk Debt Notes

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.65%, 3.74% (A), 04/25/2024

    1,202,254        1,218,894  

1-Month LIBOR + 2.20%, 4.29% (A), 02/25/2024 - 03/25/2025

    734,645        751,232  

Federal National Mortgage Association

    

1-Month LIBOR + 1.60%, 3.69% (A), 01/25/2024

      78,875          79,402  

1-Month LIBOR + 2.00%, 4.09% (A), 10/25/2023

    33,777        33,910  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations
(Cost $2,043,836)

 

     2,083,438  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS - 54.2%  
U.S. Treasury - 0.1%  

U.S. Treasury Note
2.88%, 05/15/2028

    $   254,000        $   254,506  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities - 54.1%  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Bond 0.50%, 01/15/2028

      5,859,204          5,732,258  

0.63%, 02/15/2043

    2,723,650        2,577,482  

0.75%, 02/15/2042 - 02/15/2045

    5,788,643        5,627,052  

1.00%, 02/15/2046

    2,589,310        2,666,749  

1.38%, 02/15/2044

    2,696,548        3,010,067  

2.00%, 01/15/2026

    2,524,020        2,765,764  

2.38%, 01/15/2025 - 01/15/2027

    7,059,907        7,902,685  

2.50%, 01/15/2029

    583,325        685,432  

3.63%, 04/15/2028

    1,084,062        1,376,164  

3.88%, 04/15/2029

    2,628,314        3,465,102  

U.S. Treasury Inflation-Indexed Note 0.13%, 04/15/2019 - 07/15/2024

    48,107,699        47,233,966  

0.25%, 01/15/2025

    2,485,196        2,417,114  

0.38%, 07/15/2025

    4,235,522        4,160,196  

0.63%, 01/15/2024 - 01/15/2026

    7,137,604        7,107,604  
    

 

 

 
       96,727,635  
    

 

 

 

Total U.S. Government Obligations
(Cost $97,660,719)

 

     96,982,141  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.1%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (F)

    1,956,622        1,956,622  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $1,956,622)

 

     1,956,622  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $178,752,362)

 

     177,467,155  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)  - 0.7%

 

     1,258,378  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  178,725,533  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS:  
Counterparty      Settlement
Date
     Currency
Purchased
     Currency
Sold
     Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
Depreciation
 

JPMS

       07/12/2018      USD      3,979,630      AUD      5,107,350      $ 199,886      $   —  

JPMS

       07/12/2018      USD      851,689      BRL      2,900,000        104,534         

JPMS

       07/12/2018      USD      19,394,301      EUR      15,550,000        1,219,227         

JPMS

       07/12/2018      USD      6,878,850      GBP      4,815,000        520,799         

JPMS

       07/12/2018      USD      1,892,424      MXN      34,500,000        158,638         

JPMS

       07/12/2018      USD      1,435,047      NZD      1,954,900        111,000         
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 
Total               $   2,314,084      $   —  
                   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (G)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Preferred Stocks

  $ 544,390     $     $     $ 544,390  

Corporate Debt Securities

          39,476,126             39,476,126  

Foreign Government Obligations

          34,632,694             34,632,694  

Mortgage-Backed Securities

          1,791,744             1,791,744  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

          2,083,438             2,083,438  

U.S. Government Obligations

          96,982,141             96,982,141  

Securities Lending Collateral

    1,956,622                   1,956,622  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 2,501,012     $ 174,966,143     $     $ 177,467,155  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts (H)

  $     $ 2,314,084     $     $ 2,314,084  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $     $ 2,314,084     $     $ 2,314,084  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Floating or variable rate securities. The rates disclosed are as of June 30, 2018. For securities based on a published reference rate and spread, the reference rate and spread are indicated within the description. Variable rate securities with a floor or ceiling feature are disclosed at the inherent rate, where applicable. Certain variable rate securities are not based on a published reference rate and spread, but are determined by the issuer or agent and are based on current market conditions; these securities do not indicate a reference rate and spread in the description.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $1,917,667. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Perpetual maturity. The date displayed is the next call date.
(D)    Securities are registered pursuant to Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. Unless otherwise indicated, the securities are deemed to be liquid for purposes of compliance limitations on holdings of illiquid securities and may be resold as transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At June 30, 2018, the total value of 144A securities is $7,347,215, representing 4.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Securities are exempt from registration under Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933. At June 30, 2018, the total value of Regulation S securities is $34,304,285, representing 19.2% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(F)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(G)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(H)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

CURRENCY ABBREVIATIONS:

 

AUD    Australian Dollar
BRL    Brazilian Real
EUR    Euro
GBP    Pound Sterling
MXN    Mexican Peso
NZD    New Zealand Dollar
USD    United States Dollar

COUNTERPARTY ABBREVIATION:

 

JPMS    JPMorgan Securities LLC

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

CPI-YoY    US Consumer Price Index Urban Consumers Year Over Year
LIBOR    London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN    Medium Term Note

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $178,752,362)
(including securities loaned of $1,917,667)

  $   177,467,155  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

OTC derivatives (A)

    1,500,000  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $5,149)

    5,139  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    9,696  

Interest

    702,591  

Dividends

    4,423  

Tax reclaims

    388  

Net income from securities lending

    449  

Prepaid expenses

    584  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    2,314,084  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    182,004,509  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    1,065,321  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    87,748  

Investment management fees

    82,318  

Distribution and service fees

    35,480  

Transfer agent costs

    456  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    672  

Audit and tax fees

    17,445  

Custody fees

    4,304  

Legal fees

    2,553  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    21,518  

Other

    4,539  

Collateral for securities on loan

    1,956,622  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    3,278,976  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 178,725,533  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 174,897  

Additional paid-in capital

    190,754,753  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    4,863,604  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    (18,093,974

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (1,285,207

Forward foreign currency contracts

    2,314,084  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (2,624
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 178,725,533  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10,237  

Service Class

    178,715,296  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    1,014  

Service Class

    17,488,709  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 10.10  

Service Class

    10.22  

 

(A)    OTC derivatives may include swaps, options and/or swaptions and forward foreign currency contracts.

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 16,395  

Interest income

    2,732,948  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    4,170  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    2,753,513  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    520,729  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    224,440  

Transfer agent costs

    1,328  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,849  

Audit and tax fees

    17,121  

Custody fees

    22,661  

Legal fees

    5,829  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    10,904  

Other

    4,796  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    810,657  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    1,942,856  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    674,608  

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (1,734,030

Foreign currency transactions

    (14,706
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,074,128
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

      (4,557,625

Forward foreign currency contracts

    2,844,848  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (3,623
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (1,716,400
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (2,790,528
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (847,672
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:    

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 1,942,856     $ 2,760,805  

Net realized gain (loss)

    (1,074,128     (1,622,827

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (1,716,400     4,952,545  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (847,672     6,090,523  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (46

Service Class

          (442,322
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (442,368
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Service Class

    4,625,689       24,735,263  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    4,625,689       24,735,263  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          46  

Service Class

          442,322  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          442,368  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Service Class

    (14,387,047     (31,506,532
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (14,387,047     (31,506,532
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (9,761,358     (6,328,901
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (10,609,030     (680,746
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    189,334,563       190,015,309  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   178,725,533     $   189,334,563  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 4,863,604     $ 2,920,748  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Service Class

    454,380       2,454,087  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    454,380       2,454,087  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          5  

Service Class

          43,536  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          43,541  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Service Class

    (1,412,718     (3,102,576
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,412,718     (3,102,576
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

          5  

Service Class

    (958,338     (604,953
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (958,338     (604,948
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.13     $ 9.84     $ 9.53     $ 9.94     $ 9.65     $ 11.47  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.12       0.16       0.13 (B)       0.05       0.30       0.07  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.15     0.18       0.26       (0.31     0.05       (1.45
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.03     0.34       0.39       (0.26     0.35       (1.38
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.05     (0.08     (0.15     (0.06     (0.05

Net realized gains

                                  (0.39
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.05       (0.08       (0.15       (0.06     (0.44
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $   10.10     $   10.13     $   9.84     $   9.53     $   9.94     $   9.65  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (0.30 )%(D)      3.42     4.12     (2.68 )%      3.58       (12.01 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $ 10     $ 10     $ 10     $ 9     $ 10     $ 1,917  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.65 %(E)      0.65     0.65     0.64     0.89 %(F)      0.91 %(F) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.65 %(E)      0.65     0.64 %(B)      0.64     0.89 %(F)      0.91 %(F) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.43 %(E)      1.64     1.33 %(B)      0.47     2.99 %(F)      0.68 %(F) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    14 %(D)      38     94     36     152 %(G)      52 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Includes interest fee on sale-buyback transactions, representing 0.04%, 0.05%, and 0.04% of average net assets for the years ended December 31, 2014, December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012, respectively.
(G)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 10.26     $ 9.97     $ 9.66     $ 10.07     $ 9.77     $ 11.29  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.11       0.14       0.11 (B)       0.02       0.14       (0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.15     0.17       0.26       (0.31     0.19       (1.08
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.04     0.31       0.37       (0.29     0.33       (1.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.02     (0.06     (0.12     (0.03     (0.04

Net realized gains

                                  (0.39
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.02     (0.06     (0.12     (0.03     (0.43
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 10.22     $ 10.26     $ 9.97     $ 9.66     $ 10.07     $ 9.77  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (0.39 )%(D)      3.13     3.80     (2.87 )%      3.38     (9.71 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   178,716     $   189,325     $   190,005     $   192,312     $   196,989     $   161,422  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.90 %(E)      0.90     0.90     0.89     1.14 %(F)      1.16 %(F) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.90 %(E)      0.90     0.89 %(B)      0.89     1.14 %(F)      1.16 %(F) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.16 %(E)      1.41     1.08 %(B)      0.24     1.41 %(F)      (0.09 )%(F) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    14 %(D)      38     94     36     152 %(G)      52 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Includes interest fee on sale-buyback transactions, representing 0.04%, 0.05%, and 0.04% of average net assets for the years ended December 31, 2014, December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2012, respectively.
(G)    Excludes sale-buyback transactions.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the year, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

 

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Corporate debt securities: The fair value of corporate debt securities is estimated using various techniques, which consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, fundamental data relating to the issuer, and credit default swap spreads adjusted for any basis difference between cash and derivative instruments. While most corporate debt securities are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, in instances where lower relative weight is placed on transaction prices, quotations, or similar observable inputs, they are categorized in Level 3.

Foreign government obligations: Foreign government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. Foreign government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Mortgage-backed securities: The fair value of mortgage-backed securities is estimated based on models that consider issuer type, coupon, cash flows, mortgage prepayment projection tables and adjustable rate mortgage evaluations that incorporate index data, periodic life caps and the next coupon reset date. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values would generally be categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they are categorized in Level 3.

U.S. government obligations: U.S. government obligations are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued by principally using dealer quotations. U.S. government obligations generally are categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

U.S. government agency obligations: U.S. government agency obligations are comprised of two main categories consisting of agency issued debt and mortgage pass-throughs. Generally, agency issued debt securities are valued in a manner similar to U.S. government obligations. Mortgage pass-throughs include to be announced (“TBA”) securities and mortgage pass-through certificates. Generally, TBA securities and mortgage pass-throughs are valued using dealer quotations. Depending on market activity levels and whether quotations or other observable data are used, these securities are typically categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy; otherwise they would be categorized in Level 3.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Treasury inflation-protected securities (“TIPS”): The Portfolio may invest in TIPS, which are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation/deflation. If the index measuring inflation/deflation rises or falls, the principal value of TIPS will be adjusted upward or downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a larger or smaller principal amount) will be increased or reduced, respectively. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-indexed bonds and notes. For bonds and notes that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

TIPS held at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments. The adjustments, if any, to principal due to inflation/deflation are reflected as increases/decreases to Interest income within the Statement of Operations, with a corresponding adjustment to Investments, at cost within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Preferred Stocks

  $ 26,102     $     $     $     $ 26,102  

Corporate Debt Securities

    1,930,520                         1,930,520  

Total Securities Lending Transactions

  $ 1,956,622     $     $     $     $ 1,956,622  

Total Borrowings

  $   1,956,622     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   1,956,622  
                                         

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Forward foreign currency contracts: The Portfolio is subject to foreign exchange rate risk exposure in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge against exchange rate risk arising from investments in securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are marked-to-market daily, with the change in value recorded as an unrealized gain or loss and is shown in Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. When the contracts are settled, a realized gain or loss is incurred and is shown in Net realized gain (loss) on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Operations. Risks may arise from changes in market value of the underlying currencies and from the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts. Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the OTC inter-bank currency dealer market.

Open forward foreign currency contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, is shown in Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

  $   —     $   2,314,084     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   2,314,084  

Total

  $     $ 2,314,084     $     $     $     $ 2,314,084  
                                                 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Forward foreign currency contracts

  $   —     $   (1,734,030   $   —     $   —     $   —     $   (1,734,030

Total

  $     $ (1,734,030   $     $     $     $ (1,734,030
                                                 

 

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Forward foreign currency contracts

  $   —     $   2,844,848     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   2,844,848  

Total

  $     $ 2,844,848     $     $     $     $ 2,844,848  
                                                 

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts at Contract Amount

Purchased   Sold
$  866,016   $  36,364,253

The Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreements”) or similar master agreements (collectively, “Master Agreements”) with its contract counterparties for certain OTC derivatives in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to counterparties.

ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, the Portfolio typically may offset with the counterparty certain OTC derivative financial instruments payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default, termination and/or potential deterioration in the credit quality of the counterparty.

Various Master Agreements govern the terms of certain transactions with counterparties and typically attempt to reduce the counterparty risk associated with such transactions by specifying credit protection mechanisms and providing standardization that improves legal certainty. Cross-termination provisions under Master Agreements typically provide that a default in connection with one transaction between the Portfolio and a counterparty gives the non-defaulting party the right to terminate any other transactions in place with the defaulting party to create one single net payment due to/due from the defaulting party and may be a feature in certain Master Agreements. In the event the Portfolio exercises its right to terminate a Master Agreement after a counterparty experiences a termination event as defined in the Master Agreement, the return of collateral with market value in excess of the Portfolio’s net liability may be delayed or denied.

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the Portfolio’s OTC derivative assets and liabilities by counterparty net of amounts available for offset under a master netting agreement and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolio as of June 30, 2018. For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolio does not offset assets and liabilities that are subject to a master netting agreement or similar arrangement on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. See the Repurchase agreement section within the notes for offsetting and collateral information pertaining to repurchase agreements that are subject to master netting agreements.

 

    Gross Amounts of
Assets
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
   

Net Amount

           Gross Amounts of
Liabilities
Presented within
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities (A)
    Gross Amounts Not Offset
within Statement of
Assets and Liabilities
   

Net Amount

 
Counterparty   Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Received (B)
    Financial
Instruments
    Collateral
Pledged (B)
 
    Assets           Liabilities  

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

  $ 2,314,084     $     $     $ 2,314,084       $     $     $     $  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

  $   2,314,084     $   —     $   —     $   2,314,084       $   —     $   —     $   —     $   —  

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)   Absent an event of default or early termination, OTC derivative assets and liabilities are presented gross and not offset within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
(B)   In some instances, the actual collateral received and/or pledged may be more than the amount shown due to overcollateralization.

7. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Fixed income risk: The value of fixed income securities may go up or down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, due to general market conditions, such as real or perceived adverse economic or political conditions, inflation, changes in interest rates, lack of liquidity in the bond markets or adverse investor sentiment. In addition, the value of a fixed income security may decline if the issuer or other obligor of the security fails to pay principal and/or interest, otherwise defaults or has its credit rating downgraded or is perceived to be less creditworthy, or the credit quality or value of any underlying assets declines. If the value of fixed-income securities owned by the Portfolio fall, the value of your investment will go down. The value of your investment will generally go down when interest rates rise. Interest rates have been at historically low levels, so the Portfolio faces a heightened risk that interest rates may rise. A general rise in interest rates may cause investors to move out of fixed-income securities on a large scale, which could adversely affect the price and liquidity of fixed-income securities. A rise in rates tends to have a greater impact on the prices of longer term or duration securities.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $200 million

     0.58

Over $200 million up to $500 million

     0.57  

Over $500 million

     0.54  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.75      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.00        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  17,120,241   $  8,963,036     $  22,275,454   $  9,637,233

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  178,752,362   $  4,798,480   $  (3,769,603)   $  1,028,877

11. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-08 (“ASU 2017-08”), “Receivables—Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs (Subtopic 310-20), Premium Amortization on Purchased Callable Debt Securities”. ASU 2017-08 amends the amortization period for certain purchased callable debt securities held at a premium, shortening such period to the earliest call date. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Management is currently evaluating the implication, if any, of the additional requirements and its impact on the Portfolio’s financial statements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

12. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    21


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and PineBridge Investments LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its primary benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its primary benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on November 10, 2014 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies and used a different benchmark.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica PineBridge Inflation Opportunities VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    24


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Service Class

  $   1,000.00     $   934.80     $   5.90     $   1,018.70     $   6.16       1.23
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Short-Term Investment Companies

     73.4

Repurchase Agreement

     18.3  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     8.3  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

  

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT COMPANIES - 73.4%  

Money Market Funds - 73.4%

 

State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund

    2,898,240        $  2,898,240  

Dreyfus Treasury Cash Management

    2,898,240        2,898,240  

UBS Select Treasury Preferred

    2,898,241        2,898,241  

BlackRock Liquidity Funds T-Fund Portfolio

    2,898,241        2,898,241  
    

 

 

 

Total Short-Term Investment Companies
(Cost $11,592,962)

 

     11,592,962  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 18.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (A), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $2,898,458 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $2,960,649.

    $  2,898,241        $   2,898,241  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $2,898,241)

 

     2,898,241  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $14,491,203)

 

     14,491,203  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 8.3%

       1,310,145  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  15,801,348  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:                       
Description    Long/Short   Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

   Short     (232     09/21/2018     $   (32,218,616   $   (31,570,560   $   648,056     $   —  

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (B)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Short-Term Investment Companies

  $ 11,592,962     $     $     $ 11,592,962  

Repurchase Agreement

          2,898,241             2,898,241  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 11,592,962     $ 2,898,241     $     $ 14,491,203  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (C)

  $ 648,056     $     $     $ 648,056  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ 648,056     $     $     $ 648,056  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Rate disclosed reflects the yield at June 30, 2018.
(B)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(C)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $11,592,962)

  $ 11,592,962  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $2,898,241)

    2,898,241  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    1,429,120  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    89,601  

Interest

    210  

Prepaid expenses

    17  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    16,010,151  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Due to custodian

    152,851  

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Investment management fees

    9,833  

Distribution and service fees

    3,020  

Transfer agent costs

    37  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    58  

Audit and tax fees

    7,315  

Custody fees

    1,577  

Legal fees

    431  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    9,453  

Variation margin payable on futures contracts

    24,000  

Other

    228  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    208,803  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 15,801,348  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 366,964  

Additional paid-in capital

    182,182,107  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    (25,763

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

      (167,370,016

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Futures contracts

    648,056  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 15,801,348  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

    36,696,408  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

  $ 0.43  
 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 64,851  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    64,851  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    64,829  

Distribution and service fees

    18,417  

Transfer agent costs

    97  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    238  

Audit and tax fees

    7,267  

Custody fees

    4,630  

Legal fees

    603  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    1,742  

Other

    315  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    98,138  
 

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

    (7,524
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    90,614  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    (25,763
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Futures contracts

    (2,365,548
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Futures contracts

    1,094,515  
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (1,271,033
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   (1,296,796
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ (25,763   $ (237,611

Net realized gain (loss)

    (2,365,548     (7,973,044

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    1,094,515       (320,392
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (1,296,796     (8,531,047
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    6,884,614       708,099  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (3,460,925     (13,378,500
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    3,423,689       (12,670,401
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    2,126,893       (21,201,448
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    13,674,455       34,875,903  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   15,801,348     $ 13,674,455  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ (25,763   $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    15,033,920       1,311,548  

Shares redeemed

    (8,024,594       (23,089,246
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    7,009,326       (21,777,698
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 0.46     $ 0.68     $ 0.89     $ 0.96     $ 1.29     $ 2.35  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    (C)       (0.01     (0.01 )(D)      (0.01     (0.01     (0.02

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.03     (0.21     (0.20     (0.06     (0.32     (1.04
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.03     (0.22     (0.21     (0.07     (0.33     (1.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 0.43     $ 0.46     $ 0.68     $ 0.89     $ 0.96     $ 1.29  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (E)

    (6.52 )%(F)      (32.35 )%      (23.60 )%      (7.29 )%      (25.58 )%      (45.11 )% 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   15,801     $   13,674     $   34,876     $   33,848     $   18,387     $   18,501  

Expenses to average net assets (G)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.33 %(H)      1.26     1.20     1.24     1.32     1.26

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.23 %(H)(I)      1.23     1.22 %(D)      1.23     1.23     1.23

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    (0.35 )%(H)      (1.10 )%      (1.17 )%(D)      (1.22 )%      (1.22 )%      (1.21 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    %(F)                     

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(D)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(E)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(F)    Not annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Annualized.
(I)    TAM has voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of its management fee. These amounts are not subject to recapture by TAM in future years.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as non-diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Cash overdraft: Throughout the period, the Portfolio may have cash overdraft balances. A fee is incurred on these overdrafts, calculated by multiplying the overdraft by a rate based on the federal funds rate.

Payables, if any, are reflected as Due to custodian within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Expenses, if any, from U.S. cash overdrafts are reflected in Custody fees within the Statement of Operations. Expenses, if any, from foreign cash overdrafts are reflected in Other expenses within the Statement of Operations.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Investment companies: Certain investment companies are valued at the NAV of the underlying portfolios as the practical expedient. These investment companies are not included within the fair value hierarchy. Certain other investment companies are valued at the actively traded NAV of the underlying portfolios and no valuation adjustments are applied. These investment companies are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

 

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Asset Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
    Credit
Contracts
    Commodity
Contracts
    Total  

Net unrealized appreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $     $ 648,056     $     $     $   648,056  

Total

  $     $     $   648,056     $   —     $   —     $ 648,056  
                                                 

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ (2,365,548    $      $      $ (2,365,548

Total

  $     $     $   (2,365,548    $   —      $   —      $   (2,365,548
                                                    
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ 1,094,515      $      $      $ 1,094,515  

Total

  $     $     $   1,094,515      $   —      $   —      $   1,094,515  

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount
Long   Short
  (11,129)

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

 

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Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $250 million

     0.88

Over $250 million up to $750 million

     0.83  

Over $750 million

     0.78  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Service Class

     1.23      May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available    
2015   2016   2017   2018   Total
$  1,123   $  1,042   $  7,531   $  7,524   $  17,220

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.25% of Service Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid

 

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Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

During the period ended June 30, 2018, there were no proceeds from securities purchased or securities sold (excluding short-term securities).

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  14,491,203   $  648,056   $  —   $  648,056

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and ProFund Advisors LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in

 

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Transamerica ProFund UltraBear VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3- and 5-year periods. The Trustees also noted recent changes in the Portfolio’s portfolio management team. The Trustees noted that TAM intends to monitor and report to the Board on the portfolio manager transition and performance going forward. The Board considered that the Portfolio’s investment objective is to seek returns that are twice the inverse of the Portfolio’s benchmark and that the Portfolio’s underperformance relative to its peer universe and benchmark (the S&P 500) was consistent with its investment approach given the leveraged nature of the Portfolio and the positive market environment during the relevant periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   985.90     $   2.86     $   1,021.90     $   2.91       0.58

Service Class

    1,000.00       984.90       4.08       1,020.70       4.16       0.83  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     60.7

U.S. Equity Funds

     23.4  

International Equity Funds

     9.8  

Securities Lending Collateral

     6.2  

International Fixed Income Fund

     4.4  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.4  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (4.9

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 98.3%  
International Equity Funds - 9.8%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol EAFE ETF (A)

    205,175        $  14,596,150  

Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US ETF

    376,712        19,528,750  

Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (A)

    120,452        6,516,453  
    

 

 

 
       40,641,353  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Fund - 4.4%  

Vanguard Total International Bond ETF (A)

    333,364        18,238,344  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 23.4%  

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    71,867        19,623,284  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF (A)

    206,970        11,002,525  

iShares Russell 1000 ETF

    386,132        58,684,342  

Vanguard Small-Cap Growth ETF (A)

    21,810        3,834,198  

Vanguard Small-Cap Value ETF (A)

    28,196        3,828,735  
    

 

 

 
       96,973,084  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 60.7%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    550,105        58,487,164  

iShares TIPS Bond ETF

    36,708        4,143,232  

SPDR Bloomberg Barclays Convertible Securities ETF (A)

    247,367        13,115,398  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    2,215,138        175,416,779  
    

 

 

 
       251,162,573  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $413,390,798)

 

     407,015,354  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 6.2%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (B)

    25,890,666        $   25,890,666  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $25,890,666)

 

     25,890,666  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $1,691,206 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $1,726,992.

    $  1,691,079        1,691,079  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $1,691,079)

 

     1,691,079  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $440,972,543)

 

     434,597,099  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (4.9)%

 

     (20,434,148
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  414,162,951  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 407,015,354     $     $     $ 407,015,354  

Securities Lending Collateral

    25,890,666                   25,890,666  

Repurchase Agreement

          1,691,079             1,691,079  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $   432,906,020     $   1,691,079     $   —     $   434,597,099  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $25,357,256. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $439,281,464) (including securities loaned of $25,357,256)

  $ 432,906,020  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $1,691,079)

    1,691,079  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Investments sold

    12,800,511  

Interest

    42  

Dividends

    181,885  

Net income from securities lending

    8,986  

Prepaid expenses

    1,437  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    447,589,960  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    702,247  

Investments purchased

    6,510,165  

Investment management fees

    185,035  

Distribution and service fees

    82,601  

Transfer agent costs

    969  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    1,667  

Audit and tax fees

    11,933  

Custody fees

    1,557  

Legal fees

    5,597  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    28,988  

Other

    5,584  

Collateral for securities on loan

    25,890,666  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    33,427,009  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 414,162,951  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 373,884  

Additional paid-in capital

    385,950,146  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    9,342,522  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    24,871,843  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    (6,375,444
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   414,162,951  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 4,308,487  

Service Class

    409,854,464  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    385,938  

Service Class

    37,002,423  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 11.16  

Service Class

    11.08  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

  $ 4,421,544  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

    36,560  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    63,469  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    4,521,573  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    1,184,584  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    529,535  

Transfer agent costs

    3,148  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    6,825  

Audit and tax fees

    11,311  

Custody fees

    8,626  

Legal fees

    13,541  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    4,797  

Other

    6,184  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    1,768,551  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,753,022  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

    32,264,504  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Unaffiliated investments

      (41,590,186
 

 

 

 
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)     (9,325,682
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (6,572,660
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

   

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,753,022     $ 6,643,406  

Net realized gain (loss)

    32,264,504       3,607,863  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (41,590,186     39,522,936  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (6,572,660     49,774,205  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

   

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (81,891

Service Class

          (7,676,564
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (7,758,455
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

   

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    725,515       201,307  

Service Class

    4,213,978       9,447,275  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    4,939,493       9,648,582  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          81,891  

Service Class

          7,676,564  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          7,758,455  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (576,788     (661,396

Service Class

    (32,664,642     (71,828,213
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (33,241,430     (72,489,609
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (28,301,937     (55,082,572
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (34,874,597     (13,066,822
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    449,037,548       462,104,370  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   414,162,951     $   449,037,548  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 9,342,522     $ 6,589,500  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    64,935       18,460  

Service Class

    376,513       873,980  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    441,448       892,440  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          7,576  

Service Class

          714,099  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          721,675  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (51,539     (60,831

Service Class

    (2,928,293     (6,702,560
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,979,832     (6,763,391
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:    

Initial Class

    13,396       (34,795

Service Class

    (2,551,780     (5,114,481
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,538,384     (5,149,276
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.32     $ 10.32     $ 10.18     $ 10.85     $ 11.01     $ 10.51  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

           

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.09       0.19       0.19 (C)       0.16       0.15       0.17  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.25     1.03       0.11       (0.39     0.29       0.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.16     1.22       0.30       (0.23     0.44       0.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

           

Net investment income

          (0.22     (0.16     (0.13     (0.14     (0.13

Net realized gains

                      (0.31     (0.46     (0.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.22     (0.16     (0.44     (0.60     (0.26
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.16     $ 11.32     $ 10.32     $ 10.18     $ 10.85     $ 11.01  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.41 )%(E)      11.92     2.87     (2.13 )%      3.97     7.39
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

           

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   4,309     $   4,218     $   4,204     $   4,298     $   5,747     $   10,602  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

           

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.58 %(G)      0.58     0.58     0.59     0.58     0.60

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.58 %(G)      0.58     0.57 %(C)      0.59     0.58     0.60

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.55 %(G)      1.73     1.87 %(C)      1.49     1.33     1.54

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    77 %(E)      3     143     240     158     114

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 11.25     $ 10.25     $ 10.11     $ 10.78     $ 10.96     $ 10.48  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

           

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.07       0.16       0.17 (C)       0.13       0.13       0.14  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.24     1.03       0.10       (0.38     0.27       0.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.17     1.19       0.27       (0.25     0.40       0.73  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

           

Net investment income

          (0.19     (0.13     (0.11     (0.12     (0.12

Net realized gains

                      (0.31     (0.46     (0.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.19     (0.13     (0.42     (0.58     (0.25
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.08     $ 11.25     $ 10.25     $ 10.11     $ 10.78     $ 10.96  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.51 )%(E)      11.70     2.65     (2.36 )%      3.61     7.07
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

           

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   409,854     $   444,820     $   457,900     $   466,880     $   444,972     $   363,485  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

           

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.83 %(G)      0.83     0.83     0.84     0.83     0.85

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.83 %(G)      0.83     0.82 %(C)      0.84     0.83     0.85

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.28 %(G)      1.47     1.61 %(C)      1.27     1.18     1.33

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    77 %(E)      3     143     240     158     114

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation—Conservative VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

     Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 25,890,666     $     $     $     $ 25,890,666  

Total Borrowings

  $   25,890,666     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   25,890,666  
                                         

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $50 million

     0.58

Over $50 million up to $250 million

     0.56  

Over $250 million up to $1 billion

     0.54  

Over $1 billion up to $1.5 billion

     0.52  

Over $1.5 billion up to $2.5 billion

     0.51  

Over $2.5 billion

     0.50  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.61      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.86        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  327,255,246     $  356,269,569

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  440,972,543   $  896,982   $  (7,272,426)   $  6,375,444

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and QS Investors, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2015 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Conservative VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   982.80     $   2.80     $   1,022.00     $   2.86       0.57

Service Class

    1,000.00       981.80       4.03       1,020.70       4.11       0.82  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)   

Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Equity Funds

     41.0

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     26.2  

International Equity Funds

     17.9  

Repurchase Agreement

     4.0  

International Fixed Income Fund

     3.9  

Securities Lending Collateral

     3.7  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     3.3  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 89.0%  
International Equity Funds - 17.9%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol EAFE ETF

    178,672        $  12,710,726  

Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US ETF

    1,636,901        84,856,948  

Vanguard Total International Stock ETF

    519,774        28,119,773  
    

 

 

 
       125,687,447  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Fund - 3.9%  

Vanguard Total International Bond ETF

    493,454        26,996,868  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 41.0%  

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    237,036        64,722,680  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF

    94,159        5,005,492  

iShares Russell 1000 ETF (A)

    1,281,742        194,799,149  

Vanguard Small-Cap Growth ETF (A)

    63,675        11,194,065  

Vanguard Small-Cap Value ETF

    82,363        11,184,072  
    

 

 

 
       286,905,458  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 26.2%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    383,231        40,745,120  

iShares TIPS Bond ETF

    74,702        8,431,615  

SPDR Bloomberg Barclays Convertible Securities ETF

    223,644        11,857,605  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    1,546,107        122,436,213  
    

 

 

 
       183,470,553  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $630,717,328)

 

     623,060,326  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 3.7%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (B)

    26,075,723        $   26,075,723  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $26,075,723)

 

     26,075,723  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 4.0%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $27,729,022 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $28,282,560.

    $  27,726,943        27,726,943  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $27,726,943)

 

     27,726,943  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $684,519,994)

 

     676,862,992  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 3.3%

       23,247,162  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  700,110,154  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 623,060,326     $     $     $ 623,060,326  

Securities Lending Collateral

    26,075,723                   26,075,723  

Repurchase Agreement

          27,726,943             27,726,943  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 649,136,049     $ 27,726,943     $     $ 676,862,992  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $25,530,097. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $656,793,051)
(including securities loaned of $25,530,097)

   $ 649,136,049  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $27,726,943)

     27,726,943  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Investments sold

     49,576,613  

Interest

     693  

Dividends

     407,158  

Net income from securities lending

     7,588  

Prepaid expenses

     2,566  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     726,857,610  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     152,585  

Investment management fees

     311,115  

Distribution and service fees

     135,809  

Transfer agent costs

     1,445  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     2,681  

Audit and tax fees

     14,194  

Custody fees

     1,727  

Legal fees

     7,303  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     36,195  

Other

     8,679  

Collateral for securities on loan

     26,075,723  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     26,747,456  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   700,110,154  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 589,133  

Additional paid-in capital

     651,128,779  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     12,995,119  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     43,054,125  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Unaffiliated investments

     (7,657,002
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 700,110,154  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 29,785,249  

Service Class

     670,324,905  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     2,485,018  

Service Class

     56,428,260  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 11.99  

Service Class

     11.88  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

   $ 6,307,562  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

     217,589  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     164,984  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     6,690,135  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     1,981,863  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     865,657  

Transfer agent costs

     5,234  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     11,408  

Audit and tax fees

     13,861  

Custody fees

     9,905  

Legal fees

     21,386  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     16,832  

Other

     9,805  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

     2,935,951  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     3,754,184  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Unaffiliated investments

     109,650,029  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Unaffiliated investments

       (126,546,817
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     (16,896,788
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ (13,142,604
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

     June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
     December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 3,754,184      $ 9,291,255  

Net realized gain (loss)

     109,650,029        3,173,105  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (126,546,817      117,622,750  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

     (13,142,604      130,087,110  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

     

Initial Class

            (458,014

Service Class

            (8,629,307
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

            (9,087,321
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

     

Initial Class

     467,814        1,506,537  

Service Class

     9,272,909        12,942,714  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     9,740,723        14,449,251  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

     

Initial Class

            458,014  

Service Class

            8,629,307  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
            9,087,321  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

     

Initial Class

     (1,816,855      (3,674,902

Service Class

     (39,371,983      (73,166,543
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     (41,188,838      (76,841,445
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

     (31,448,115      (53,304,873
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

     (44,590,719      67,694,916  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net assets:

     

Beginning of period/year

     744,700,873        677,005,957  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

End of period/year

   $   700,110,154      $   744,700,873  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

   $ 12,995,119      $ 9,240,935  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

     

Initial Class

     38,324        134,260  

Service Class

     751,784        1,144,741  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     790,108        1,279,001  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

     

Initial Class

            41,114  

Service Class

            779,522  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
            820,636  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

     

Initial Class

     (148,632      (328,587

Service Class

     (3,262,549      (6,646,960
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     (3,411,181      (6,975,547
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

     

Initial Class

     (110,308      (153,213

Service Class

     (2,510,765      (4,722,697
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     (2,621,073      (4,875,910
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.19     $ 10.27     $ 10.17     $ 11.70     $ 11.90     $ 10.27  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.08       0.18       0.15 (C)       0.14       0.17       0.16  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.28     1.91       0.09       (0.87     0.24       1.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.20     2.09       0.24       (0.73     0.41       1.73  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.17     (0.14     (0.14     (0.10     (0.10

Net realized gains

                      (0.66     (0.51      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.17     (0.14     (0.80     (0.61     (0.10
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.99     $ 12.19     $ 10.27     $ 10.17     $ 11.70     $ 11.90  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.64 )%(E)      20.55     2.32     (6.38 )%      3.42     16.96
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   29,785     $   31,642     $   28,226     $   30,709     $   34,540     $   35,102  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.57 %(G)      0.57     0.57     0.58     0.57     0.59

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.57 %(G)      0.57     0.56 %(C)      0.58     0.57     0.59

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.28 %(G)      1.57     1.51 %(C)      1.22     1.39     1.45

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    154 %(E)      23     212     454     344     111

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.10     $ 10.19     $ 10.10     $ 11.62     $ 11.83     $ 10.23  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.06       0.15       0.13 (C)       0.11       0.14       0.15  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.28     1.91       0.07       (0.86     0.25       1.54  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.22     2.06       0.20       (0.75     0.39       1.69  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.15     (0.11     (0.11     (0.09     (0.09

Net realized gains

                      (0.66     (0.51      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.15     (0.11     (0.77     (0.60     (0.09
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.88     $ 12.10     $ 10.19     $ 10.10     $ 11.62     $ 11.83  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.82 )%(E)      20.30     1.97     (6.53 )%      3.23     16.62
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   670,325     $   713,059     $   648,780     $   710,709     $   713,097     $   486,961  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.82 %(G)      0.82     0.82     0.83     0.82     0.84

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.82 %(G)      0.82     0.81 %(C)      0.83     0.82     0.84

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.03 %(G)      1.31     1.26 %(C)      1.00     1.21     1.39

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    154 %(E)      23     212     454     344     111

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation—Moderate Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 26,075,723     $     $     $     $ 26,075,723  

Total Borrowings

  $   26,075,723     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   26,075,723  
                                         

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

 

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital, Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS, and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $50 million

     0.58

Over $50 million up to $250 million

     0.56  

Over $250 million up to $1 billion

     0.54  

Over $1 billion up to $1.5 billion

     0.52  

Over $1.5 billion up to $2.5 billion

     0.51  

Over $2.5 billion

     0.50  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.67    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.92      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

 

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  1,051,046,833     $  1,148,630,669

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  684,519,994   $  415,600   $  (8,072,602)   $  (7,657,002)

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and QS Investors, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

(ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short- term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2015 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions and purchases and sales of

portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   986.00     $   2.76     $   1,022.00     $   2.81       0.56

Service Class

    1,000.00       984.30       3.99       1,020.80       4.06       0.81  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

U.S. Fixed Income Funds

     45.4

U.S. Equity Funds

     30.4  

International Equity Funds

     13.5  

Securities Lending Collateral

     7.8  

International Fixed Income Fund

     4.6  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.1  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (2.8

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS - 93.9%  
International Equity Funds - 13.5%  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol EAFE ETF (A)

    612,399        $  43,566,065  

Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US ETF (A)

    2,390,043        123,899,829  

Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (A)

    755,806        40,889,105  
    

 

 

 
       208,354,999  
    

 

 

 
International Fixed Income Fund - 4.6%  

Vanguard Total International Bond ETF (A)

    1,284,678        70,284,733  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Equity Funds - 30.4%  

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    374,510        102,259,956  

iShares Edge MSCI Min Vol USA ETF (A)

    459,179        24,409,956  

iShares Russell 1000 ETF

    2,018,926        306,836,373  

Vanguard Small-Cap Growth ETF (A)

    104,219        18,321,700  

Vanguard Small-Cap Value ETF (A)

    134,731        18,295,122  
    

 

 

 
       470,123,107  
    

 

 

 
U.S. Fixed Income Funds - 45.4%  

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

    1,512,755        160,836,112  

iShares TIPS Bond ETF

    171,058        19,307,316  

SPDR Bloomberg Barclays Convertible Securities ETF

    726,797        38,534,777  

Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF

    6,104,240        483,394,766  
    

 

 

 
       702,072,971  
    

 

 

 

Total Exchange-Traded Funds
(Cost $1,464,309,005)

 

       1,450,835,810  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 7.8%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (B)

      119,648,919        $   119,648,919  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $119,648,919)

 

     119,648,919  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.1%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (B), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $17,325,602 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 1.88%, due 02/28/2022, and with a value of $17,671,096.

    $  17,324,303        17,324,303  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $17,324,303)

 

     17,324,303  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $1,601,282,227)

 

     1,587,809,032  
Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (2.8)%      (43,054,153)  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

 

     $  1,544,754,879  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 - 
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 - 
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 - 
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 1,450,835,810     $     $     $ 1,450,835,810  

Securities Lending Collateral

    119,648,919                   119,648,919  

Repurchase Agreement

          17,324,303             17,324,303  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 1,570,484,729     $ 17,324,303     $     $ 1,587,809,032  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $117,081,634. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018 (unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Unaffiliated investments, at value (cost $1,583,957,924)
(including securities loaned of $117,081,634)

   $ 1,570,484,729  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $17,324,303)

     17,324,303  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

     2,633  

Investments sold

     77,383,740  

Interest

     433  

Dividends

     747,164  

Net income from securities lending

     41,019  

Prepaid expenses

     5,363  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     1,665,989,384  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     495,194  

Investment management fees

     665,351  

Distribution and service fees

     309,674  

Transfer agent costs

     3,225  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     5,744  

Audit and tax fees

     21,980  

Custody fees

     2,575  

Legal fees

     17,410  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     44,998  

Other

     19,435  

Collateral for securities on loan

     119,648,919  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     121,234,505  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 1,544,754,879  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 1,298,901  

Additional paid-in capital

     1,443,701,697  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     31,785,136  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     81,442,340  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Unaffiliated investments

     (13,473,195
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   1,544,754,879  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 2,557,117  

Service Class

     1,542,197,762  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     212,926  

Service Class

     129,677,177  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 12.01  

Service Class

     11.89  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018 (unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income from unaffiliated investments

   $ 15,343,315  

Interest income from unaffiliated investments

     238,516  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     290,407  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     15,872,238  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     4,192,786  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     1,953,030  

Transfer agent costs

     11,322  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     24,680  

Audit and tax fees

     21,125  

Custody fees

     14,825  

Legal fees

     47,283  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     21,917  

Other

     21,581  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

     6,308,549  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     9,563,689  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Unaffiliated investments

     166,267,869  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Unaffiliated investments

     (200,318,306
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     (34,050,437
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   (24,486,748
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 9,563,689     $ 22,279,000  

Net realized gain (loss)

    166,267,869       9,275,849  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (200,318,306     193,265,040  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (24,486,748     224,819,889  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (43,989

Service Class

          (24,131,081
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (24,175,070
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    157,483       210,343  

Service Class

    12,670,071       23,100,526  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    12,827,554       23,310,869  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          43,989  

Service Class

          24,131,081  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          24,175,070  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (148,483     (658,796

Service Class

    (59,752,902     (175,040,974
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (59,901,385     (175,699,770
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (47,073,831     (128,213,831
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (71,560,579     72,430,988  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    1,616,315,458       1,543,884,470  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   1,544,754,879     $   1,616,315,458  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 31,785,136     $ 22,221,447  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    13,063       18,257  

Service Class

    1,057,644       2,014,057  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,070,707       2,032,314  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          3,859  

Service Class

          2,131,721  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,135,580  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (12,036     (57,706

Service Class

    (4,956,876     (15,552,381
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (4,968,912     (15,610,087
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    1,027       (35,590

Service Class

    (3,899,232     (11,406,603
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (3,898,205     (11,442,193
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.18     $ 10.72     $ 10.62     $ 11.68     $ 11.59     $ 10.52  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.09       0.19       0.19 (C)       0.16       0.17       0.18  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.26     1.48       0.07       (0.63     0.28       1.01  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.17     1.67       0.26       (0.47     0.45       1.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.21     (0.16     (0.13     (0.09     (0.06

Net realized gains

                      (0.46     (0.27     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.21     (0.16     (0.59     (0.36     (0.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 12.01     $ 12.18     $ 10.72     $ 10.62     $ 11.68     $ 11.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.40 )%(E)      15.71     2.43     (4.05 )%      3.88     11.42
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   2,557     $   2,582     $   2,653     $   2,788     $   3,150     $   2,979  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.56 %(G)      0.56     0.55     0.57     0.57     0.58

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.56 %(G)      0.56     0.55 %(C)      0.57     0.57     0.58

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.49 %(G)      1.65     1.75 %(C)      1.38     1.41     1.59

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    113 %(E)      18     165     330     210     86

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 12.08     $ 10.63     $ 10.53     $ 11.59     $ 11.52     $ 10.48  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

 

Net investment income (loss) (A) (B)

    0.07       0.16       0.16 (C)       0.13       0.15       0.16  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.26     1.47       0.07       (0.62     0.26       1.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.19     1.63       0.23       (0.49     0.41       1.16  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

 

Net investment income

          (0.18     (0.13     (0.11     (0.07     (0.06

Net realized gains

                      (0.46     (0.27     (0.06
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.18     (0.13     (0.57     (0.34     (0.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 11.89     $ 12.08     $ 10.63     $ 10.53     $ 11.59     $ 11.52  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.57 )%(E)      15.44     2.18     (4.28 )%      3.62     11.12
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   1,542,198     $   1,613,733     $   1,541,231     $   1,637,702     $   1,690,334     $   991,431  

Expenses to average net assets (F)

 

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.81 %(G)      0.81     0.80     0.82     0.82     0.83

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.81 %(G)      0.81     0.80 %(C)      0.82     0.82     0.83

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets (B)

    1.22 %(G)      1.42     1.50 %(C)      1.15     1.26     1.47

Portfolio turnover rate (H)

    113 %(E)      18     165     330     210     86

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation—Moderate VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividends and net realized gains (losses) are from investments in shares of underlying portfolios. Dividend income and capital gain distributions from underlying portfolios, if any, are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, if any, is accrued as earned. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as dividend income. Long-term capital gain distributions received from underlying portfolios are recorded as realized gains.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Exchange-traded funds (“ETF”): ETFs are stated at the last reported sale price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the ETF is principally traded. ETFs are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Exchange-Traded Funds

  $ 119,648,919     $     $     $     $ 119,648,919  

Total Borrowings

  $   119,648,919     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   119,648,919  
                                         

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $50 million

     0.58

Over $50 million up to $250 million

     0.56  

Over $250 million up to $1 billion

     0.54  

Over $1 billion up to $1.5 billion

     0.52  

Over $1.5 billion up to $2.5 billion

     0.51  

Over $2.5 billion

     0.50  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.68      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     0.93        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

6. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales of Securities
$  1,718,110,016     $  1,841,319,428

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  1,601,282,227   $  1,655,715   $  (15,128,910)   $  (13,473,195)

8. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and QS Investors, LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 1-year period and below the median for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its composite benchmark for the past 1-year period and below its composite benchmark for the past 3- and 5-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on July 1, 2015 pursuant to its current investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica QS Investors Active Asset Allocation – Moderate VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,021.90     $   4.16     $   1,020.70     $   4.16       0.83

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,021.00       5.41       1,019.40       5.41       1.08  

 

(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.2

Securities Lending Collateral

     2.7  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.2  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (0.1

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.2%  
Aerospace & Defense - 0.8%  

Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. (A)

    64,000        $  1,887,360  

Cubic Corp.

    18,500        1,187,700  

Curtiss-Wright Corp.

    11,000        1,309,220  

Elbit Systems, Ltd.

    500        59,370  
    

 

 

 
       4,443,650  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 1.8%             

Alaska Air Group, Inc.

    102,500        6,189,975  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (A)

    63,200        4,406,936  
    

 

 

 
       10,596,911  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.9%             

Dana, Inc.

    34,200        690,498  

Gentex Corp.

    29,700        683,694  

Stoneridge, Inc. (A)

    63,000        2,213,820  

Visteon Corp. (A)

    13,450        1,738,278  
    

 

 

 
       5,326,290  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 6.7%             

Bank of Princeton (A)

    25,100        834,575  

Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc.

    79,112        3,211,947  

CIT Group, Inc.

    123,000        6,200,430  

Evans Bancorp, Inc.

    8,400        387,240  

First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A

    12,257        4,943,248  

First Community Bancshares, Inc.

    87,254        2,779,913  

First Republic Bank

    10,500        1,016,295  

Hanmi Financial Corp.

    50,100        1,420,335  

Hope Bancorp, Inc.

    84,772        1,511,485  

Lakeland Bancorp, Inc.

    148,000        2,937,800  

Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc.

    74,100        3,038,841  

Sterling Bancorp

    116,000        2,726,000  

Umpqua Holdings Corp.

    102,000        2,304,180  

Union Bankshares Corp.

    33,100        1,286,928  

United Community Banks, Inc.

    64,500        1,978,215  

Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc.

    23,503        1,365,524  

Webster Financial Corp.

    17,200        1,095,640  
    

 

 

 
       39,038,596  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 1.1%             

Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B

    93,100        6,334,524  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 0.6%             

United Therapeutics Corp. (A)

    32,200        3,643,430  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 1.5%             

American Woodmark Corp. (A)

    8,500        778,175  

Continental Building Products, Inc. (A)

    119,500        3,770,225  

Gibraltar Industries, Inc. (A)

    18,800        705,000  

Insteel Industries, Inc.

    15,500        517,700  

JELD-WEN Holding, Inc. (A)

    51,200        1,463,808  

Masonite International Corp. (A)

    10,700        768,795  

PGT Innovations, Inc. (A)

    46,500        969,525  
    

 

 

 
       8,973,228  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 1.2%             

E*TRADE Financial Corp. (A)

    25,500        1,559,580  

Legg Mason, Inc.

    44,600        1,548,958  

Piper Jaffray Cos.

    26,000        1,998,100  

Stifel Financial Corp.

    32,200        1,682,450  

Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., Class A

    25,000        449,250  
    

 

 

 
       7,238,338  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Chemicals - 2.0%             

Chase Corp.

    5,700        $   668,325  

Methanex Corp.

    20,500        1,449,350  

PPG Industries, Inc.

    59,200        6,140,816  

Trinseo SA

    27,500        1,951,125  

Venator Materials PLC (A)

    88,000        1,439,680  
    

 

 

 
       11,649,296  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 1.3%             

HNI Corp.

    18,000        669,600  

Knoll, Inc.

    40,000        832,400  

Stericycle, Inc. (A)

    67,700        4,420,133  

Tetra Tech, Inc.

    31,500        1,842,750  
    

 

 

 
       7,764,883  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 1.7%             

ARRIS International PLC (A)

    217,936        5,327,445  

KVH Industries, Inc. (A)

    218,382        2,926,319  

NETGEAR, Inc. (A)

    31,000        1,937,500  
    

 

 

 
       10,191,264  
    

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering - 1.4%             

Comfort Systems USA, Inc.

    47,000        2,152,600  

EMCOR Group, Inc.

    32,000        2,437,760  

Granite Construction, Inc.

    29,600        1,647,536  

KBR, Inc.

    113,500        2,033,920  
    

 

 

 
       8,271,816  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.3%             

US Concrete, Inc. (A) (B)

    30,450        1,598,625  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.5%             

Ally Financial, Inc.

    101,900        2,676,913  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 1.1%             

Ball Corp.

    172,100        6,118,155  
    

 

 

 
Distributors - 0.6%             

LKQ Corp. (A)

    108,800        3,470,720  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.5%             

H&R Block, Inc.

    115,600        2,633,368  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 0.6%             

Voya Financial, Inc.

    71,586        3,364,542  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 5.0%             

Alliant Energy Corp.

    161,800        6,847,376  

FirstEnergy Corp.

    212,600        7,634,466  

PG&E Corp.

    102,200        4,349,632  

PPL Corp.

    359,000        10,249,450  
    

 

 

 
       29,080,924  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.6%             

LSI Industries, Inc.

    116,000        619,440  

Regal Beloit Corp.

    30,500        2,494,900  

Revolution Lighting Technologies, Inc. (A) (B)

    85,600        344,968  
    

 

 

 
       3,459,308  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 3.0%  

Avnet, Inc.

    109,429        4,693,410  

Belden, Inc. (B)

    19,750        1,207,120  

Benchmark Electronics, Inc.

    29,500        859,925  

Control4 Corp. (A)

    102,000        2,479,620  

Daktronics, Inc.

    36,000        306,360  

Electro Scientific Industries, Inc. (A) (B)

    30,800        485,716  

Methode Electronics, Inc.

    32,500        1,309,750  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components (continued)  

Orbotech, Ltd. (A)

    71,263        $   4,404,053  

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.

    85,400        1,981,280  
    

 

 

 
       17,727,234  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.2%             

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

    20,700        1,319,832  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 7.6%  

Brandywine Realty Trust

    103,000        1,738,640  

Colony Capital, Inc. (B)

    940,300        5,867,472  

Community Healthcare Trust, Inc.

    87,500        2,613,625  

DiamondRock Hospitality Co.

    210,000        2,578,800  

Iron Mountain, Inc.

    104,200        3,648,042  

JBG Smith Properties

    157,400        5,740,378  

Lexington Realty Trust

    221,000        1,929,330  

National Retail Properties, Inc.

    14,200        624,232  

Outfront Media, Inc.

    50,000        972,500  

Physicians Realty Trust

    112,300        1,790,062  

Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc., Class A

    44,500        886,885  

Sabra Health Care REIT, Inc.

    84,200        1,829,666  

Summit Hotel Properties, Inc.

    185,500        2,654,505  

Uniti Group, Inc. (B)

    175,204        3,509,336  

VEREIT, Inc.

    1,048,600        7,801,584  
    

 

 

 
       44,185,057  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 2.5%             

Casey’s General Stores, Inc.

    80,270        8,434,772  

US Foods Holding Corp. (A)

    163,200        6,172,224  
    

 

 

 
       14,606,996  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 2.3%             

J.M. Smucker, Co.

    54,200        5,825,416  

Kellogg Co.

    79,300        5,540,691  

Post Holdings, Inc. (A)

    21,400        1,840,828  
    

 

 

 
       13,206,935  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 2.7%             

DENTSPLY SIRONA, Inc.

    157,700        6,902,529  

Meridian Bioscience, Inc.

    123,500        1,963,650  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    63,100        7,031,864  
    

 

 

 
       15,898,043  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 4.2%             

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    52,100        4,442,567  

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc. (A)

    22,500        1,318,500  

Cardinal Health, Inc.

    143,192        6,992,065  

Cross Country Healthcare, Inc. (A)

    57,200        643,500  

Encompass Health Corp.

    35,200        2,383,744  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings (A)

    24,300        4,362,579  

MEDNAX, Inc. (A)

    97,000        4,198,160  
    

 

 

 
       24,341,115  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 0.2%             

Omnicell, Inc. (A)

    20,900        1,096,205  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.3%             

Caesars Entertainment Corp. (A)

    493,500        5,280,450  

Churchill Downs, Inc.

    7,000        2,075,500  
    

 

 

 
       7,355,950  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.5%             

Helen of Troy, Ltd. (A)

    17,200        1,693,340  

La-Z-Boy, Inc.

    36,700        1,123,020  
    

 

 

 
       2,816,360  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Household Products - 0.4%             

Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. (B)

    26,450        $   2,158,849  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.9%  

AES Corp.

    384,000        5,149,440  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 8.6%             

Alleghany Corp.

    13,700        7,877,089  

Allstate Corp.

    29,100        2,655,957  

Arch Capital Group, Ltd. (A)

    166,000        4,392,360  

Aspen Insurance Holdings, Ltd.

    29,500        1,200,650  

FNF Group

    119,700        4,503,114  

Loews Corp.

    142,000        6,855,760  

Markel Corp. (A)

    4,000        4,337,400  

Progressive Corp.

    88,300        5,222,945  

Selective Insurance Group, Inc.

    63,683        3,502,565  

United Fire Group, Inc.

    65,639        3,577,982  

Willis Towers Watson PLC

    40,300        6,109,480  
    

 

 

 
       50,235,302  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.8%             

Liberty Expedia Holdings, Inc., Class A (A)

    98,100        4,310,514  

Nutrisystem, Inc.

    11,750        452,375  
    

 

 

 
       4,762,889  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 0.3%             

IAC/InterActiveCorp (A)

    11,500        1,753,635  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 1.9%             

Leidos Holdings, Inc.

    132,300        7,805,700  

MAXIMUS, Inc.

    55,600        3,453,316  
    

 

 

 
       11,259,016  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 2.7%             

Altra Industrial Motion Corp.

    35,500        1,530,050  

Columbus McKinnon Corp.

    46,963        2,036,316  

Douglas Dynamics, Inc.

    41,000        1,968,000  

Gencor Industries, Inc. (A)

    86,000        1,388,900  

Mueller Industries, Inc.

    61,500        1,814,865  

Oshkosh Corp.

    17,700        1,244,664  

Terex Corp.

    10,000        421,900  

Trinity Industries, Inc.

    106,300        3,641,838  

Watts Water Technologies, Inc., Class A

    23,500        1,842,400  
    

 

 

 
       15,888,933  
    

 

 

 
Media - 5.7%             

AMC Networks, Inc., Class A (A)

    51,793        3,221,525  

Discovery, Inc., Class C (A)

    227,944        5,812,572  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (A)

    227,400        7,642,914  

Liberty Media Corp. - Liberty SiriusXM, Class C (A)

    54,044        2,451,436  

Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., Class B

    57,879        1,357,841  

MSG Networks, Inc., Class A (A)

    136,500        3,269,175  

News Corp., Class A

    276,900        4,291,950  

Viacom, Inc., Class B

    173,000        5,217,680  
    

 

 

 
       33,265,093  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.8%             

Commercial Metals Co.

    85,000        1,794,350  

Kaiser Aluminum Corp.

    17,100        1,780,281  

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc., Class A

    19,400        653,780  

TimkenSteel Corp. (A)

    37,000        604,950  
    

 

 

 
       4,833,361  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts - 1.2%  

Annaly Capital Management, Inc.

    668,789        $   6,881,839  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 1.3%             

NorthWestern Corp.

    50,800        2,908,300  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    72,100        4,661,265  
    

 

 

 
       7,569,565  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 3.9%             

Antero Resources Corp. (A)

    286,400        6,114,640  

Callon Petroleum Co. (A)

    137,000        1,471,380  

Delek US Holdings, Inc.

    18,644        935,369  

Energen Corp. (A)

    29,500        2,148,190  

Gulfport Energy Corp. (A)

    116,400        1,463,148  

Range Resources Corp.

    202,600        3,389,498  

REX American Resources Corp. (A)

    19,700        1,595,109  

Williams Cos., Inc.

    198,200        5,373,202  
    

 

 

 
       22,490,536  
    

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products - 0.5%             

Domtar Corp.

    38,900        1,857,086  

P.H. Glatfelter Co.

    41,500        812,985  
    

 

 

 
       2,670,071  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 0.2%             

Nektar Therapeutics (A)

    22,150        1,081,584  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 1.2%             

ASGN, Inc. (A)

    25,500        1,993,845  

FTI Consulting, Inc. (A)

    13,300        804,384  

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

    61,500        2,152,500  

ICF International, Inc.

    30,500        2,167,025  
    

 

 

 
       7,117,754  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.3%  

Newmark Group, Inc., Class A

    134,100        1,908,243  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.2%             

AMERCO

    3,900        1,388,985  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 2.8%  

AXT, Inc. (A)

    131,000        923,550  

Brooks Automation, Inc.

    35,000        1,141,700  

Cohu, Inc.

    112,700        2,762,277  

Entegris, Inc.

    55,000        1,864,500  

MKS Instruments, Inc.

    20,000        1,914,000  

Qorvo, Inc. (A)

    22,200        1,779,774  

Silicon Motion Technology Corp., ADR (B)

    48,800        2,581,032  

Universal Display Corp. (B)

    22,200        1,909,200  

Xcerra Corp. (A)

    93,500        1,306,195  
    

 

 

 
       16,182,228  
    

 

 

 
Software - 1.0%             

Dell Technologies, Inc., Class V (A)

    29,600        2,503,568  

Open Text Corp.

    49,000        1,724,310  

TiVo Corp.

    99,117        1,333,124  
    

 

 

 
       5,561,002  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 2.7%             

Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Class A

    82,300        2,014,704  

Advance Auto Parts, Inc.

    19,600        2,659,720  

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

    143,000        3,324,750  

Foot Locker, Inc.

    80,200        4,222,530  

Urban Outfitters, Inc. (A)

    35,900        1,599,345  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Specialty Retail (continued)             

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (B)

    34,500        $   2,117,610  
    

 

 

 
       15,938,659  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.8%  

NCR Corp. (A)

    146,000        4,377,080  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 1.2%  

Deckers Outdoor Corp. (A)

    17,800        2,009,442  

Michael Kors Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    48,000        3,196,800  

Steven Madden, Ltd.

    36,000        1,911,600  
    

 

 

 
       7,117,842  
    

 

 

 
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance - 1.9%  

Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.

    88,500        1,725,750  

Oritani Financial Corp.

    30,000        486,000  

Provident Financial Services, Inc.

    70,000        1,927,100  

TrustCo Bank Corp.

    112,500        1,001,250  

United Financial Bancorp, Inc.

    169,881        2,976,315  

Washington Federal, Inc.

    91,500        2,992,050  
    

 

 

 
       11,108,465  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 1.2%  

AerCap Holdings NV (A)

    129,600        7,017,840  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $486,699,297)

       566,146,719  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 2.7%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    15,342,720        15,342,720  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $15,342,720)

 

     15,342,720  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.2%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $1,434,383 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $1,467,715.

    $  1,434,275        1,434,275  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $1,434,275)

 

     1,434,275  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $503,476,292)

 

     582,923,714  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (0.1)%

       (571,836
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  582,351,878  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 566,146,719     $     $     $ 566,146,719  

Securities Lending Collateral

    15,342,720                   15,342,720  

Repurchase Agreement

          1,434,275             1,434,275  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 581,489,439     $ 1,434,275     $     $ 582,923,714  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $14,956,864. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR

American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $502,042,017)
(including securities loaned of $14,956,864)

  $ 581,489,439  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $1,434,275)

    1,434,275  

Cash

    12,860,553  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    49,985  

Investments sold

    3,594,292  

Interest

    36  

Dividends

    1,167,186  

Tax reclaims

    496  

Net income from securities lending

    4,715  

Prepaid expenses

    1,951  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    600,602,928  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    381,445  

Investments purchased

    2,014,696  

Investment management fees

    366,569  

Distribution and service fees

    40,306  

Transfer agent costs

    1,213  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,204  

Audit and tax fees

    13,106  

Custody fees

    6,277  

Legal fees

    6,632  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    69,516  

Other

    6,366  

Collateral for securities on loan

    15,342,720  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    18,251,050  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   582,351,878  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 267,367  

Additional paid-in capital

    425,450,646  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    7,856,632  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    69,329,918  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    79,447,422  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (107
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 582,351,878  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 381,618,417  

Service Class

    200,733,461  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    17,360,089  

Service Class

    9,376,634  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 21.98  

Service Class

    21.41  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 5,957,538  

Interest income

    10,407  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    33,749  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (13,720
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    5,987,974  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    2,272,105  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    249,530  

Transfer agent costs

    4,181  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    9,162  

Audit and tax fees

    13,106  

Custody fees

    37,506  

Legal fees

    17,544  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    33,261  

Other

    7,243  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,643,638  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    3,344,336  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    20,937,523  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (11,539,529

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (14
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (11,539,543
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    9,397,980  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 12,742,316  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 3,344,336     $ 2,645,402  

Net realized gain (loss)

    20,937,523       52,171,749  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (11,539,543     28,656,120  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    12,742,316       83,473,271  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (4,300,729

Service Class

          (1,889,972
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (6,190,701
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (33,493,197

Service Class

          (17,836,614
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (51,329,811
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (57,520,512
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    8,916,090       15,699,367  

Service Class

    4,658,086       19,873,607  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    13,574,176       35,572,974  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          37,793,926  

Service Class

          19,726,586  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          57,520,512  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (31,662,416     (53,152,447

Service Class

    (14,762,615     (29,379,673
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (46,425,031     (82,532,120
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (32,850,855     10,561,366  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (20,108,539     36,514,125  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    602,460,417       565,946,292  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   582,351,878     $   602,460,417  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 7,856,632     $ 4,512,296  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

   

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    419,528       748,415  

Service Class

    223,661       953,237  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    643,189       1,701,652  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          1,951,158  

Service Class

          1,043,735  
          2,994,893  

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (1,460,229     (2,488,819

Service Class

    (702,125     (1,416,014
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,162,354     (3,904,833
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (1,040,701     210,754  

Service Class

    (478,464     580,958  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,519,165     791,712  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 21.51     $ 20.76     $ 19.16     $ 22.68     $ 23.67     $ 17.47  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.13       0.12       0.24 (B)       0.15       0.19       0.20  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.34       2.86       3.57       (0.77     1.04       6.13  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.47       2.98       3.81       (0.62     1.23       6.33  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.25     (0.16     (0.23     (0.19     (0.09

Net realized gains

          (1.98     (2.05     (2.67     (2.03     (0.04
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (2.23     (2.21     (2.90     (2.22     (0.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 21.98     $ 21.51     $ 20.76     $ 19.16     $ 22.68     $ 23.67  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    2.19 %(D)      15.55     21.13     (2.51 )%      5.23     36.32
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   381,618     $   395,777     $   377,647     $   436,364     $   686,546     $   739,394  

Expenses to average net assets

           

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.83 %(E)      0.83     0.87     0.85     0.85     0.86

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.83 %(E)      0.83     0.86 %(B)      0.85     0.85     0.86

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.24 %(E)      0.54     1.27 %(B)      0.67     0.82     0.96

Portfolio turnover rate

    32 %(D)      54     128     64     95     106

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 20.97     $ 20.30     $ 18.78     $ 22.28     $ 23.31     $ 17.22  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.10       0.06       0.21 (B)       0.09       0.13       0.15  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.34       2.80       3.47       (0.74     1.02       6.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.44       2.86       3.68       (0.65     1.15       6.19  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.21     (0.11     (0.18     (0.15     (0.06

Net realized gains

          (1.98     (2.05     (2.67     (2.03     (0.04
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (2.19     (2.16     (2.85     (2.18     (0.10
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 21.41     $ 20.97     $ 20.30     $ 18.78     $ 22.28     $ 23.31  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    2.10 %(D)      15.26     20.80     (2.73 )%      4.93     36.04
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   200,734     $   206,683     $   188,299     $   160,561     $   175,537     $   167,607  

Expenses to average net assets

           

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.08 %(E)      1.08     1.12     1.10     1.10     1.11

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.08 %(E)      1.08     1.10 %(B)      1.10     1.10     1.11

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.99 %(E)      0.29     1.13 %(B)      0.43     0.58     0.71

Portfolio turnover rate

    32 %(D)      54     128     64     95     106

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $25,746.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Common Stocks

  $ 15,342,720     $     $     $     $ 15,342,720  

Total Borrowings

  $ 15,342,720     $     $     $     $   15,342,720  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Small and medium capitalization risk: Small or medium capitalization companies may be more at risk than large capitalization companies because, among other things, they may have limited product lines, operating history, market or financial resources, or because they may depend on a limited management group. The prices of securities of small and medium capitalization companies generally are more volatile than those of large capitalization companies and are more likely to be adversely affected than large capitalization companies by changes in earnings results and investor expectations or poor economic or market conditions. Securities of small and medium capitalization companies may underperform large capitalization companies, may be harder to sell at times and at prices the portfolio managers believe appropriate and may offer greater potential for losses.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $350 Million

     0.790

Over $350 Million up to $500 Million

     0.780  

Over $500 Million up to $750 Million

     0.765  

Over $750 Million up to $1 Billion

     0.755  

Over $1 Billion up to $1.5 Billion

     0.735  

Over $1.5 Billion up to $2 Billion

     0.730  

Over $2 Billion

     0.725  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.89    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.14      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  182,842,730   $  —     $  207,155,820   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)

$  503,476,292

  $  96,464,350   $  (17,016,928)   $  79,447,422

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS — CONTRACT RENEWAL

(unaudited)

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreements (each a “Sub-Advisory Agreement,” collectively the “Sub-Advisory Agreements” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and each of Systematic Financial Management, L.P. (“Systematic”) and Thompson, Siegel & Walmsley LLC (“TS&W”) (each a “Sub-Adviser” and collectively the “Sub-Advisers”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and each Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and each Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and each Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and each Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or any Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of each of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and each Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and each Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of each Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for each Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

(ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and each Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods and in line with the median for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that Systematic had previously served as the Portfolio’s sole sub-adviser, beginning on March 22, 2011, pursuant to different investment strategies. The Board also noted that TS&W had commenced subadvising the Portfolio’s mid-cap sleeve and Systematic had continued subadvising the Portfolio’s small-cap sleeve pursuant to the Portfolio’s current investment strategies on December 4, 2016.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Advisers for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fees and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the median for its peer group and above the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Advisers under the Management Agreement and each Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica Small/Mid Cap Value VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

(unaudited)

 

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Advisers, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fees are the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the applicable Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and are paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or a Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered each Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fees paid to the Sub-Advisers in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Advisers from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Advisers from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Advisers is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Advisers participate in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Advisers may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Advisers. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of each Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

    $  1,000.00       $  1,076.30       $  4.17       $  1,020.80       $  4.06       0.81

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,075.20       5.45       1,019.50       5.31       1.06  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     98.9

Securities Lending Collateral

     3.6  

Repurchase Agreement

     1.4  

Contingent Value Right

     0.0

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (3.9

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
*

Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 98.9%  
Aerospace & Defense - 4.2%  

Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. (A)

    131,300        $  3,872,037  

BWX Technologies, Inc.

    79,300        4,941,976  

Curtiss-Wright Corp.

    40,900        4,867,918  

HEICO Corp., Class A

    126,665        7,720,232  

Hexcel Corp.

    65,200        4,327,976  

Moog, Inc., Class A

    54,000        4,209,840  

Teledyne Technologies, Inc. (A)

    41,400        8,241,084  
    

 

 

 
       38,181,063  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.6%  

XPO Logistics, Inc. (A)

    55,900        5,600,062  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.1%  

Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.

    26,600        956,270  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 1.1%  

Cooper-Standard Holdings, Inc. (A)

    23,000        3,005,410  

LCI Industries

    26,400        2,379,960  

Tenneco, Inc.

    23,300        1,024,268  

Visteon Corp. (A)

    28,000        3,618,720  
    

 

 

 
       10,028,358  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 2.3%  

Ameris Bancorp

    67,600        3,606,460  

Carolina Financial Corp.

    49,185        2,111,020  

CenterState Bank Corp.

    128,300        3,825,906  

First BanCorp

    84,400        3,452,804  

Hilltop Holdings, Inc.

    64,100        1,414,687  

Signature Bank (A)

    16,600        2,122,808  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    13,600        3,927,136  
    

 

 

 
       20,460,821  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 0.5%  

Boston Beer Co., Inc., Class A (A)

    11,300        3,386,610  

Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated

    11,200        1,513,456  
    

 

 

 
       4,900,066  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 8.5%  

Abeona Therapeutics, Inc. (A) (B)

    22,850        365,600  

ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    41,100        627,597  

Acceleron Pharma, Inc. (A)

    23,700        1,149,924  

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. (A)

    27,000        774,900  

Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A) (B)

    39,661        3,340,646  

Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc. (A)

    33,183        892,291  

Alkermes PLC (A)

    27,300        1,123,668  

Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    5,400        531,846  

AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    40,700        793,650  

Amicus Therapeutics, Inc. (A) (B)

    118,400        1,849,408  

Array BioPharma, Inc. (A)

    134,600        2,258,588  

Bluebird Bio, Inc. (A)

    21,600        3,390,120  

Blueprint Medicines Corp. (A)

    32,125        2,039,295  

Clovis Oncology, Inc. (A)

    26,600        1,209,502  

CRISPR Therapeutics AG (A)

    17,300        1,016,548  

Emergent BioSolutions, Inc. (A)

    51,900        2,620,431  

Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    2,887        334,603  

Exact Sciences Corp. (A)

    105,500        6,307,845  

Exelixis, Inc. (A)

    48,600        1,045,872  

FibroGen, Inc. (A)

    46,300        2,898,380  

Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc. (A) (B)

    26,099        1,179,675  

GlycoMimetics, Inc. (A) (B)

    36,800        593,584  

Immunomedics, Inc. (A)

    44,232        1,046,971  

Incyte Corp. (A)

    14,300        958,100  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Biotechnology (continued)  

Insmed, Inc. (A)

    84,200        $   1,991,330  

Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A) (B)

    20,600        858,402  

Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    77,400        1,479,888  

Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    24,700        5,117,099  

Loxo Oncology, Inc. (A)

    16,600        2,879,768  

Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    2,400        671,256  

Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. (A)

    43,886        4,311,361  

Radius Health, Inc. (A) (B)

    15,500        456,785  

Repligen Corp. (A)

    40,200        1,891,008  

Sage Therapeutics, Inc. (A)

    30,400        4,758,512  

Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. (A) (B)

    45,400        6,000,972  

Seattle Genetics, Inc. (A)

    22,900        1,520,331  

Spark Therapeutics, Inc. (A) (B)

    27,800        2,300,728  

TESARO, Inc. (A) (B)

    21,300        947,211  

Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc. (A)

    29,768        2,288,266  

Xencor, Inc. (A)

    46,100        1,706,161  
    

 

 

 
       77,528,122  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 1.2%  

AAON, Inc.

    26,450        879,463  

JELD-WEN Holding, Inc. (A)

    43,900        1,255,101  

Lennox International, Inc.

    24,200        4,843,630  

Patrick Industries, Inc. (A)

    61,350        3,487,747  
    

 

 

 
       10,465,941  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.4%  

Cboe Global Markets, Inc.

    51,300        5,338,791  

E*TRADE Financial Corp. (A)

    48,760        2,982,162  

FactSet Research Systems, Inc.

    6,450        1,277,745  

Financial Engines, Inc.

    31,300        1,405,370  

MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.

    27,600        5,460,936  

MSCI, Inc.

    34,888        5,771,522  
    

 

 

 
       22,236,526  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 3.0%  

AdvanSix, Inc. (A)

    58,400        2,139,192  

Chase Corp.

    29,700        3,482,325  

GCP Applied Technologies, Inc. (A)

    48,200        1,395,390  

Ingevity Corp. (A)

    59,800        4,835,428  

Innospec, Inc.

    38,900        2,977,795  

Minerals Technologies, Inc.

    30,400        2,290,640  

NewMarket Corp.

    5,900        2,386,550  

PolyOne Corp.

    80,000        3,457,600  

Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. (B)

    38,100        3,168,396  

Stepan Co.

    17,700        1,380,777  
    

 

 

 
       27,514,093  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 1.8%  

Advanced Disposal Services, Inc. (A)

    74,719        1,851,537  

Casella Waste Systems, Inc., Class A (A)

    163,900        4,197,479  

Healthcare Services Group, Inc. (B)

    63,900        2,759,841  

Rollins, Inc.

    95,525        5,022,704  

US Ecology, Inc.

    38,300        2,439,710  
    

 

 

 
       16,271,271  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 0.9%  

ARRIS International PLC (A)

    75,000        1,833,375  

EchoStar Corp., Class A (A)

    32,200        1,429,680  

NetScout Systems, Inc. (A)

    47,300        1,404,810  

Plantronics, Inc.

    40,300        3,072,875  
    

 

 

 
       7,740,740  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Construction & Engineering - 0.1%  

Valmont Industries, Inc.

    4,100        $   618,075  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.3%  

Eagle Materials, Inc.

    29,800        3,128,106  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.4%  

PRA Group, Inc. (A)

    48,900        1,885,095  

SLM Corp. (A)

    135,200        1,548,040  
    

 

 

 
       3,433,135  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.9%  

Berry Global Group, Inc. (A)

    108,400        4,979,896  

Graphic Packaging Holding Co.

    211,700        3,071,767  
    

 

 

 
       8,051,663  
    

 

 

 
Distributors - 0.7%  

Pool Corp.

    43,400        6,575,100  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 2.3%  

Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc. (A)

    54,572        5,594,721  

Capella Education Co.

    30,000        2,961,000  

Service Corp. International

    145,600        5,211,024  

ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc. (A)

    98,157        5,837,397  

Sotheby’s (A)

    31,500        1,711,710  
    

 

 

 
       21,315,852  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.5%  

Atkore International Group, Inc. (A)

    93,253        1,936,865  

AZZ, Inc.

    16,900        734,305  

Generac Holdings, Inc. (A)

    27,100        1,401,883  
    

 

 

 
       4,073,053  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 3.0%  

Cognex Corp.

    79,800        3,559,878  

Coherent, Inc. (A)

    28,900        4,520,538  

Littelfuse, Inc.

    23,400        5,339,412  

Novanta, Inc. (A)

    68,900        4,292,470  

OSI Systems, Inc. (A)

    24,200        1,871,386  

Tech Data Corp. (A)

    16,600        1,363,192  

Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A (A)

    45,300        6,489,225  
    

 

 

 
       27,436,101  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.8%  

Apergy Corp. (A)

    50,100        2,091,675  

Computer Modelling Group, Ltd.

    21,300        163,641  

Dril-Quip, Inc. (A)

    19,000        976,600  

Exterran Corp. (A)

    59,600        1,492,384  

Oceaneering International, Inc.

    42,000        1,069,320  

RPC, Inc.

    80,900        1,178,713  
    

 

 

 
       6,972,333  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 3.4%  

CoreSite Realty Corp.

    42,100        4,665,522  

CubeSmart

    78,500        2,529,270  

CyrusOne, Inc.

    74,400        4,341,984  

DCT Industrial Trust, Inc.

    35,500        2,368,915  

Empire State Realty Trust, Inc., Class A

    84,000        1,436,400  

Equity Lifestyle Properties, Inc.

    40,900        3,758,710  

First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.

    117,100        3,904,114  

Forest City Realty Trust, Inc., Class A

    83,300        1,900,073  

Pebblebrook Hotel Trust

    33,600        1,303,680  

PS Business Parks, Inc.

    16,900        2,171,650  

Terreno Realty Corp.

    69,700        2,625,599  
    

 

 

 
       31,005,917  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.0%  

Casey’s General Stores, Inc.

    45,300        $   4,760,124  

Performance Food Group Co. (A)

    128,300        4,708,610  
    

 

 

 
       9,468,734  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.2%  

J&J Snack Foods Corp.

    27,600        4,208,172  

John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

    19,600        1,459,220  

Post Holdings, Inc. (A)

    41,600        3,578,432  

TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (A)

    33,500        1,759,085  
    

 

 

 
       11,004,909  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 5.1%  

Align Technology, Inc. (A)

    8,200        2,805,548  

Avanos Medical, Inc. (A)

    35,400        2,026,650  

Cantel Medical Corp.

    46,200        4,544,232  

Cooper Cos., Inc.

    11,400        2,684,130  

DexCom, Inc. (A)

    16,900        1,605,162  

Glaukos Corp. (A) (B)

    13,900        564,896  

Globus Medical, Inc., Class A (A)

    39,500        1,993,170  

ICU Medical, Inc. (A)

    22,300        6,548,395  

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (A)

    17,100        3,726,774  

Inogen, Inc. (A)

    31,400        5,850,762  

Masimo Corp. (A)

    36,300        3,544,695  

Natus Medical, Inc. (A)

    25,800        890,100  

NuVasive, Inc. (A)

    51,300        2,673,756  

Penumbra, Inc. (A)

    23,000        3,177,450  

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

    39,800        3,951,742  
    

 

 

 
       46,587,462  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 3.2%  

BioTelemetry, Inc. (A)

    41,200        1,854,000  

Centene Corp. (A)

    25,567        3,150,110  

Chemed Corp.

    18,000        5,792,580  

CorVel Corp. (A)

    20,800        1,123,200  

Encompass Health Corp.

    38,900        2,634,308  

Molina Healthcare, Inc. (A)

    56,200        5,504,228  

US Physical Therapy, Inc.

    31,900        3,062,400  

WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (A)

    23,700        5,835,888  
    

 

 

 
       28,956,714  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 0.8%  

Omnicell, Inc. (A)

    59,100        3,099,795  

Tabula Rasa HealthCare, Inc. (A)

    12,600        804,258  

Veeva Systems, Inc., Class A (A)

    48,800        3,750,768  
    

 

 

 
       7,654,821  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 5.2%  

Brinker International, Inc. (B)

    4,400        209,440  

Cheesecake Factory, Inc. (B)

    37,400        2,059,244  

Choice Hotels International, Inc.

    25,200        1,905,120  

Churchill Downs, Inc.

    22,400        6,641,600  

Denny’s Corp. (A)

    189,100        3,012,363  

Domino’s Pizza, Inc.

    19,341        5,457,450  

Hilton Grand Vacations, Inc. (A)

    84,800        2,942,560  

Jack in the Box, Inc.

    19,000        1,617,280  

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp.

    12,900        1,457,184  

Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc. (A)

    151,800        5,120,214  

Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc.

    91,800        2,574,990  

Six Flags Entertainment Corp. (B)

    35,600        2,493,780  

Texas Roadhouse, Inc.

    62,100        4,068,171  

Vail Resorts, Inc.

    29,500        8,088,605  
    

 

 

 
       47,648,001  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Household Durables - 0.4%  

Helen of Troy, Ltd. (A)

    37,600        $   3,701,720  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.2%  

Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. (B)

    20,200        1,648,724  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.3%  

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

    57,200        3,042,468  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 0.6%  

Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc. (B)

    31,700        528,439  

Primerica, Inc.

    50,600        5,039,760  
    

 

 

 
       5,568,199  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.5%  

Liberty Expedia Holdings, Inc., Class A (A)

    50,060        2,199,636  

Shutterfly, Inc. (A)

    25,700        2,313,771  
    

 

 

 
       4,513,407  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 2.0%  

Envestnet, Inc. (A)

    68,500        3,764,075  

GTT Communications, Inc. (A) (B)

    40,100        1,804,500  

j2 Global, Inc.

    30,900        2,676,249  

LogMeIn, Inc.

    19,500        2,013,375  

MercadoLibre, Inc.

    6,100        1,823,473  

Stamps.com, Inc. (A)

    23,900        6,047,895  
    

 

 

 
       18,129,567  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 4.9%  

Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp.

    126,800        5,544,964  

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.

    54,800        6,307,480  

Cardtronics PLC, Class A (A)

    67,700        1,636,986  

CoreLogic, Inc. (A)

    84,100        4,364,790  

Euronet Worldwide, Inc. (A)

    48,000        4,020,960  

Gartner, Inc. (A)

    22,930        3,047,397  

Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.

    22,200        2,893,992  

MAXIMUS, Inc.

    84,400        5,242,084  

Science Applications International Corp.

    30,300        2,452,179  

Syntel, Inc. (A)

    44,600        1,431,214  

Travelport Worldwide, Ltd.

    89,700        1,663,038  

WEX, Inc. (A)

    32,700        6,228,696  
    

 

 

 
       44,833,780  
    

 

 

 
Leisure Products - 0.5%  

Brunswick Corp.

    66,600        4,294,368  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 2.0%  

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., Class A (A)

    12,500        3,606,750  

Bruker Corp.

    37,200        1,080,288  

Cambrex Corp. (A)

    52,500        2,745,750  

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (A)

    42,000        4,714,920  

PRA Health Sciences, Inc. (A)

    51,400        4,798,704  

Syneos Health, Inc. (A)

    34,000        1,594,600  
    

 

 

 
       18,541,012  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 3.9%  

Chart Industries, Inc. (A)

    19,200        1,184,256  

Douglas Dynamics, Inc.

    53,300        2,558,400  

Graco, Inc.

    94,400        4,268,768  

IDEX Corp.

    16,200        2,210,976  

John Bean Technologies Corp.

    46,400        4,124,960  

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.

    22,000        1,930,720  

Lydall, Inc. (A)

    58,600        2,557,890  

Middleby Corp. (A)

    18,000        1,879,560  

Nordson Corp.

    24,000        3,081,840  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Machinery (continued)  

Standex International Corp.

    11,100        $   1,134,420  

Toro Co.

    93,100        5,609,275  

Welbilt, Inc. (A)

    58,900        1,314,059  

Woodward, Inc.

    42,000        3,228,120  
    

 

 

 
       35,083,244  
    

 

 

 
Marine - 0.1%  

Matson, Inc.

    19,400        744,572  
    

 

 

 
Media - 2.2%  

Cable One, Inc.

    7,300        5,353,017  

GCI Liberty, Inc., Class A (A)

    71,640        3,229,531  

Gray Television, Inc. (A)

    109,900        1,736,420  

Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., Class B

    93,596        2,195,762  

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (A)

    107,800        5,235,846  

MSG Networks, Inc., Class A (A)

    107,100        2,565,045  
    

 

 

 
       20,315,621  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.2%  

Worthington Industries, Inc.

    36,800        1,544,496  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.2%  

Big Lots, Inc. (B)

    38,300        1,600,174  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.6%  

Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc. (A)

    31,400        874,490  

Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    29,800        3,920,786  

Matador Resources Co. (A)

    157,200        4,723,860  

PDC Energy, Inc. (A)

    48,200        2,913,690  

RSP Permian, Inc. (A)

    92,500        4,071,850  

WPX Energy, Inc. (A)

    374,000        6,743,220  
    

 

 

 
       23,247,896  
    

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products - 0.2%  

KapStone Paper and Packaging Corp.

    58,400        2,014,800  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 0.2%  

Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc., Class A

    22,200        1,735,818  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 2.6%  

Aerie Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A) (B)

    29,600        1,999,480  

Catalent, Inc. (A)

    95,637        4,006,234  

Depomed, Inc. (A)

    102,000        680,340  

Innoviva, Inc. (A)

    34,600        477,480  

Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC (A)

    7,800        1,343,940  

MyoKardia, Inc. (A)

    22,965        1,140,212  

Nektar Therapeutics (A)

    40,000        1,953,200  

Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    18,800        602,540  

Phibro Animal Health Corp., Class A

    46,900        2,159,745  

Prestige Brands Holdings, Inc. (A)

    78,000        2,993,640  

Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    64,500        3,860,325  

TherapeuticsMD, Inc. (A) (B)

    179,600        1,120,704  

Theravance Biopharma, Inc. (A) (B)

    46,284        1,049,721  

WaVe Life Sciences, Ltd. (A)

    10,052        384,489  
    

 

 

 
       23,772,050  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 2.6%  

ASGN, Inc. (A)

    59,000        4,613,210  

CoStar Group, Inc. (A)

    7,300        3,012,199  

Dun & Bradstreet Corp.

    17,700        2,170,905  

Exponent, Inc.

    90,800        4,385,640  

Insperity, Inc.

    40,700        3,876,675  

TransUnion

    76,724        5,496,507  
    

 

 

 
       23,555,136  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.1%  

Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc.

    48,400        $   1,023,660  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 0.9%  

Landstar System, Inc.

    31,300        3,417,960  

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

    33,798        5,034,550  
    

 

 

 
       8,452,510  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 3.5%  

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. (A)

    46,900        2,724,421  

Cabot Microelectronics Corp.

    20,800        2,237,248  

Cavium, Inc. (A)

    36,400        3,148,600  

Cirrus Logic, Inc. (A)

    72,600        2,782,758  

Ichor Holdings, Ltd. (A) (B)

    38,100        808,482  

Integrated Device Technology, Inc. (A)

    119,900        3,822,412  

MaxLinear, Inc. (A)

    146,500        2,283,935  

Mellanox Technologies, Ltd. (A)

    49,300        4,155,990  

MKS Instruments, Inc.

    51,300        4,909,410  

Nanometrics, Inc. (A)

    45,300        1,604,073  

Versum Materials, Inc.

    101,900        3,785,585  
    

 

 

 
       32,262,914  
    

 

 

 
Software - 8.6%  

ACI Worldwide, Inc. (A)

    84,100        2,074,747  

Aspen Technology, Inc. (A)

    62,300        5,777,702  

Blackbaud, Inc.

    55,700        5,706,465  

CommVault Systems, Inc. (A)

    49,000        3,226,650  

Descartes Systems Group, Inc. (A)

    53,500        1,738,750  

Ellie Mae, Inc. (A) (B)

    22,800        2,367,552  

Fair Isaac Corp. (A)

    40,000        7,732,800  

Fortinet, Inc. (A)

    50,000        3,121,500  

Manhattan Associates, Inc. (A)

    58,300        2,740,683  

Pegasystems, Inc.

    69,700        3,819,560  

Proofpoint, Inc. (A)

    36,800        4,243,408  

PTC, Inc. (A)

    48,600        4,559,166  

Qualys, Inc. (A)

    50,700        4,274,010  

RealPage, Inc. (A)

    77,989        4,297,194  

SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.

    107,600        5,584,440  

Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (A)

    64,900        7,681,564  

Tyler Technologies, Inc. (A)

    25,400        5,641,340  

Ultimate Software Group, Inc. (A)

    15,600        4,014,036  
    

 

 

 
       78,601,567  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.6%  

Aaron’s, Inc.

    18,450        801,653  

Burlington Stores, Inc. (A)

    57,000        8,580,210  

Children’s Place, Inc.

    12,100        1,461,680  

Murphy USA, Inc. (A)

    43,900        3,261,331  

Sally Beauty Holdings, Inc. (A) (B)

    25,100        402,353  
    

 

 

 
       14,507,227  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.3%  

NCR Corp. (A)

    76,200          2,284,476  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 0.9%  

Carter’s, Inc.

    39,800        4,313,922  

Steven Madden, Ltd.

    80,100        4,253,310  
    

 

 

 
       8,567,232  
    

 

 

 
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance - 0.4%  

MGIC Investment Corp. (A)

    202,000        2,165,440  

Radian Group, Inc.

    105,100        1,704,722  
    

 

 

 
       3,870,162  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.9%  

Beacon Roofing Supply, Inc. (A)

    45,000        $   1,917,900  

Univar, Inc. (A)

    91,700        2,406,208  

Watsco, Inc.

    20,500        3,654,740  
    

 

 

 
       7,978,848  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $657,321,995)

 

     901,248,957  
    

 

 

 
CONTINGENT VALUE RIGHT - 0.0% (C)  
Biotechnology - 0.0% (C)  

Dyax Corp., CVR (A) (D) (E) (F) (G)

    64,300        253,985  
    

 

 

 

Total Contingent Value Right
(Cost $71,373)

 

     253,985  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 3.6%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (H)

    33,260,697        33,260,697  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $33,260,697)

 

     33,260,697  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.4%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (H), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $12,308,329 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $12,553,757.

    $  12,307,406        12,307,406  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $12,307,406)

 

     12,307,406  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $702,961,471)

 

     947,071,045  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (3.9)%

 

     (35,885,655
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  911,185,390  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (I)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs 
(J)
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 901,248,957     $     $     $ 901,248,957  

Contingent Value Right

                253,985       253,985  

Securities Lending Collateral

    33,260,697                   33,260,697  

Repurchase Agreement

          12,307,406             12,307,406  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $   934,509,654     $   12,307,406     $   253,985     $   947,071,045  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $32,511,328. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(D)    Fair valued as determined in good faith in accordance with procedures established by the Board. At June 30, 2018, the value of the security is $253,985, representing less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(E)    Illiquid security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such securities amounted to $253,985 or less than 0.1% of the Portfolio’s net assets.
(F)    Restricted security. At June 30, 2018, the value of such security held by the Portfolio is as follows:

 

Investments    Description   
Acquisition
Date
     Acquisition
Cost
       Value        Value as Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Contingent Value Right

  

Dyax Corp.

     01/25/2016      $   71,373        $   253,985          0.0 %(C) 

 

(G)    Security is Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
(H)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(I)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(J)    Level 3 securities were not considered significant to the Portfolio.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

CVR    Contingent Value Right

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $690,654,065)
(including securities loaned of $32,511,328)

  $   934,763,639  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $12,307,406)

    12,307,406  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $1,388)

    1,377  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    109,644  

Investments sold

    3,175,776  

Interest

    308  

Dividends

    420,322  

Net income from securities lending

    8,874  

Prepaid expenses

    3,050  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    950,790,396  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    2,365,677  

Investments purchased

    3,223,457  

Investment management fees

    600,602  

Distribution and service fees

    61,393  

Transfer agent costs

    1,551  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,669  

Audit and tax fees

    15,288  

Custody fees

    7,388  

Legal fees

    8,186  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    48,900  

Other

    9,198  

Collateral for securities on loan

    33,260,697  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    39,605,006  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 911,185,390  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 553,514  

Additional paid-in capital

    558,514,818  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    (1,516,326

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    109,523,821  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    244,109,574  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (11
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 911,185,390  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 606,649,348  

Service Class

    304,536,042  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    36,158,969  

Service Class

    19,192,445  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 16.78  

Service Class

    15.87  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 2,362,341  

Interest income

    28,852  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    66,372  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (3,110
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    2,454,455  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    3,462,247  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    368,496  

Transfer agent costs

    6,173  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    13,796  

Audit and tax fees

    15,220  

Custody fees

    42,821  

Legal fees

    25,445  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    25,471  

Other

    11,112  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    3,970,781  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    (1,516,326
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    58,437,527  

Foreign currency transactions

    12  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    58,437,539  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    9,380,187  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (42
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    9,380,145  
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    67,817,684  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   66,301,358  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ (1,516,326   $ (2,334,489

Net realized gain (loss)

    58,437,539       54,204,353  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    9,380,145       112,281,020  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    66,301,358       164,150,884  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (32,826,220

Service Class

          (16,643,305
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (49,469,525
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    19,513,171       37,264,330  

Service Class

    6,711,058       30,948,540  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    26,224,229       68,212,870  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          32,826,220  

Service Class

          16,643,305  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          49,469,525  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (48,373,641     (83,783,694

Service Class

    (16,597,612     (17,795,690
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (64,971,253       (101,579,384
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (38,747,024     16,103,011  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    27,554,334       130,784,370  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    883,631,056       752,846,686  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   911,185,390     $ 883,631,056  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ (1,516,326   $  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    1,203,503       2,577,959  

Service Class

    432,475       2,254,964  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,635,978       4,832,923  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          2,382,164  

Service Class

          1,274,372  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          3,656,536  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (2,941,793     (5,701,170

Service Class

    (1,086,621     (1,270,753
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (4,028,414     (6,971,923
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (1,738,290     (741,047

Service Class

    (654,146     2,258,583  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (2,392,436     1,517,536  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 15.59     $ 13.59     $ 13.85     $ 14.68     $ 14.24     $ 10.31  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    (0.02     (0.03     (0.01 )(B)      (0.02     (0.01     (0.02

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    1.21       2.95       1.49       0.37       0.92       4.49  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    1.19       2.92       1.48       0.35       0.91       4.47  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

                                  (0.01

Net realized gains

          (0.92     (1.74     (1.18     (0.47     (0.53
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.92     (1.74     (1.18     (0.47     (0.54
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 16.78     $ 15.59     $ 13.59     $ 13.85     $ 14.68     $ 14.24  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    7.63 %(D)      22.39     11.22     2.43     6.55     44.07
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   606,649     $   590,699     $   525,140     $   409,596     $   438,253     $   459,083  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.81 %(E)      0.81     0.82     0.81     0.82     0.82

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.81 %(E)      0.81     0.81 %(B)      0.81     0.82     0.82

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    (0.26 )%(E)      (0.21 )%      (0.05 )%(B)      (0.14 )%      (0.09 )%      (0.13 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    11 %(D)      21     38     27     21     17

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 14.76     $ 12.95     $ 13.30     $ 14.18     $ 13.81     $ 10.03  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    (0.04     (0.06     (0.04 )(B)      (0.06     (0.05     (0.05

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    1.15       2.79       1.43       0.36       0.89       4.36  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    1.11       2.73       1.39       0.30       0.84       4.31  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net realized gains

          (0.92     (1.74     (1.18     (0.47     (0.53
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 15.87     $ 14.76     $ 12.95     $ 13.30     $ 14.18     $ 13.81  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    7.52 %(D)      22.02     11.00     2.16     6.24     43.70
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   304,536     $   292,932     $   227,707     $   198,477     $   172,344     $   141,815  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.06 %(E)      1.06     1.07     1.06     1.07     1.07

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.06 %(E)      1.06     1.06 %(B)      1.06     1.07     1.07

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    (0.51 )%(E)      (0.46 )%      (0.29 )%(B)      (0.40 )%      (0.34 )%      (0.39 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    11 %(D)      21     38     27     21     17

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $1,069.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION

 

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Contingent value rights (“CVR”): CVRs for which quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee under the supervision of the Board. CVRs are normally valued using a model that incorporates market observable data such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data relating to the issuer. Depending on the relative significance of observable valuation inputs, these investments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Contingent value rights: The Trust may invest in CVRs, which is a type of right given to investors of an acquired company (or a company facing major restructuring) that ensures additional benefit if a specified event occurs. A CVR often has an expiration date that relates to the time the contingent event must occur. CVRs generally lack liquidity since most are non-transferable and a large number of legal and other issues can arise when negotiating and implementing these instruments.

CVRs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

Restricted and illiquid securities: The Portfolio may invest in unregulated restricted securities. Restricted and illiquid securities are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or are illiquid. Restricted securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. A security may be considered illiquid if it lacks a readily available market or if its valuation has not changed for a certain period of time. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at the current valuation may be difficult.

Restricted and illiquid securities held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

 

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Common Stocks

  $ 33,260,697     $     $     $     $ 33,260,697  

Total Borrowings

  $   33,260,697     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   33,260,697  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Small and medium capitalization risk: Small or medium capitalization companies may be more at risk than large capitalization companies because, among other things, they may have limited product lines, operating history, market or financial resources, or because they may depend on a limited management group. The prices of securities of small and medium capitalization companies generally are more volatile than those of large capitalization companies and are more likely to be adversely affected than large capitalization companies by changes in earnings results and investor expectations or poor economic or market conditions. Securities of small and medium capitalization companies may underperform large capitalization companies, may be harder to sell at times and at prices the portfolio managers believe appropriate and may offer greater potential for losses.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.78% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

 

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Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.93      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.18        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)
$  —   $  90,532   $  (53,000)

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government         Long-Term    U.S. Government
$  101,114,174   $  —      $  134,330,876    $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities for the three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  702,961,471   $  267,647,134   $  (23,537,560)   $  244,109,574

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

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MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods and below the median for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were in line with the medians for its peer group and below the medians for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    19


Transamerica T. Rowe Price Small Cap VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser no longer participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    20


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,029.30     $   3.67     $   1,021.20     $   3.66       0.73

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,027.80       4.93       1,019.90       4.91       0.98  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     97.8

Repurchase Agreement

     1.3  

Securities Lending Collateral

     0.5  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     0.4  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 97.8%  
Aerospace & Defense - 3.5%  

United Technologies Corp.

    62,328        $  7,792,870  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 3.8%  

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc. (A)

    90,111        8,488,456  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 6.8%  

BlackRock, Inc.

    12,567        6,271,435  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    172,128        8,795,741  
    

 

 

 
       15,067,176  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 6.1%  

Albemarle Corp. (B)

    58,421        5,510,853  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    19,505        7,949,653  
    

 

 

 
       13,460,506  
    

 

 

 
Distributors - 3.6%  

LKQ Corp. (A)

    250,809        8,000,807  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 3.0%  

Amphenol Corp., Class A

    75,082        6,543,396  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 3.9%  

American Tower Corp.

    60,028        8,654,237  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 7.8%  

Cooper Cos., Inc.

    38,706        9,113,328  

Danaher Corp.

    81,649        8,057,123  
    

 

 

 
       17,170,451  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 3.3%  

Centene Corp. (A)

    58,361        7,190,659  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 3.1%  

Cerner Corp. (A)

    113,429        6,781,920  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 6.6%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    6,829        7,711,238  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    35,255        6,850,752  
    

 

 

 
       14,561,990  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 11.0%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    42,001        6,870,944  

Fiserv, Inc. (A)

    116,861        8,658,231  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    67,348        8,920,243  
    

 

 

 
       24,449,418  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 3.4%  

Lonza Group AG, ADR (B)

    287,444        7,595,708  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 5.3%  

Enbridge, Inc.

    166,093        5,927,859  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    46,208        5,749,662  
    

 

 

 
       11,677,521  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Pharmaceuticals - 2.5%  

Roche Holding AG, ADR

    202,861        $   5,605,049  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 3.8%  

Verisk Analytics, Inc. (A)

    78,656        8,466,532  
    

 

 

 
Software - 9.4%  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    32,281        7,870,431  

Check Point Software Technologies, Ltd. (A)

    50,612        4,943,780  

Microsoft Corp.

    82,160        8,101,797  
    

 

 

 
       20,916,008  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 4.0%  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (A)

    32,020        8,759,711  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 4.1%  

Apple, Inc.

    49,460          9,155,541  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 2.8%  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    78,566        6,260,139  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $155,069,590)

 

     216,598,095  
    

 

 

 
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.5%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    1,105,405        1,105,405  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $1,105,405)

 

     1,105,405  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 1.3%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $2,771,010 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $2,829,513.

    $  2,770,802        2,770,802  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $2,770,802)

 

     2,770,802  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $158,945,797)

 

     220,474,302  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 0.4%

       909,104  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  221,383,406  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 216,598,095     $     $     $ 216,598,095  

Securities Lending Collateral

    1,105,405                   1,105,405  

Repurchase Agreement

          2,770,802             2,770,802  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 217,703,500     $ 2,770,802     $     $ 220,474,302  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $1,083,303. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATION:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Investments, at value (cost $156,174,995)
(including securities loaned of $1,083,303)

   $ 217,703,500  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $2,770,802)

     2,770,802  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $8,070)

     8,259  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Investments sold

     1,923,752  

Interest

     69  

Dividends

     112,828  

Tax reclaims

     157,171  

Net income from securities lending

     1,513  

Prepaid expenses

     796  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     222,678,690  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     24,252  

Investment management fees

     122,282  

Distribution and service fees

     8,484  

Transfer agent costs

     467  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     873  

Audit and tax fees

     10,190  

Custody fees

     4,369  

Legal fees

     2,459  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     13,755  

Other

     2,748  

Collateral for securities on loan

     1,105,405  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     1,295,284  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $   221,383,406  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 98,204  

Additional paid-in capital

     138,382,584  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     722,289  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     20,651,635  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     61,528,505  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

     189  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 221,383,406  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $ 179,708,313  

Service Class

     41,675,093  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     8,004,704  

Service Class

     1,815,729  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 22.45  

Service Class

     22.95  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income

   $ 1,241,878  

Interest income

     21,742  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     26,402  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

     (62,119
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     1,227,903  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     768,178  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     54,130  

Transfer agent costs

     1,644  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     3,605  

Audit and tax fees

     9,983  

Custody fees

     20,342  

Legal fees

     6,777  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     7,336  

Other

     3,082  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

     875,077  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     352,826  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Investments

     10,146,832  

Foreign currency transactions

     (3,185
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

       10,143,647  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     (4,031,681

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

     (134
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (4,031,815
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     6,111,832  
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $ 6,464,658  
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 352,826     $ 445,485  

Net realized gain (loss)

    10,143,647       10,746,393  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (4,031,815     37,637,592  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    6,464,658       48,829,470  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (694,755

Service Class

          (60,600
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (755,355
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (3,219,617

Service Class

          (699,860
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (3,919,477
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (4,674,832
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    1,619,577       3,646,192  

Service Class

    782,718       7,209,367  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    2,402,295       10,855,559  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          3,914,372  

Service Class

          760,460  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          4,674,832  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (16,575,168     (23,444,069

Service Class

    (5,681,889     (7,280,361
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (22,257,057     (30,724,430
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (19,854,762     (15,194,039
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (13,390,104     28,960,599  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    234,773,510       205,812,911  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   221,383,406     $   234,773,510  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 722,289     $ 369,463  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    73,271       181,628  

Service Class

    34,523       350,868  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    107,794       532,496  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          197,496  

Service Class

          37,443  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          234,939  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (751,521     (1,161,880

Service Class

    (251,027     (352,017
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (1,002,548     (1,513,897
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (678,250     (782,756

Service Class

    (216,504     36,294  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (894,754     (746,462
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 21.81     $ 17.88     $ 16.83     $ 21.45     $ 23.04     $ 17.48  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.04       0.05       0.06 (B)       0.08       0.11       0.17  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.60       4.33       1.07       (0.42     2.05       5.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.64       4.38       1.13       (0.34     2.16       5.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.08     (0.08     (0.12     (0.21     (0.20

Net realized gains

          (0.37           (4.16     (3.54      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.45     (0.08     (4.28     (3.75     (0.20
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 22.45     $ 21.81     $ 17.88     $ 16.83     $ 21.45     $ 23.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    2.93 %(D)      24.72     6.74     (1.57 )%      10.00     33.10
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   179,708     $   189,398     $   169,285     $   182,751     $   227,636     $   234,000  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.73 %(E)      0.72     0.72     0.72     0.73     0.78

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.73 %(E)      0.72     0.71 %(B)      0.72     0.73     0.78

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.36 %(E)      0.25     0.36 %(B)      0.42     0.49     0.86

Portfolio turnover rate

    10 %(D)      15     23     19     123     153 %(F) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Increase in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 22.33     $ 18.30     $ 17.21     $ 21.84     $ 23.40     $ 17.76  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.01       (0.00 )(B)      0.02 (C)       0.03       0.05       0.13  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.61       4.43       1.09       (0.43     2.09       5.67  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.62       4.43       1.11       (0.40     2.14       5.80  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.03     (0.02     (0.07     (0.16     (0.16

Net realized gains

          (0.37           (4.16     (3.54      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.40     (0.02     (4.23     (3.70     (0.16
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 22.95     $ 22.33     $ 18.30     $ 17.21     $ 21.84     $ 23.40  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    2.78 %(E)      24.41     6.48     (1.84 )%      9.75     32.81
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   41,675     $   45,376     $   36,528     $   37,107     $   47,996     $   43,649  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.98 %(F)      0.97     0.97     0.97     0.98     1.03

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.98 %(F)      0.97     0.96 %(C)      0.97     0.98     1.03

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.11 %(F)      (0.01 )%      0.11 %(C)      0.16     0.23     0.62

Portfolio turnover rate

    10 %(E)      15     23     19     123     153 %(G) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Rounds to less than $0.01 or $(0.01).
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Increase in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $389.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act.

By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Common Stocks

  $ 1,105,405     $     $     $     $ 1,105,405  

Total Borrowings

  $   1,105,405     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   1,105,405  
                                         

6. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Growth risk: Returns on growth stocks may not move in tandem with returns on other categories of stocks or the market as a whole. Growth stocks typically are particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect future expectations. When it appears those expectations may not be met, the prices of growth securities typically fall. Growth stocks as a group may be out of favor and underperform the overall equity market for a long period of time, for example, while the market favors “value” stocks.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $650 million

     0.680

Over $650 million up to $1.15 billion

     0.660  

Over $1.15 billion

     0.605  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through
 

Initial Class

     0.84      May 1, 2019  

Service Class

     1.09        May 1, 2019  

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  22,785,623   $  —     $  43,397,915   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities for the three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  158,945,797   $  65,531,114   $  (4,002,609)   $  61,528,505

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

 

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Torray LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmarks, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below the median for its peer universe and below its primary benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Trustees discussed the reasons for the underperformance with TAM and TAM agreed to continue to closely monitor and report to the Board on the performance of the Portfolio. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on May 1, 2014 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was in line with the median for its peer group and below the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica Torray Concentrated Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    17


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and assumed rates of return of 5% per year before expenses, which are not the Portfolio’s actual returns. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   973.70     $   4.45     $   1,020.30     $   4.56       0.91

Service Class

    1,000.00       972.70       5.67       1,019.00       5.81       1.16  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     96.4

Repurchase Agreement

     3.0  

Securities Lending Collateral

     2.0  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (1.4

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 96.4%  
Australia - 3.9%  

BHP Billiton PLC, ADR (A)

    21,800        $  979,910  

Challenger, Ltd.

    46,577        407,772  

Coca-Cola Amatil, Ltd.

    73,300        499,060  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    13,600        1,244,498  

Qantas Airways, Ltd.

    264,300        1,204,866  

Sonic Healthcare, Ltd.

    67,700        1,228,987  
    

 

 

 
       5,565,093  
    

 

 

 
Belgium - 1.9%  

Groupe Bruxelles Lambert SA

    12,500        1,318,446  

KBC Group NV

    18,700        1,443,920  
    

 

 

 
       2,762,366  
    

 

 

 
Brazil - 1.2%  

Embraer SA, ADR

    69,700        1,735,530  
    

 

 

 
Denmark - 0.8%  

AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B

    900        1,121,200  
    

 

 

 
France - 9.3%  

Airbus SE

    3,700        433,210  

Arkema SA

    10,293        1,218,845  

Engie SA

    144,100        2,209,516  

Peugeot SA

    17,300        395,170  

Publicis Groupe SA (A)

    17,900        1,232,059  

Rexel SA

    32,100        461,645  

Sanofi

    22,268        1,785,214  

TOTAL SA

    24,000        1,463,300  

Veolia Environnement SA

    87,500        1,873,005  

Vivendi SA

    90,600        2,221,856  
    

 

 

 
       13,293,820  
    

 

 

 
Germany - 12.2%  

Allianz SE

    6,541        1,352,181  

Bayer AG

    10,326        1,137,739  

CECONOMY AG

    87,200        726,878  

Deutsche Boerse AG

    13,800        1,839,600  

HeidelbergCement AG

    26,000        2,188,551  

Infineon Technologies AG

    86,700        2,210,249  

LANXESS AG

    13,700        1,068,724  

Merck KGaA

    15,700        1,533,128  

SAP SE

    16,000        1,848,861  

Siemens AG

    15,507        2,050,309  

Talanx AG (B)

    18,400        672,130  

TUI AG

    36,700        805,092  
    

 

 

 
       17,433,442  
    

 

 

 
Hong Kong - 4.5%  

China Mobile, Ltd.

    159,500        1,416,992  

CK Asset Holdings, Ltd.

    178,400        1,416,631  

CK Hutchison Holdings, Ltd.

    186,600        1,978,831  

First Pacific Co., Ltd.

    535,250        258,565  

Guangdong Investment, Ltd.

    808,200        1,283,544  
    

 

 

 
       6,354,563  
    

 

 

 
Ireland - 2.6%  

DCC PLC

    12,700        1,155,659  

Ryanair Holdings PLC, ADR

    5,485        626,552  

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC

    45,621        1,848,684  
    

 

 

 
       3,630,895  
    

 

 

 
Italy - 2.9%  

Azimut Holding SpA (A)

    45,388          702,569  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Italy (continued)  

Eni SpA

    90,896        $   1,688,396  

Mediobanca Banca di Credito Finanziario SpA

    103,300        960,486  

Prysmian SpA

    31,885        794,229  
    

 

 

 
       4,145,680  
    

 

 

 
Japan - 23.3%  

Astellas Pharma, Inc.

    144,800        2,208,980  

Bridgestone Corp.

    22,100        864,917  

Daiwa Securities Group, Inc.

    244,200        1,418,903  

Denka Co., Ltd.

    28,760        959,836  

FANUC Corp.

    6,400        1,272,023  

Fujitsu, Ltd.

    54,100        328,270  

Hitachi, Ltd.

    260,700        1,840,429  

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

    45,000        1,596,532  

JXTG Holdings, Inc.

    309,900        2,155,850  

Kuraray Co., Ltd.

    70,600        973,089  

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    26,140        951,726  

MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, Inc.

    56,500        1,757,540  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    27,200        1,237,224  

ORIX Corp.

    145,500        2,302,452  

Resona Holdings, Inc.

    197,100        1,054,974  

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.

    37,300        1,627,569  

SoftBank Group Corp.

    13,700        986,588  

Sony Corp.

    48,500        2,481,181  

Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.

    23,300        1,144,849  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    60,400        2,349,116  

Toshiba Corp. (B)

    740,500        2,227,219  

Toyota Industries Corp.

    26,900        1,508,820  
    

 

 

 
       33,248,087  
    

 

 

 
Luxembourg - 1.3%  

ArcelorMittal

    60,600        1,777,002  
    

 

 

 
Macau - 0.2%  

MGM China Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    143,359        332,560  
    

 

 

 
Netherlands - 3.6%  

EXOR NV

    4,900        330,172  

Heineken Holding NV

    21,543        2,065,465  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    63,665        2,708,125  
    

 

 

 
       5,103,762  
    

 

 

 
Norway - 0.5%  

Marine Harvest ASA

    35,100        699,039  
    

 

 

 
Republic of Korea - 0.6%  

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

    21,500        899,933  
    

 

 

 
Singapore - 1.5%  

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

    110,500        2,158,095  
    

 

 

 
Spain - 1.1%  

Mediaset Espana Comunicacion SA

    82,400        694,950  

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy SA (A)

    62,500        839,721  
    

 

 

 
       1,534,671  
    

 

 

 
Sweden - 0.6%  

Investor AB, B Shares

    20,778        846,500  
    

 

 

 
Switzerland - 7.5%  

ABB, Ltd.

    78,400          1,718,736  

Glencore PLC (B)

    105,200          502,593  

Nestle SA

    41,179        3,197,682  

Novartis AG

    40,180        3,054,378  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Switzerland (continued)  

UBS Group AG (B)

    140,100        $   2,168,063  
    

 

 

 
       10,641,452  
    

 

 

 
United Kingdom - 15.0%  

Aviva PLC

    334,060        2,222,014  

Barratt Developments PLC

    50,800        345,541  

British Land Co. PLC, REIT

    161,300        1,430,951  

HSBC Holdings PLC

    210,100        1,970,960  

Imperial Brands PLC

    60,599        2,256,910  

Inchcape PLC

    111,287        1,146,329  

Informa PLC

    80,705        889,364  

Inmarsat PLC

    175,600        1,274,615  

National Grid PLC

    143,424        1,586,956  

Persimmon PLC

    14,700        491,410  

Savills PLC

    33,800        388,086  

Standard Life Aberdeen PLC

    278,200        1,195,823  

TechnipFMC PLC

    55,600        1,764,744  

Tesco PLC

    450,600        1,526,543  

Unilever PLC

    21,993        1,216,739  

Vodafone Group PLC

    681,744        1,653,887  
    

 

 

 
       21,360,872  
    

 

 

 
United States - 1.9%  

Allergan PLC

    10,100        1,683,872  

Flex, Ltd. (B)

    73,100        1,031,441  
    

 

 

 
       2,715,313  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $128,777,668)

 

       137,359,875  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 2.0%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    2,900,780        $   2,900,780  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $2,900,780)

 

     2,900,780  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 3.0%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $4,249,431 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $4,337,578.

    $  4,249,112        4,249,112  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $4,249,112)

 

     4,249,112  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $135,927,560)

 

     144,509,767  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (1.4)%

       (1,990,252
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  142,519,515  
    

 

 

 
 

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY:

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Pharmaceuticals

    7.9      $   11,403,311  

Banks

    6.9          9,937,551  

Industrial Conglomerates

    5.1          7,412,018  

Capital Markets

    5.1          7,373,633  

Diversified Financial Services

    4.6          6,659,730  

Insurance

    4.2          6,003,865  

Multi-Utilities

    3.9          5,669,477  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

    3.7          5,307,546  

Media

    3.5          5,038,229  

Chemicals

    2.9          4,220,494  

Wireless Telecommunication Services

    2.8          4,057,467  

Food Products

    2.7          3,896,721  

Airlines

    2.4          3,427,950  

Electrical Equipment

    2.3          3,352,686  

Household Durables

    2.3          3,318,132  

Metals & Mining

    2.3          3,259,505  

Food & Staples Retailing

    2.2          3,154,112  

Software

    2.1          2,993,710  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components

    2.0          2,871,870  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies

    1.9          2,708,125  

Beverages

    1.8          2,564,525  

Diversified Telecommunication Services

    1.7          2,511,839  

Auto Components

    1.6          2,373,737  

Tobacco

    1.6          2,256,910  

Machinery

    1.5          2,223,749  

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

INVESTMENTS BY INDUSTRY (continued):

 

 

Industry   Percentage of
Total Investments
       Value  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment

    1.5 %        $ 2,210,249  

Construction Materials

    1.5          2,188,551  

Aerospace & Defense

    1.5          2,168,740  

Containers & Packaging

    1.3          1,848,684  

Real Estate Management & Development

    1.2          1,804,717  

Energy Equipment & Services

    1.2          1,764,744  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts

    1.0          1,430,951  

Water Utilities

    0.9          1,283,544  

Health Care Providers & Services

    0.9          1,228,987  

Personal Products

    0.8          1,216,739  

Distributors

    0.8          1,146,329  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure

    0.8          1,137,652  

Marine

    0.8          1,121,200  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals

    0.6          899,933  

Specialty Retail

    0.5          726,878  

Trading Companies & Distributors

    0.3          461,645  

Automobiles

    0.3          395,170  

IT Services

    0.2          328,270  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Investments, at Value

    95.1          137,359,875  

Short-Term Investments

    4.9          7,149,892  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total Investments

    100.0      $   144,509,767  
 

 

 

      

 

 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 7,822,049     $ 129,537,826     $     $ 137,359,875  

Securities Lending Collateral

    2,900,780                   2,900,780  

Repurchase Agreement

          4,249,112             4,249,112  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 10,722,829     $ 133,786,938     $     $ 144,509,767  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $2,783,932. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(B)    Non-income producing securities.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS:

 

ADR    American Depositary Receipt
REIT    Real Estate Investment Trust

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $131,678,448)
(including securities loaned of $2,783,932)

  $ 140,260,655  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $4,249,112)

    4,249,112  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $73,165)

    73,056  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    7,196  

Investments sold

    1,584,626  

Interest

    106  

Dividends

    339,139  

Tax reclaims

    198,453  

Net income from securities lending

    1,548  

Prepaid expenses

    529  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    146,714,420  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    31,350  

Investments purchased

    1,115,597  

Investment management fees

    88,556  

Distribution and service fees

    11,295  

Transfer agent costs

    238  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    498  

Audit and tax fees

    9,452  

Custody fees

    20,668  

Legal fees

    1,344  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    11,368  

Other

    3,759  

Collateral for securities on loan

    2,900,780  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    4,194,905  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 142,519,515  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 101,833  

Additional paid-in capital

    127,309,365  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    5,520,962  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    1,009,836  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    8,582,207  

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (4,688
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $   142,519,515  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 86,921,663  

Service Class

    55,597,852  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    6,187,877  

Service Class

    3,995,396  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 14.05  

Service Class

    13.92  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 3,244,155  

Interest income

    12,052  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

    26,859  

Withholding taxes on foreign income

    (292,848
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    2,990,218  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    560,115  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    71,625  

Transfer agent costs

    1,021  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    2,241  

Audit and tax fees

    10,553  

Custody fees

    75,773  

Legal fees

    4,333  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    5,936  

Other

    4,228  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    735,825  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    2,254,393  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    5,322,114  

Foreign currency transactions

    (52,236
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    5,269,878  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    (11,412,953

Translation of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (7,272
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

      (11,420,225
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    (6,150,347
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ (3,895,954
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,254,393     $ 3,262,709  

Net realized gain (loss)

    5,269,878       (1,471,063

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    (11,420,225     24,265,785  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (3,895,954     26,057,431  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (1,802,789

Service Class

          (869,894
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (2,672,683
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    5,176,396       6,028,588  

Service Class

    2,691,308       15,817,910  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    7,867,704       21,846,498  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          1,802,789  

Service Class

          869,894  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,672,683  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (4,520,367     (8,713,259

Service Class

    (3,501,017     (4,899,721
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (8,021,384     (13,612,980
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (153,680     10,906,201  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (4,049,634     34,290,949  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    146,569,149       112,278,200  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   142,519,515     $   146,569,149  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 5,520,962     $ 3,266,569  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    358,461       445,651  

Service Class

    185,824       1,185,370  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    544,285       1,631,021  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          133,937  

Service Class

          65,112  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          199,049  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (310,732     (650,398

Service Class

    (242,225     (371,802
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (552,957     (1,022,200
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    47,729       (70,810

Service Class

    (56,401     878,680  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (8,672     807,870  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 14.43     $ 12.00     $ 12.20     $ 12.43     $ 13.42     $ 11.05  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.23       0.36       0.27 (B)       0.31       0.41       0.25  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.61     2.37       (0.14     (0.14     (1.08     2.41  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.38     2.73       0.13       0.17       (0.67     2.66  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.30     (0.33     (0.40     (0.32     (0.29
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 14.05     $ 14.43     $ 12.00     $ 12.20     $ 12.43     $ 13.42  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (2.63 )%(D)      22.91     1.08     1.32     (5.18 )%      24.34
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   86,922     $   88,588     $   74,507     $   87,448     $   98,735     $   117,580  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.91 %(E)      0.93     0.91     0.87     0.89     1.02

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.91 %(E)      0.93     0.89 %(B)      0.87     0.89     1.04

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    3.20 %(E)      2.67     2.32 %(B)      2.41     3.05     2.06

Portfolio turnover rate

    13 %(D)      24     22     26     30     109 %(F) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Increase in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 14.31     $ 11.90     $ 12.11     $ 12.35     $ 13.34     $ 10.99  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.21       0.31       0.24 (B)       0.26       0.35       0.21  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.60     2.37       (0.14     (0.13     (1.05     2.41  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.39     2.68       0.10       0.13       (0.70     2.62  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.27     (0.31     (0.37     (0.29     (0.27
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 13.92     $ 14.31     $ 11.90     $ 12.11     $ 12.35     $ 13.34  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    (2.73 )%(D)      22.66     0.77     1.04     (5.38 )%      24.07
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   55,598     $   57,981     $   37,771     $   39,941     $   32,145     $   28,054  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.16 %(E)      1.18     1.16     1.12     1.14     1.27

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    1.16 %(E)      1.18     1.14 %(B)      1.12     1.14     1.29

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    2.94 %(E)      2.28     2.06 %(B)      2.05     2.66     1.75

Portfolio turnover rate

    13 %(D)      24     22     26     30     109 %(F) 

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.02% higher and 0.02% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.
(F)    Increase in portfolio turnover rate was triggered by a change in the Portfolio’s sub-adviser.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $984.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

 

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Foreign equity securities: Securities in which the primary trading market closes at the same time or after the NYSE, are valued based on quotations from the primary market in which they are traded and are categorized in Level 1. Because many foreign securities markets and exchanges close prior to the close of the NYSE, closing prices for foreign securities in those markets or on those exchanges do not reflect the events that occur after that close. Certain foreign securities may be fair valued using a pricing service that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments such as American Depositary Receipts, financial futures, ETF and the movement of the certain indices of securities based on a statistical analysis of their historical relationship; such valuations generally are categorized in Level 2.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

 

Common Stocks

  $ 2,900,780     $     $     $     $ 2,900,780  

Total Borrowings

  $   2,900,780     $   —     $   —     $   —     $   2,900,780  
                                         

6. RISK FACTORS

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Emerging market risk: Investments in the securities of issuers located in or principally doing business in emerging markets are subject to heightened foreign investments risks. Emerging market countries tend to have economic, political and legal systems that are less fully developed and are less stable than those of more developed countries. Emerging market securities are often particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect speculative expectations. Low trading volumes may result in a lack of liquidity and in extreme price volatility.

Foreign investment risk: Investing in securities of foreign issuers or issuers with significant exposure to foreign markets involves additional risk. Foreign countries in which the Fund may invest may have markets that are less liquid, less regulated and more volatile

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK FACTORS (continued)

 

than U.S. markets. The value of the Fund’s investments may decline because of factors affecting a particular issuer as well as foreign markets and issuers generally, such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions, reduction of government or central bank support, political or financial instability or other adverse economic or political developments. Lack of information and weaker accounting standards also may affect the value of these securities.

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $500 million

     0.77

Over $500 million up to $1 billion

     0.75  

Over $1 billion up to $2 billion

     0.72  

Over $2 billion

     0.69  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     1.02    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.27      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

7. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

8. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities

     

Sales/Maturities of Securities

Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  18,638,637   $  —     $  18,681,039   $  —

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

9. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  135,927,560   $  18,461,407   $  (9,879,200)   $  8,582,207

10. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Thompson, Siegel & Walmsley LLC (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe for the past 3-, 5- and 10-year periods and below the median for the past 1-year period. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on May 1, 2013 pursuant to its current investment objective and investment strategies. The Trustees observed that the performance of the Portfolio had improved during the first quarter of 2018.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was below the medians for its peer group and peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees and TAM agreed upon an additional breakpoint to the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica TS&W International Equity VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period
January 1, 2018 -
June 30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $ 982.20     $   0.64(C )     $   1,024.10     $   0.70       0.14

Service Class

    1,000.00         1,023.90       1.96(B )       1,022.90       1.96       0.39  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Class commenced operations on January 12, 2018. Actual expenses are calculated using each Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (169 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days). For comparability purposes, hypothetical expenses assume that the Portfolio was in operation for the entire six-month period ended June 30, 2018. Thus, the hypothetical expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     96.2

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) ^

     3.8  

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 
^

The Net Other Assets (Liabilities) category may include, but is not limited to, reverse repurchase agreements, forward foreign currency contracts, futures contracts, swap agreements, written options and swaptions, and cash collateral.

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 96.2%  
Aerospace & Defense - 2.6%  

Arconic, Inc.

    648        $  11,023  

Boeing Co.

    1,000        335,510  

General Dynamics Corp.

    500        93,205  

Harris Corp.

    191        27,607  

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc.

    63        13,658  

L3 Technologies, Inc.

    100        19,232  

Lockheed Martin Corp.

    400        118,172  

Northrop Grumman Corp.

    300        92,310  

Raytheon Co.

    500        96,590  

Rockwell Collins, Inc.

    300        40,404  

Textron, Inc.

    400        26,364  

TransDigm Group, Inc.

    100        34,514  

United Technologies Corp.

    1,277        159,663  
    

 

 

 
       1,068,252  
    

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.6%  

CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc.

    278        23,257  

Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.

    296        21,638  

FedEx Corp.

    400        90,824  

United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B

    1,200        127,476  
    

 

 

 
       263,195  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.4%  

Alaska Air Group, Inc.

    221        13,346  

American Airlines Group, Inc.

    695        26,382  

Delta Air Lines, Inc.

    1,082        53,603  

Southwest Airlines Co.

    849        43,197  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (A)

    400        27,892  
    

 

 

 
       164,420  
    

 

 

 
Auto Components - 0.2%  

Aptiv PLC

    487        44,624  

BorgWarner, Inc.

    290        12,516  

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.

    400        9,316  
    

 

 

 
       66,456  
    

 

 

 
Automobiles - 0.4%  

Ford Motor Co.

    6,351        70,306  

General Motors Co.

    2,200        86,680  

Harley-Davidson, Inc.

    300        12,624  
    

 

 

 
       169,610  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 6.0%  

Bank of America Corp.

    16,600        467,954  

BB&T Corp.

    1,337        67,438  

Citigroup, Inc.

    4,500        301,140  

Citizens Financial Group, Inc.

    902        35,088  

Comerica, Inc.

    331        30,094  

Fifth Third Bancorp

    1,093        31,369  

Huntington Bancshares, Inc.

    2,000        29,520  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

    6,000        625,200  

KeyCorp

    1,694        33,101  

M&T Bank Corp.

    300        51,045  

People’s United Financial, Inc.

    470        8,502  

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.

    787        106,324  

Regions Financial Corp.

    1,811        32,200  

SunTrust Banks, Inc.

    781        51,562  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    100        28,876  

US Bancorp

    2,628        131,453  

Wells Fargo & Co.

    7,700        426,888  

Zions Bancorporation

    292        15,385  
    

 

 

 
       2,473,139  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Beverages - 1.7%  

Brown-Forman Corp., Class B

    451        $   22,104  

Coca-Cola Co.

    6,500        285,090  

Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A

    269        58,876  

Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B

    262        17,826  

Monster Beverage Corp. (A)

    657        37,646  

PepsiCo, Inc.

    2,500        272,175  
    

 

 

 
       693,717  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 2.4%  

AbbVie, Inc.

    2,600        240,890  

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    396        49,163  

Amgen, Inc.

    1,200        221,508  

Biogen, Inc. (A)

    400        116,096  

Celgene Corp. (A)

    1,200        95,304  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

    2,201        155,919  

Incyte Corp. (A)

    300        20,100  

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    97        33,464  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    400        67,984  
    

 

 

 
       1,000,428  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.3%  

A.O. Smith Corp.

    244        14,433  

Allegion PLC

    212        16,400  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

    248        13,315  

Johnson Controls International PLC

    1,600        53,520  

Masco Corp.

    457        17,101  
    

 

 

 
       114,769  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.9%  

Affiliated Managers Group, Inc.

    68        10,110  

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

    233        32,592  

Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

    1,684        90,818  

BlackRock, Inc.

    200        99,808  

Cboe Global Markets, Inc.

    163        16,963  

Charles Schwab Corp.

    2,000        102,200  

CME Group, Inc.

    600        98,352  

E*TRADE Financial Corp. (A)

    407        24,892  

Franklin Resources, Inc.

    499        15,993  

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

    600        132,342  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    984        72,373  

Invesco, Ltd.

    571        15,166  

Moody’s Corp.

    280        47,757  

Morgan Stanley

    2,300        109,020  

MSCI, Inc.

    149        24,649  

Nasdaq, Inc.

    251        22,909  

Northern Trust Corp.

    400        41,156  

Raymond James Financial, Inc.

    256        22,874  

S&P Global, Inc.

    500        101,945  

State Street Corp.

    595        55,388  

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    470        54,562  
    

 

 

 
       1,191,869  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 1.8%  

Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.

    400        62,292  

Albemarle Corp.

    241        22,733  

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

    400        17,760  

DowDuPont, Inc.

    3,900        257,088  

Eastman Chemical Co.

    282        28,189  

Ecolab, Inc.

    400        56,132  

FMC Corp.

    258        23,016  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Chemicals (continued)  

International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.

    100        $   12,396  

LyondellBasell Industries NV, Class A

    600        65,910  

Mosaic Co.

    500        14,025  

PPG Industries, Inc.

    468        48,546  

Praxair, Inc.

    500        79,075  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    138        56,245  
    

 

 

 
       743,407  
    

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies - 0.3%  

Cintas Corp.

    138        25,540  

Copart, Inc. (A)

    300        16,968  

Republic Services, Inc.

    346        23,652  

Stericycle, Inc. (A)

    108        7,051  

Waste Management, Inc.

    702        57,101  
    

 

 

 
       130,312  
    

 

 

 
Communications Equipment - 1.0%  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    8,300        357,149  

F5 Networks, Inc. (A)

    86        14,831  

Juniper Networks, Inc.

    658        18,042  

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

    304        35,377  
    

 

 

 
       425,399  
    

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering - 0.1%  

Fluor Corp.

    187        9,122  

Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.

    184        11,682  

Quanta Services, Inc. (A)

    200        6,680  
    

 

 

 
       27,484  
    

 

 

 
Construction Materials - 0.1%  

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.

    91        20,323  

Vulcan Materials Co.

    200        25,812  
    

 

 

 
       46,135  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.7%  

American Express Co.

    1,300        127,400  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    869        79,861  

Discover Financial Services

    600        42,246  

Synchrony Financial

    1,102        36,785  
    

 

 

 
       286,292  
    

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging - 0.3%  

Avery Dennison Corp.

    191        19,501  

Ball Corp.

    518        18,415  

International Paper Co.

    700        36,456  

Packaging Corp. of America

    127        14,198  

Sealed Air Corp.

    300        12,735  

WestRock Co.

    466        26,571  
    

 

 

 
       127,876  
    

 

 

 
Distributors - 0.1%  

Genuine Parts Co.

    266        24,416  

LKQ Corp. (A)

    435        13,877  
    

 

 

 
       38,293  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.0% (B)  

H&R Block, Inc.

    300        6,834  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services - 1.6%  

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (A)

    3,400        634,610  

Jefferies Financial Group, Inc.

    415        9,437  
    

 

 

 
       644,047  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 2.0%  

AT&T, Inc.

    13,000        $   417,430  

CenturyLink, Inc.

    1,555        28,985  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    7,300        367,263  
    

 

 

 
       813,678  
    

 

 

 
Electric Utilities - 1.7%  

Alliant Energy Corp.

    383        16,208  

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

    839        58,101  

Duke Energy Corp.

    1,190        94,105  

Edison International

    556        35,178  

Entergy Corp.

    335        27,065  

Evergy, Inc.

    400        22,462  

Eversource Energy

    497        29,129  

Exelon Corp.

    1,700        72,420  

FirstEnergy Corp.

    700        25,137  

NextEra Energy, Inc.

    800        133,624  

PG&E Corp.

    877        37,325  

Pinnacle West Capital Corp.

    144        11,601  

PPL Corp.

    1,242        35,459  

Southern Co.

    1,636        75,763  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    790        36,087  
    

 

 

 
       709,664  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 0.5%  

Acuity Brands, Inc.

    46        5,330  

AMETEK, Inc.

    442        31,895  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    772        57,699  

Emerson Electric Co.

    1,022        70,661  

Rockwell Automation, Inc.

    193        32,082  
    

 

 

 
       197,667  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.4%  

Amphenol Corp., Class A

    505        44,011  

Corning, Inc.

    1,356        37,303  

FLIR Systems, Inc.

    200        10,394  

IPG Photonics Corp. (A)

    63        13,900  

TE Connectivity, Ltd.

    573        51,604  
    

 

 

 
       157,212  
    

 

 

 
Energy Equipment & Services - 0.7%  

Baker Hughes a GE Co.

    600        19,818  

Halliburton Co.

    1,400        63,084  

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

    175        11,158  

National Oilwell Varco, Inc.

    600        26,040  

Schlumberger, Ltd.

    2,300        154,169  

TechnipFMC PLC

    700        22,218  
    

 

 

 
       296,487  
    

 

 

 
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts - 2.6%  

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

    165        20,818  

American Tower Corp.

    800        115,336  

Apartment Investment & Management Co., Class A

    285        12,055  

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

    190        32,659  

Boston Properties, Inc.

    308        38,629  

Crown Castle International Corp.

    758        81,727  

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

    400        44,632  

Duke Realty Corp.

    545        15,821  

Equinix, Inc.

    127        54,596  

Equity Residential

    656        41,781  

Essex Property Trust, Inc.

    100        23,907  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (continued)  

Extra Space Storage, Inc.

    245        $   24,453  

Federal Realty Investment Trust

    98        12,402  

GGP, Inc.

    939        19,184  

HCP, Inc.

    700        18,074  

Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

    1,103        23,240  

Iron Mountain, Inc.

    416        14,564  

Kimco Realty Corp.

    643        10,925  

Macerich Co.

    200        11,366  

Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc.

    246        24,765  

Prologis, Inc.

    901        59,187  

Public Storage

    251        56,942  

Realty Income Corp.

    500        26,895  

Regency Centers Corp.

    257        15,955  

SBA Communications Corp. (A)

    170        28,070  

Simon Property Group, Inc.

    500        85,095  

SL Green Realty Corp.

    120        12,064  

UDR, Inc.

    407        15,279  

Ventas, Inc.

    608        34,626  

Vornado Realty Trust

    309        22,841  

Welltower, Inc.

    659        41,313  

Weyerhaeuser Co.

    1,200        43,752  
    

 

 

 
       1,082,953  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.4%  

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    800        167,184  

Kroger Co.

    1,351        38,436  

Sysco Corp.

    836        57,090  

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

    1,500        90,023  

Walmart, Inc.

    2,600        222,690  
    

 

 

 
       575,423  
    

 

 

 
Food Products - 1.0%  

Archer-Daniels-Midland Co.

    944        43,264  

Campbell Soup Co.

    288        11,676  

Conagra Brands, Inc.

    644        23,010  

General Mills, Inc.

    974        43,109  

Hershey Co.

    200        18,612  

Hormel Foods Corp.

    400        14,884  

J.M. Smucker, Co.

    159        17,089  

Kellogg Co.

    460        32,140  

Kraft Heinz Co.

    992        62,317  

McCormick & Co., Inc.

    198        22,986  

Mondelez International, Inc., Class A

    2,519        103,279  

Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A

    487        33,530  
    

 

 

 
       425,896  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 3.0%  

Abbott Laboratories

    3,000        182,970  

ABIOMED, Inc. (A)

    100        40,905  

Align Technology, Inc. (A)

    100        34,214  

Baxter International, Inc.

    845        62,395  

Becton Dickinson and Co.

    500        119,780  

Boston Scientific Corp. (A)

    2,343        76,616  

Cooper Cos., Inc.

    79        18,601  

Danaher Corp.

    1,100        108,548  

DENTSPLY SIRONA, Inc.

    350        15,320  

Edwards Lifesciences Corp. (A)

    393        57,209  

Hologic, Inc. (A)

    422        16,774  

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (A)

    139        30,294  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (A)

    200        95,696  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Health Care Equipment & Supplies (continued)  

Medtronic PLC

    2,300        $   196,903  

ResMed, Inc.

    273        28,277  

Stryker Corp.

    518        87,469  

Varian Medical Systems, Inc. (A)

    199        22,630  

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

    393        43,796  
    

 

 

 
       1,238,397  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 3.0%  

Aetna, Inc.

    572        104,962  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

    311        26,519  

Anthem, Inc.

    400        95,212  

Cardinal Health, Inc.

    469        22,901  

Centene Corp. (A)

    332        40,906  

Cigna Corp.

    388        65,940  

CVS Health Corp.

    1,700        109,395  

DaVita, Inc. (A)

    267        18,540  

Envision Healthcare Corp. (A)

    191        8,406  

Express Scripts Holding Co. (A)

    918        70,879  

HCA Healthcare, Inc.

    477        48,940  

Henry Schein, Inc. (A)

    234        16,998  

Humana, Inc.

    200        59,526  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings (A)

    171        30,700  

McKesson Corp.

    392        52,293  

Quest Diagnostics, Inc.

    272        29,904  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    1,700        417,078  

Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B

    211        23,514  
    

 

 

 
       1,242,613  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Technology - 0.1%  

Cerner Corp. (A)

    494        29,536  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.5%  

Carnival Corp.

    700        40,117  

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (A)

    39        16,823  

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

    206        22,054  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    434        34,355  

Marriott International, Inc., Class A

    526        66,592  

McDonald’s Corp.

    1,400        219,366  

MGM Resorts International

    758        22,005  

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    302        14,270  

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.

    315        32,634  

Starbucks Corp.

    2,339        114,260  

Wynn Resorts, Ltd.

    100        16,734  

Yum! Brands, Inc.

    536        41,926  
    

 

 

 
       641,136  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.3%  

D.R. Horton, Inc.

    525        21,525  

Garmin, Ltd.

    200        12,200  

Leggett & Platt, Inc.

    165        7,366  

Lennar Corp., Class A

    447        23,467  

Mohawk Industries, Inc. (A)

    100        21,427  

Newell Brands, Inc.

    700        18,053  

PulteGroup, Inc.

    399        11,471  

Whirlpool Corp.

    100        14,623  
    

 

 

 
       130,132  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 1.4%  

Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

    402        21,371  

Clorox Co.

    257        34,759  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    1,437        93,132  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Household Products (continued)  

Kimberly-Clark Corp.

    600        $   63,204  

Procter & Gamble Co.

    4,500        351,270  
    

 

 

 
       563,736  
    

 

 

 
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.1%  

AES Corp.

    957        12,834  

NRG Energy, Inc.

    496        15,227  
    

 

 

 
       28,061  
    

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.6%  

3M Co.

    1,100        216,392  

General Electric Co.

    14,700        200,067  

Honeywell International, Inc.

    1,297        186,833  

Roper Technologies, Inc.

    165        45,525  
    

 

 

 
       648,817  
    

 

 

 
Insurance - 2.2%  

Aflac, Inc.

    1,384        59,540  

Allstate Corp.

    560        51,111  

American International Group, Inc.

    1,500        79,530  

Aon PLC

    467        64,058  

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

    352        22,979  

Assurant, Inc.

    142        14,696  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (A)

    119        4,768  

Chubb, Ltd.

    770        97,805  

Cincinnati Financial Corp.

    270        18,052  

Everest Re Group, Ltd.

    52        11,985  

Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

    600        30,678  

Lincoln National Corp.

    328        20,418  

Loews Corp.

    384        18,540  

Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.

    829        67,953  

MetLife, Inc.

    1,712        74,643  

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

    415        21,974  

Progressive Corp.

    974        57,612  

Prudential Financial, Inc.

    698        65,270  

Torchmark Corp.

    138        11,235  

Travelers Cos., Inc.

    465        56,888  

Unum Group

    300        11,097  

Willis Towers Watson PLC

    200        30,320  

XL Group, Ltd.

    419        23,443  
    

 

 

 
       914,595  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Catalog Retail - 0.0% (B)  

TripAdvisor, Inc. (A)

    217        12,089  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 4.1%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    700        1,189,860  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    81        164,194  

Expedia Group, Inc.

    256        30,769  

Netflix, Inc. (A)

    800        313,144  
    

 

 

 
       1,697,967  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 5.1%  

Akamai Technologies, Inc. (A)

    321        23,507  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    500        564,595  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    500        557,825  

eBay, Inc. (A)

    1,500        54,390  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    4,200        816,144  

Twitter, Inc. (A)

    1,100        48,037  

VeriSign, Inc. (A)

    200        27,484  
    

 

 

 
       2,091,982  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
IT Services - 4.5%  

Accenture PLC, Class A

    1,100        $   179,949  

Alliance Data Systems Corp.

    73        17,024  

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.

    800        107,312  

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.

    200        23,020  

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A

    973        76,857  

DXC Technology Co.

    481        38,773  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    582        61,710  

Fiserv, Inc. (A)

    660        48,899  

FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (A)

    200        42,130  

Gartner, Inc. (A)

    200        26,580  

Global Payments, Inc.

    300        33,447  

International Business Machines Corp.

    1,500        209,550  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    1,600        314,432  

Paychex, Inc.

    497        33,970  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (A)

    2,000        166,540  

Total System Services, Inc.

    300        25,356  

Visa, Inc., Class A

    3,200        423,840  

Western Union Co.

    662        13,459  
    

 

 

 
       1,842,848  
    

 

 

 
Leisure Products - 0.1%  

Hasbro, Inc.

    191        17,631  

Mattel, Inc.

    558        9,163  
    

 

 

 
       26,794  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.8%  

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

    547        33,826  

Illumina, Inc. (A)

    300        83,787  

IQVIA Holdings, Inc. (A)

    283        28,249  

Mettler-Toledo International, Inc. (A)

    41        23,724  

PerkinElmer, Inc.

    144        10,545  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    700        144,998  

Waters Corp. (A)

    100        19,359  
    

 

 

 
       344,488  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 1.4%  

Caterpillar, Inc.

    1,000        135,670  

Cummins, Inc.

    300        39,900  

Deere & Co.

    590        82,482  

Dover Corp.

    300        21,960  

Flowserve Corp.

    190        7,676  

Fortive Corp.

    500        38,555  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    566        78,414  

Ingersoll-Rand PLC

    454        40,737  

PACCAR, Inc.

    547        33,892  

Parker-Hannifin Corp.

    200        31,170  

Pentair PLC

    237        9,973  

Snap-on, Inc.

    71        11,411  

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

    300        39,843  

Xylem, Inc.

    268        18,058  
    

 

 

 
       589,741  
    

 

 

 
Media - 2.1%  

CBS Corp., Class B

    593        33,338  

Charter Communications, Inc., Class A (A)

    300        87,963  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    7,700        252,637  

Discovery, Inc., Class A (A)

    208        5,720  

Discovery, Inc., Class C (A)

    444        11,322  

DISH Network Corp., Class A (A)

    344        11,562  

Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc.

    600        14,064  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Media (continued)  

News Corp., Class A

    500        $   7,750  

News Corp., Class B

    200        3,170  

Omnicom Group, Inc.

    342        26,084  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A

    1,700        84,473  

Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class B

    724        35,672  

Viacom, Inc., Class B

    497        14,990  

Walt Disney Co.

    2,553        267,580  
    

 

 

 
       856,325  
    

 

 

 
Metals & Mining - 0.2%  

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

    2,140        36,936  

Newmont Mining Corp.

    904        34,090  

Nucor Corp.

    559        34,938  
    

 

 

 
       105,964  
    

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities - 0.9%  

Ameren Corp.

    379        23,062  

CenterPoint Energy, Inc.

    625        17,319  

CMS Energy Corp.

    492        23,262  

Consolidated Edison, Inc.

    495        38,600  

Dominion Energy, Inc.

    1,137        77,521  

DTE Energy Co.

    342        35,441  

NiSource, Inc.

    480        12,614  

Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.

    786        42,554  

SCANA Corp.

    239        9,206  

Sempra Energy

    500        58,055  

WEC Energy Group, Inc.

    509        32,907  
    

 

 

 
       370,541  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 0.5%  

Dollar General Corp.

    475        46,835  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (A)

    400        34,000  

Kohl’s Corp.

    266        19,391  

Macy’s, Inc.

    509        19,052  

Nordstrom, Inc.

    191        9,890  

Target Corp.

    910        69,269  
    

 

 

 
       198,437  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 5.4%  

Anadarko Petroleum Corp.

    876        64,167  

Andeavor

    200        26,236  

Apache Corp.

    598        27,956  

Cabot Oil & Gas Corp.

    635        15,113  

Chevron Corp.

    3,400        429,862  

Cimarex Energy Co.

    200        20,348  

Concho Resources, Inc. (A)

    300        41,505  

ConocoPhillips

    2,000        139,240  

Devon Energy Corp.

    968        42,553  

EOG Resources, Inc.

    952        118,457  

EQT Corp.

    461        25,438  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    7,500        620,475  

Hess Corp.

    407        27,224  

HollyFrontier Corp.

    300        20,529  

Kinder Morgan, Inc.

    2,986        52,763  

Marathon Oil Corp.

    1,382        28,829  

Marathon Petroleum Corp.

    792        55,567  

Newfield Exploration Co. (A)

    336        10,164  

Noble Energy, Inc.

    727        25,649  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

    1,300        108,784  

ONEOK, Inc.

    700        48,881  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (continued)  

Phillips 66

    700        $   78,617  

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

    300        56,772  

Range Resources Corp.

    366        6,123  

Valero Energy Corp.

    753        83,455  

Williams Cos., Inc.

    1,446        39,201  
    

 

 

 
       2,213,908  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 0.1%  

Coty, Inc., Class A

    698        9,842  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    375        53,509  
    

 

 

 
       63,351  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 4.3%  

Allergan PLC

    600        100,032  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    2,800        154,952  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    1,641        140,027  

Johnson & Johnson

    4,700        570,298  

Merck & Co., Inc.

    4,700        285,290  

Mylan NV (A)

    817        29,526  

Nektar Therapeutics (A)

    300        14,649  

Perrigo Co. PLC

    255        18,592  

Pfizer, Inc.

    10,300        373,684  

Zoetis, Inc.

    847        72,156  
    

 

 

 
       1,759,206  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 0.3%  

Equifax, Inc.

    267        33,404  

IHS Markit, Ltd. (A)

    580        29,922  

Nielsen Holdings PLC

    552        17,073  

Robert Half International, Inc.

    247        16,080  

Verisk Analytics, Inc. (A)

    307        33,046  
    

 

 

 
       129,525  
    

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.1%  

CBRE Group, Inc., Class A (A)

    446        21,292  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 1.0%  

CSX Corp.

    1,600        102,048  

JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc.

    143        17,382  

Kansas City Southern

    238        25,218  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    451        68,042  

Union Pacific Corp.

    1,400        198,352  
    

 

 

 
       411,042  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 3.9%  

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (A)

    1,207        18,093  

Analog Devices, Inc.

    680        65,225  

Applied Materials, Inc.

    1,700        78,523  

Broadcom, Inc.

    700        169,848  

Intel Corp.

    8,200        407,622  

KLA-Tencor Corp.

    300        30,759  

Lam Research Corp.

    275        47,534  

Microchip Technology, Inc.

    398        36,198  

Micron Technology, Inc. (A)

    1,938        101,629  

NVIDIA Corp.

    1,100        260,590  

Qorvo, Inc. (A)

    200        16,034  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

    2,500        140,300  

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.

    332        32,088  

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    1,678        184,999  

Xilinx, Inc.

    431        28,127  
    

 

 

 
       1,617,569  
    

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Software - 5.8%  

Activision Blizzard, Inc.

    1,300        $   99,216  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    900        219,429  

ANSYS, Inc. (A)

    134        23,340  

Autodesk, Inc. (A)

    400        52,436  

CA, Inc.

    518        18,467  

Cadence Design Systems, Inc. (A)

    415        17,974  

Citrix Systems, Inc. (A)

    271        28,411  

Electronic Arts, Inc. (A)

    543        76,574  

Intuit, Inc.

    393        80,292  

Microsoft Corp.

    13,200        1,301,652  

Oracle Corp.

    5,000        220,300  

Red Hat, Inc. (A)

    300        40,311  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    1,200        163,680  

Symantec Corp.

    944        19,493  

Synopsys, Inc. (A)

    272        23,275  

Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (A)

    200        23,672  
    

 

 

 
       2,408,522  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 2.2%  

Advance Auto Parts, Inc.

    100        13,570  

AutoZone, Inc. (A)

    41        27,508  

Best Buy Co., Inc.

    430        32,069  

CarMax, Inc. (A)

    335        24,412  

Foot Locker, Inc.

    247        13,005  

Gap, Inc.

    337        10,915  

Home Depot, Inc.

    1,968        383,957  

L Brands, Inc.

    398        14,678  

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

    1,392        133,034  

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (A)

    127        34,743  

Ross Stores, Inc.

    691        58,562  

Tiffany & Co.

    163        21,451  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    1,100        104,698  

Tractor Supply Co.

    200        15,298  

Ulta Beauty, Inc. (A)

    92        21,478  
    

 

 

 
       909,378  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 4.3%  

Apple, Inc.

    8,500        1,573,435  

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

    2,476        36,174  
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals (continued)  

HP, Inc.

    2,872        $   65,166  

NetApp, Inc.

    489        38,401  

Seagate Technology PLC

    503        28,405  

Western Digital Corp.

    498        38,550  

Xerox Corp.

    300        7,200  
    

 

 

 
       1,787,331  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 0.8%  

Hanesbrands, Inc.

    532        11,715  

Michael Kors Holdings, Ltd. (A)

    291        19,381  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    2,200        175,296  

PVH Corp.

    100        14,972  

Ralph Lauren Corp.

    71        8,926  

Tapestry, Inc.

    440        20,552  

Under Armour, Inc., Class A (A)

    300        6,744  

Under Armour, Inc., Class C (A)

    300        6,324  

VF Corp.

    600        48,912  
    

 

 

 
       312,822  
    

 

 

 
Tobacco - 1.0%  

Altria Group, Inc.

    3,200        181,728  

Philip Morris International, Inc.

    2,800        226,072  
    

 

 

 
       407,800  
    

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.2%  

Fastenal Co.

    461        22,188  

United Rentals, Inc. (A)

    100        14,762  

WW Grainger, Inc.

    100        30,840  
    

 

 

 
       67,790  
    

 

 

 
Water Utilities - 0.1%  

American Water Works Co., Inc.

    261        22,284  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $38,267,200)

 

     39,646,933  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $38,267,200)

 

     39,646,933  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - 3.8%

       1,566,707  
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  41,213,640  
    

 

 

 
 

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS:  
Description   Long/Short     Number of
Contracts
    Expiration
Date
    Notional
Amount
    Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
    Unrealized
Depreciation
 

S&P 500® E-Mini Index

    Long       11       09/21/2018     $   1,519,034     $   1,496,880     $   —     $   (22,154

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

 

Investments

 

Common Stocks

  $ 39,646,933     $     $     $ 39,646,933  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 39,646,933     $     $     $ 39,646,933  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
       

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

SECURITY VALUATION (continued):

 

Valuation Inputs (continued) (C)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

LIABILITIES

 

Other Financial Instruments

 

Futures Contracts (D)

  $ (22,154   $     $     $ (22,154
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Other Financial Instruments

  $ (22,154   $     $     $ (22,154
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    Percentage rounds to less than 0.1% or (0.1)%.
(C)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.
(D)    Futures contracts and/or forward foreign currency contracts are valued at unrealized appreciation (depreciation).

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

 

Investments, at value (cost $38,267,200)

  $   39,646,933  

Cash

    1,529,018  

Cash collateral pledged at broker:

 

Futures contracts

    67,760  

Receivables and other assets:

 

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    19,035  

Due from investment manager

    20,380  

Investments sold

    43,904  

Dividends

    31,120  

Variation margin receivable on futures contracts

    1,138  

Prepaid expenses

    106  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    41,359,394  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payables and other liabilities:

 

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    152  

Investments purchased

    113,498  

Distribution and service fees

    7,723  

Transfer agent costs

    73  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    22  

Audit and tax fees

    8,080  

Custody fees

    6,196  

Legal fees

    450  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    5  

Other

    9,555  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    145,754  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 41,213,640  
 

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

 

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

  $ 35,572  

Additional paid-in capital

    39,402,631  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

    316,274  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

    101,584  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    1,379,733  

Futures contracts

    (22,154
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 41,213,640  
 

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

 

Initial Class

  $ 827,463  

Service Class

    40,386,177  

Shares outstanding:

 

Initial Class

    71,381  

Service Class

    3,485,803  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

 

Initial Class

  $ 11.59  

Service Class

    11.59  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

 

Dividend income

  $ 285,135  

Interest income

    177  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    285,312  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Investment management fees

    12,006  

Distribution and service fees:

 

Service Class

    37,290  

Transfer agency costs

 

Initial Class

    2  

Service Class

    247  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

    429  

Audit and tax fees

    8,105  

Custody fees

    23,633  

Legal fees

    6,823  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

    6,259  

Dues and subscriptions fees

    10,385  

Other

    113  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    105,292  
 

 

 

 

Expenses waived and/or reimbursed:

 

Initial Class

    (496

Service Class

    (46,708

Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees:

 

Initial Class

    212  
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    58,300  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

    227,012  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

 

Investments

    21,577  

Futures contracts

    25,334  
 

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss)

    46,911  
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

 

Investments

    289,532  

Futures contracts

    (19,958
 

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    269,574  
 

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

    316,485  
 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $   543,497  
 

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the periods ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited) (A)
    December 31, 2017 (B)  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 227,012     $ 88,454  

Net realized gain (loss)

    46,911       54,673  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    269,574       1,088,005  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    543,497       1,231,132  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    855,848        

Service Class

    19,804,635       20,105,677  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    20,660,483       20,105,677  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (30,921      

Service Class

    (599,519     (696,709
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (630,440     (696,709
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    20,030,043       19,408,968  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    20,573,540       20,640,100  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period

    20,640,100        
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period

  $   41,213,640     $   20,640,100  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 316,274     $ 89,262  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    74,000        

Service Class

    1,715,759       1,888,909  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,789,759       1,888,909  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (2,619      

Service Class

    (52,910     (65,955
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (55,529     (65,955
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    71,381        

Service Class

    1,662,849       1,822,954  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    1,734,230       1,822,954  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(A)    Initial Class commenced operations on January 12, 2018.
(B)    Service Class commenced operations on May 1, 2017.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited) (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.80  
 

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B)

    0.10  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (0.31 )(C) 
 

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    (0.21
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $   11.59  
 

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    (1.78 )%(E) 
 

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period (000’s)

  $ 828  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.45 %(F) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.14 %(F) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.88 %(F) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    1 %(E) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on January 12, 2018.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    The amount of net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) per share does not correspond with the amounts reported within the Statement of Changes due to the timing of purchases and redemptions of Portfolio shares and fluctuating market values during the period.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.

For a share outstanding during the periods indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017 (A)
 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.32     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (B)

    0.09       0.11  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.18       1.21  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.27       1.32  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.59     $ 11.32  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (C)

    2.39 %(D)      13.20 %(D) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period (000’s)

  $   40,386     $   20,640  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.70 %(E)      1.03 %(E) 

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.39 %(E)      0.39 %(E) 

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    1.51 %(E)      1.49 %(E) 

Portfolio turnover rate

    1 %(D)      4 %(D) 

 

(A)    Commenced operations on May 1, 2017.
(B)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(C)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(D)    Not annualized.
(E)    Annualized.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolio.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

 

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Derivative instruments: Centrally cleared or listed derivatives that are actively traded are valued based on quoted prices from the exchange and are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Over-the-counter (“OTC”) derivative contracts include forward, swap, swaption, and option contracts related to interest rates, foreign currencies, credit standing of reference entities, equity prices, or commodity prices. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the OTC derivative products are modeled taking into account the counterparties’ creditworthiness and using a series of techniques, including simulation models. Many pricing models do not entail material subjectivity because the methodologies employed do not necessitate significant judgments and the pricing inputs are observed from actively quoted markets, as is the case of interest rate swap and option contracts. The majority of OTC derivative products valued by the Portfolio using pricing models fall into this category and are categorized within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

4. SECURITIES AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Real estate investment trusts (“REIT”): REITs are pooled investment vehicles which invest primarily in income producing real estate, or real estate related loans or interests. Distributions received by REITs are classified at management’s estimate of the dividend income, return of capital and capital gains. Estimates are based on information available at year-end, which includes the previous fiscal year’s classification. The actual amounts of dividend income, return of capital, and capital gains are only determined by each REIT after the fiscal year end and may differ from the estimated amounts. Upon notification from the REITs, some of the distributions received may be re-classified and recorded as a return of capital or capital gains. There are certain additional risks involved in investing in REITs. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, changes in zoning laws, real estate values, property taxes, and interest rates.

REITs held at June 30, 2018, if any, are identified within the Schedule of Investments.

 

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

5. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

 

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Portfolio’s investment objectives allow the Portfolio to use various types of derivative contracts, including option contracts, swap agreements, futures contracts, and forward foreign currency contracts. Derivatives are investments whose value is primarily derived from underlying assets, indices or reference rates and may be transacted on an exchange or OTC.

Market Risk Factors: In pursuit of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, the Portfolio may seek to use derivatives to increase or decrease its exposure to the following market risks:

Interest rate risk: Interest rate risk relates to the fluctuations in the value of fixed income securities due to changes in the prevailing levels of market interest rates.

Foreign exchange rate risk: Foreign exchange rate risk relates to fluctuations in the value of an asset or liability due to changes in the currency exchange rates.

Equity risk: Equity risk relates to the change in value of equity securities as they relate to increases or decreases in the general market.

Credit risk: Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a financial instrument to make further principal or interest payments on an obligation or commitment that it has to the Portfolio.

Commodity risk: Commodity risk relates to the change in value of commodities or commodity indices as they relate to increases or decreases in the commodities market. Commodities are physical assets that have tangible properties. Examples of these types of assets are crude oil, heating oil, metals, livestock, and agricultural products.

The Portfolio is also exposed to additional risks from investing in derivatives, such as liquidity and counterparty credit risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Portfolio will be unable to sell or close out the derivative in the open market in a timely manner. Counterparty credit risk is the risk that the counterparty will not be able to fulfill its obligations to the Portfolio. Investing in derivatives may also involve greater risks than investing directly in the underlying assets, such as losses in excess of any initial investment and collateral received. In addition, there may be the risk that the change in value of the derivative contract does not correspond to the change in value of the underlying instrument.

The Portfolio’s exposure to market risk factors and certain other associated risks are summarized by derivative type as follows:

Futures contracts: The Portfolio is subject to equity and commodity risk, interest rate risk, and foreign exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. The Portfolio uses futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities and commodities, interest rates, or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or in securities, an initial margin in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are paid or received by the Portfolio, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. Upon entering into such contracts, the Portfolio bears the risk of equity and commodity prices, interest rates, or exchange rates moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize losses. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Portfolio since futures are exchange-traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. Futures contracts are generally entered into on a regulated futures exchange and cleared through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange.

Open futures contracts at June 30, 2018, if any, are listed within the Schedule of Investments. Variation margin, if applicable, is shown in Variation margin receivable or payable on futures contracts within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the Portfolio’s fair values of derivative investments disclosed, if any, within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Liability Derivatives  
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Net unrealized depreciation on futures contracts (A) (B)

  $     $     $   (22,154    $               —      $               —      $ (22,154

Total

  $   —     $   —     $ (22,154    $      $      $   (22,154
                                                    

 

(A)   May include exchange-traded derivatives which are not subject to a master netting arrangement, or another similar arrangement.
(B)   Included within Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following is a summary of the location and the effect of derivative investments, if any, within the Statement of Operations, categorized by primary market risk exposure as of June 30, 2018.

 

Realized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ 25,334      $               —      $      $ 25,334  

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   25,334      $   —      $               —      $   25,334  
                                                    

Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) on Derivative Instruments

 
Location   Interest Rate
Contracts
    Foreign
Exchange
Contracts
    Equity
Contracts
     Credit
Contracts
     Commodity
Contracts
     Total  

Futures contracts

  $     $     $ (19,958    $      $               —      $ (19,958

Total

  $   —     $   —     $   (19,958    $               —      $      $   (19,958
                                                    

The following is a summary of the ending monthly average volume on derivative activity during the period ended June 30, 2018.

 

Futures Contracts at Notional Amount

Long   Short
357  

Collateral requirements: Collateral or margin requirements are set by the broker or exchange clearing house for exchange-traded derivatives (futures contracts, exchange-traded options, and exchange-traded swap agreements) while collateral terms are contract specific for OTC derivatives (forward foreign currency exchange contracts, OTC options, and OTC swap agreements). For OTC derivatives, under standard derivatives agreements, the Portfolio may be required to post collateral on derivatives if the Portfolio is in a net liability position with the counterparty exceeding certain amounts. Additionally, counterparties may immediately terminate derivatives contracts if the Portfolio fails to maintain sufficient asset coverage for its contracts or its net assets decline by stated percentages.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. RISK EXPOSURES AND THE USE OF DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (continued)

 

For financial reporting purposes, cash collateral that has been pledged or received at the custodian and/or broker to cover obligations of the Portfolio, if any, is reported separately in Cash collateral pledged at custodian and/or broker, and Cash collateral received by the broker within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral pledged to the Portfolio, if any, is disclosed within the Schedule of Investments. Generally, the amount of collateral due from or to a party must exceed a minimum transfer amount threshold before a transfer has been made. To the extent amounts due to the Portfolio from its counterparties are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Portfolio bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.

7. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Index tracking: While an index fund seeks to track the performance of its stated index (i.e. achieve a high degree of correlation with the index), an index fund’s return may not match the return of the index. An index fund incurs a number of operating expenses not applicable to the index, and incurs costs in buying and selling securities. In addition, an index fund may not be fully invested at times, generally as a result of cash flows or reserves of cash held by an index fund to meet redemptions. The sub-adviser may attempt to replicate the index return by investing in fewer than all of the securities of the index, or in some securities not included in the index, potentially increasing the risk of divergence between an index fund’s return and that of its stated index.

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.08% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.14    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     0.39      May 1, 2019

 

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

     Amounts Available         
Class    2017      2018      Total  

Initial Class

   $      $ 284      $ 284  

Service Class

       38,107          46,708          84,815  

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

9. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities        Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government         Long-Term    U.S. Government
$  19,629,477   $  —      $  245,781    $  —

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    18


Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

10. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  38,267,200   $  2,535,247   $  (1,177,668)   $  1,357,579

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the performance of the Portfolio since its inception on May 1, 2017 in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for the period ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

investment company business and investor needs. The Trustees noted that the objective of the Portfolio, as an index fund, is to track, and not necessarily exceed, its benchmark index, and that unlike the Portfolio, the index is not subject to any expenses or transaction costs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant period in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was above the median for its peer universe since its inception. The Board also noted that the performance of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark since its inception.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant period in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Service Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica U.S. Equity Index VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    22


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio (C)
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,101.90     $   1.56     $   1,023.30     $   1.51       0.30
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).
(C)    Expense ratios (as disclosed in the table) do not include the expenses of the investment companies and/or exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) in which the Portfolio invests. The annualized expense ratios, as stated in the fee table of the Portfolio’s Prospectus, may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in this report.

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     99.0

Securities Lending Collateral

     3.1  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.9  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (3.0

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    1


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 99.0%  
Aerospace & Defense - 2.4%  

Boeing Co.

    919        $  308,334  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.5%  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (A)

    998        69,591  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 0.8%  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    337        97,312  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 1.3%  

Monster Beverage Corp. (A)

    2,834        162,388  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 2.5%  

Biogen, Inc. (A)

    298        86,492  

Incyte Corp. (A)

    608        40,736  

Seattle Genetics, Inc. (A)

    1,236        82,058  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    639        108,604  
    

 

 

 
       317,890  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.7%  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

    1,759        94,441  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.4%  

BlackRock, Inc.

    185        92,322  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    1,607        118,195  

MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.

    457        90,422  
    

 

 

 
       300,939  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 1.7%  

PPG Industries, Inc.

    1,408        146,052  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    177        72,140  
    

 

 

 
       218,192  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.9%  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    1,210        111,199  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.3%  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    3,152        158,577  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 1.6%  

AMETEK, Inc.

    1,588        114,590  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    1,186        88,642  
    

 

 

 
       203,232  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 1.4%  

CDW Corp.

    1,204        97,271  

IPG Photonics Corp. (A)

    393        86,708  
    

 

 

 
       183,979  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.5%  

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    892        186,410  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 4.1%  

Baxter International, Inc.

    2,317        171,087  

Boston Scientific Corp. (A)

    3,914        127,988  

Hologic, Inc. (A)

    2,563        101,879  

Medtronic PLC

    1,326        113,519  
    

 

 

 
       514,473  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 2.6%  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    1,333        327,038  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.1%  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    1,798        142,330  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.9%  

Mohawk Industries, Inc. (A)

    528        113,135  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.9%  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    1,690        109,529  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Insurance - 0.8%  

Allstate Corp.

    1,175        $   107,242  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 9.2%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    376        639,125  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    112        227,034  

Netflix, Inc. (A)

    539        210,981  

Wayfair, Inc., Class A (A) (B)

    765        90,851  
    

 

 

 
       1,167,991  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 11.9%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    482        544,270  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    225        251,021  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    2,637        512,422  

GoDaddy, Inc., Class A (A)

    2,969        209,611  
    

 

 

 
       1,517,324  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 7.8%  

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A

    1,215        95,973  

FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (A)

    689        145,138  

Global Payments, Inc.

    1,319        147,055  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    2,289        449,834  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (A)

    1,906        158,713  
    

 

 

 
       996,713  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 1.3%  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    815        168,819  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 3.5%  

Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc. (A)

    2,091        61,454  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    781        108,200  

Middleby Corp. (A) (B)

    652        68,082  

Nordson Corp.

    725        93,097  

Snap-on, Inc.

    690        110,897  
    

 

 

 
       441,730  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.8%  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    7,136        234,132  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 1.3%  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (A)

    1,892        160,820  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.8%  

Continental Resources, Inc. (A)

    1,592        103,098  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 1.0%  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    864        123,284  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 1.8%  

Allergan PLC

    688        114,703  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    2,035        112,617  
    

 

 

 
       227,320  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 1.2%  

Equifax, Inc.

    522        65,307  

IHS Markit, Ltd. (A)

    1,694        87,394  
    

 

 

 
       152,701  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 1.5%  

JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc.

    784        95,295  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    656        98,971  
    

 

 

 
       194,266  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 3.3%  

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (A) (B)

    7,389        110,761  

Lam Research Corp.

    627        108,377  

Micron Technology, Inc. (A)

    2,044        107,187  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (continued)  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (A)

    3,994        $   88,807  
    

 

 

 
       415,132  
    

 

 

 
Software - 10.5%  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    909        221,623  

Guidewire Software, Inc. (A)

    1,077        95,616  

Microsoft Corp.

    4,181        412,288  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    1,734        236,518  

ServiceNow, Inc. (A)

    666        114,865  

SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.

    2,085        108,211  

Workday, Inc., Class A (A)

    1,196        144,860  
    

 

 

 
       1,333,981  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.3%  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    1,798        171,134  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 6.8%  

Apple, Inc.

    3,785        700,641  

NetApp, Inc.

    2,069        162,479  
    

 

 

 
       863,120  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 4.6%  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    3,619        288,362  

Under Armour, Inc., Class C (A) (B)

    5,635        118,786  

VF Corp.

    2,130        173,637  
    

 

 

 
       580,785  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $8,794,348)

 

     12,578,581  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 3.1%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    395,344        $   395,344  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $395,344)

 

     395,344  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.9%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $117,285 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $121,049.

    $  117,276        117,276  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $117,276)

       117,276  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $9,306,968)

       13,091,201  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (3.0)%

       (384,584
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  12,706,617  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 12,578,581     $     $     $ 12,578,581  

Securities Lending Collateral

    395,344                   395,344  

Repurchase Agreement

          117,276             117,276  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 12,973,925     $ 117,276     $     $ 13,091,201  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $384,488. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Investments, at value (cost $9,189,692) (including securities loaned of $384,488)

   $   12,973,925  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $117,276)

     117,276  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Investments sold

     18,762  

Interest

     3  

Dividends

     2,439  

Net income from securities lending

     70  

Prepaid expenses

     41  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     13,112,516  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     345  

Investment management fees

     866  

Transfer agent costs

     32  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     43  

Audit and tax fees

     8,099  

Custody fees

     690  

Legal fees

     174  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     146  

Other

     160  

Collateral for securities on loan

     395,344  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     405,899  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 12,706,617  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 13,499  

Additional paid-in capital

     6,548,960  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     145,737  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     2,214,188  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     3,784,233  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 12,706,617  
  

 

 

 

Shares outstanding

     1,349,892  
  

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 9.41  
  

 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income

   $ 52,392  

Interest income

     306  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     573  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     53,271  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     20,208  

Transfer agent costs

     88  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     195  

Audit and tax fees

     8,160  

Custody fees

     3,744  

Legal fees

     389  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     856  

Other

     170  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses before waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

     33,810  
  

 

 

 

Expense waived and/or reimbursed

     (15,439
  

 

 

 

Net expenses

     18,371  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     34,900  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Investments

     649,988  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     534,174  
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     1,184,162  
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   1,219,062  
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 34,900     $ 114,858  

Net realized gain (loss)

    649,988       1,596,639  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    534,174       1,586,339  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    1,219,062       3,297,836  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (143,738

Net realized gains

          (499,122
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (642,860
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold

    10,258       50,243  

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested

          642,860  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (887,212     (3,096,646
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (876,954     (2,403,543
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    342,108       251,433  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    12,364,509       12,113,076  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   12,706,617     $   12,364,509  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 145,737     $ 110,837  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued

    617       6,319  

Shares reinvested

          83,706  

Shares redeemed

    (98,100     (394,911
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding

    (97,483     (304,886
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 8.54     $ 6.91     $ 6.93     $ 8.80     $ 9.04     $ 7.51  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.03 (B)       0.07 (B)       0.08 (B)(C)       0.08 (B)       0.10 (B)       0.11  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    0.84       1.95       0.17       0.43       0.93       2.29  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    0.87       2.02       0.25       0.51       1.03       2.40  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.09     (0.07     (0.09     (0.12     (0.17

Net realized gains

          (0.30     (0.20     (2.29     (1.15     (0.70
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.39     (0.27     (2.38     (1.27     (0.87
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 9.41     $ 8.54     $ 6.91     $ 6.93     $ 8.80     $ 9.04  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    10.19 %(E)      29.73     3.47     7.11     12.13     33.43
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   12,707     $   12,365     $   12,113     $   12,871     $   13,765     $   12,959  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.55 %(F)(G)      0.55 %(G)      0.52 %(G)      0.51 %(G)      0.87 %(G)      0.91

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.30 %(F)(G)      0.30 %(G)      0.17 %(C)(G)      0.30 %(G)      0.30 %(G)      0.30

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.57 %(B)(F)      0.89 %(B)      1.10 %(B)(C)      0.93 %(B)      1.08 %(B)      1.33

Portfolio turnover rate

    13 %(E)(H)      32 %(H)      40 %(H)      40 %(H)      116 %(H)      55

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was 0.01 to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.00% higher and 0.00% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Annualized.
(G)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers one class of shares, Initial Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

There were no commissions recaptured during the period ended June 30, 2018 by the Portfolios.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

3. SECURITY VALUATION

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolios purchase a security and simultaneously commit to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolios’ custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolios will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolios and their counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolios, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Common Stocks

  $ 395,344     $     $     $     $ 395,344  

Total Borrowings

  $   395,344     $     $     $     $   395,344  
                                         

5. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Growth risk: Returns on growth stocks may not move in tandem with returns on other categories of stocks or the market as a whole. Growth stocks typically are particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect future expectations. When it appears those expectations may not be met, the prices of growth securities typically fall. Growth stocks as a group may be out of favor and underperform the overall equity market for a long period of time, for example, while the market favors “value” stocks.

 

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

 

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM at an annual rate of 0.33% on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”).

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.30    May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, the balances available for recapture by TAM for the Portfolio are as follows:

 

Amounts Available   Total
2015   2016   2017   2018
$  16,908   $  27,180   $  32,178   $  15,439   $  91,705

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

 

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2018. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA up to an annual fee of 0.15% of Initial Class.

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statement of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)
$  59,974   $  —   $  —

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  1,566,271   $  —     $  2,467,976   $  —

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing for state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (continued)

 

unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  9,306,968   $  3,899,869   $  (115,636)   $  3,784,233

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Wellington Management Company, LLP (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 3- and 5-year periods and below the median for the past 1- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on April 9, 2010 and commenced using its current investment strategies on July 1, 2014.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee and the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were below the medians for its peer group and peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth II VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

DISCLOSURE OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES

Portfolio shareholders may incur two types of costs: (i) transaction costs including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of portfolio shares; and (ii) ongoing costs, including management fees, and other portfolio expenses.

The following example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars and cents) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other portfolios.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at January 1, 2018, and held for the entire six-month period until June 30, 2018.

ACTUAL EXPENSES

The information in the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate column for your share class titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

The information in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’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 your Portfolio versus other portfolios. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other portfolios.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges and brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales of Portfolio shares. Therefore, the information under the heading “Hypothetical Expenses” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different portfolios. If any of these transaction costs were included, your costs would be higher. The expenses shown in the table do not reflect any fees that may be charged to you by brokers, financial intermediaries, or other financial institutions.

Expense ratios may vary period to period because of various factors, such as an increase in expenses that are not covered by the management fees, expenses and fees of the trustees and their counsel, extraordinary expenses and interest expense.

 

         

Actual Expenses

   

Hypothetical Expenses (A)

       
Class   Beginning
Account Value
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Ending
Account Value
June 30, 2018
    Expenses Paid
During Period (B)
January 1, 2018 -
June  30, 2018
    Annualized
Expense Ratio
 

Initial Class

  $   1,000.00     $   1,099.10     $   3.64     $   1,021.30     $   3.51       0.70

Service Class

    1,000.00       1,097.80       4.94       1,020.10       4.76       0.95  
(A)    5% return per year before expenses.
(B)    Expenses are calculated using the Portfolio’s annualized expense ratio (as disclosed in the table), multiplied by the average account value for the period, multiplied by the number of days in the period (181 days), and divided by the number of days in the year (365 days).

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS COMPOSITION

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Asset Allocation    Percentage of Net
Assets
 

Common Stocks

     100.0

Securities Lending Collateral

     2.9  

Repurchase Agreement

     0.8  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities)

     (3.7

Total

     100.0
  

 

 

 

Allocations are subject to change.

 

 

 

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Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS - 100.0%  
Aerospace & Defense - 2.5%  

Boeing Co.

    208,703        $  70,021,943  
    

 

 

 
Airlines - 0.5%  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (A)

    222,454        15,511,717  
    

 

 

 
Banks - 0.8%  

SVB Financial Group (A)

    76,589        22,115,840  
    

 

 

 
Beverages - 1.3%  

Monster Beverage Corp. (A)

    647,985        37,129,540  
    

 

 

 
Biotechnology - 2.5%  

Biogen, Inc. (A)

    67,501        19,591,490  

Incyte Corp. (A)

    139,487        9,345,629  

Seattle Genetics, Inc. (A)

    281,242        18,671,657  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (A)

    142,719        24,256,521  
    

 

 

 
       71,865,297  
    

 

 

 
Building Products - 0.8%  

Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.

    404,540        21,719,753  
    

 

 

 
Capital Markets - 2.4%  

BlackRock, Inc.

    41,141        20,531,005  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.

    363,788        26,756,607  

MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.

    105,318        20,838,219  
    

 

 

 
       68,125,831  
    

 

 

 
Chemicals - 1.7%  

PPG Industries, Inc.

    313,670        32,536,989  

Sherwin-Williams Co.

    39,992        16,299,540  
    

 

 

 
       48,836,529  
    

 

 

 
Consumer Finance - 0.9%  

Capital One Financial Corp.

    269,625        24,778,537  
    

 

 

 
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.2%  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    702,429        35,339,203  
    

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment - 1.6%  

AMETEK, Inc.

    359,566        25,946,283  

Eaton Corp. PLC

    268,506        20,068,138  
    

 

 

 
       46,014,421  
    

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 1.5%  

CDW Corp.

    272,591        22,022,627  

IPG Photonics Corp. (A)

    89,607        19,769,992  
    

 

 

 
       41,792,619  
    

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing - 1.5%  

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    198,735        41,531,640  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 4.1%  

Baxter International, Inc.

    530,246        39,153,365  

Boston Scientific Corp. (A)

    896,833        29,326,439  

Hologic, Inc. (A)

    586,252        23,303,517  

Medtronic PLC

    300,282        25,707,142  
    

 

 

 
       117,490,463  
    

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services - 2.6%  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    297,053        72,878,983  
    

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.1%  

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

    391,841        31,018,134  
    

 

 

 
Household Durables - 0.9%  

Mohawk Industries, Inc. (A)

    120,765        25,876,317  
    

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.9%  

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    380,093        24,633,827  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Insurance - 0.9%  

Allstate Corp.

    266,009        $   24,278,641  
    

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 9.3%  

Amazon.com, Inc. (A)

    83,889        142,594,522  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (A)

    24,970        50,616,437  

Netflix, Inc. (A)

    122,171        47,821,395  

Wayfair, Inc., Class A (A) (B)

    202,932        24,100,204  
    

 

 

 
       265,132,558  
    

 

 

 
Internet Software & Services - 12.1%  

Alphabet, Inc., Class A (A)

    109,985        124,193,962  

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (A)

    51,205        57,126,858  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (A)

    602,444        117,066,918  

GoDaddy, Inc., Class A (A)

    678,301        47,888,051  
    

 

 

 
       346,275,789  
    

 

 

 
IT Services - 7.9%  

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A

    280,147        22,128,811  

FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (A)

    157,508        33,179,060  

Global Payments, Inc.

    293,926        32,769,810  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

    522,906        102,761,487  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (A)

    430,565        35,853,148  
    

 

 

 
       226,692,316  
    

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 1.3%  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

    181,626        37,622,010  
    

 

 

 
Machinery - 3.5%  

Gardner Denver Holdings, Inc. (A)

    473,415        13,913,667  

Illinois Tool Works, Inc.

    178,898        24,784,529  

Middleby Corp. (A) (B)

    149,232        15,582,805  

Nordson Corp.

    161,480        20,735,647  

Snap-on, Inc.

    156,246        25,111,857  
    

 

 

 
       100,128,505  
    

 

 

 
Media - 1.8%  

Comcast Corp., Class A

    1,590,191        52,174,167  
    

 

 

 
Multiline Retail - 1.3%  

Dollar Tree, Inc. (A)

    431,253        36,656,505  
    

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 0.8%  

Continental Resources, Inc. (A)

    369,576        23,933,742  
    

 

 

 
Personal Products - 1.0%  

Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., Class A

    196,042        27,973,233  
    

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals - 1.8%  

Allergan PLC

    155,883        25,988,814  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    467,149        25,852,025  
    

 

 

 
       51,840,839  
    

 

 

 
Professional Services - 1.2%  

Equifax, Inc.

    119,790        14,986,927  

IHS Markit, Ltd. (A)

    383,671        19,793,587  
    

 

 

 
       34,780,514  
    

 

 

 
Road & Rail - 1.5%  

JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc.

    174,792        21,245,968  

Norfolk Southern Corp.

    144,238        21,761,187  
    

 

 

 
       43,007,155  
    

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 3.3%  

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (A) (B)

    1,678,504        25,160,775  

Lam Research Corp.

    142,853        24,692,141  

Micron Technology, Inc. (A)

    464,052        24,334,887  
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    2


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

     Shares      Value  
COMMON STOCKS (continued)  
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (continued)  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (A)

    910,220        $   20,238,742  
    

 

 

 
       94,426,545  
    

 

 

 
Software - 10.6%  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (A)

    206,335        50,306,536  

Guidewire Software, Inc. (A)

    244,594        21,715,055  

Microsoft Corp.

    954,803        94,153,124  

salesforce.com, Inc. (A)

    396,002        54,014,673  

ServiceNow, Inc. (A)

    151,067        26,054,526  

SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.

    479,046        24,862,487  

Workday, Inc., Class A (A)

    271,650        32,902,248  
    

 

 

 
       304,008,649  
    

 

 

 
Specialty Retail - 1.4%  

TJX Cos., Inc.

    411,688        39,184,464  
    

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 6.9%  

Apple, Inc.

    864,550        160,036,851  

NetApp, Inc.

    472,474        37,103,383  
    

 

 

 
       197,140,234  
    

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 4.6%  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    819,472        65,295,529  

Under Armour, Inc., Class C (A) (B)

    1,279,597        26,973,905  

VF Corp.

    481,314        39,236,717  
    

 

 

 
       131,506,151  
    

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks
(Cost $2,045,783,902)

 

     2,853,442,611  
    

 

 

 
     Shares      Value  
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 2.9%  

State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust - Government Money Market Portfolio, 1.93% (C)

    83,493,238        $   83,493,238  
    

 

 

 

Total Securities Lending Collateral
(Cost $83,493,238)

 

     83,493,238  
    

 

 

 
     Principal      Value  
REPURCHASE AGREEMENT - 0.8%  

Fixed Income Clearing Corp., 0.90% (C), dated 06/29/2018, to be repurchased at $23,058,446 on 07/02/2018. Collateralized by a U.S. Government Obligation, 0.13%, due 04/15/2022, and with a value of $23,518,750.

    $  23,056,717        23,056,717  
    

 

 

 

Total Repurchase Agreement
(Cost $23,056,717)

 

     23,056,717  
    

 

 

 

Total Investments
(Cost $2,152,333,857)

 

     2,959,992,566  

Net Other Assets (Liabilities) - (3.7)%

 

     (105,029,203
    

 

 

 

Net Assets - 100.0%

       $  2,854,963,363  
    

 

 

 
 

 

SECURITY VALUATION:

 

Valuation Inputs (D)

 

     Level 1 -
Unadjusted
Quoted Prices
    Level 2 -
Other Significant
Observable Inputs
    Level 3 -
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
    Value  

ASSETS

       

Investments

       

Common Stocks

  $ 2,853,442,611     $     $     $ 2,853,442,611  

Securities Lending Collateral

    83,493,238                   83,493,238  

Repurchase Agreement

          23,056,717             23,056,717  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Investments

  $ 2,936,935,849     $ 23,056,717     $     $ 2,959,992,566  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

FOOTNOTES TO SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS:

 

(A)    Non-income producing securities.
(B)    All or a portion of the securities are on loan. The total value of all securities on loan is $81,192,230. The amount of securities on loan indicated may not correspond with the securities on loan identified because securities with pending sales are in the process of recall from the brokers.
(C)    Rates disclosed reflect the yields at June 30, 2018.
(D)    The Portfolio recognizes transfers between Levels at the end of the reporting period. There were no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3 during the period ended June 30, 2018. Please reference the Security Valuation section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding security valuation and pricing inputs.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    3


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Assets:

  

Investments, at value (cost $2,129,277,140)
(including securities loaned of $81,192,230)

   $ 2,936,935,849  

Repurchase agreement, at value (cost $23,056,717)

     23,056,717  

Receivables and other assets:

  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

     76,371  

Investments sold

     4,253,954  

Interest

     576  

Dividends

     556,729  

Tax reclaims

     15,520  

Net income from securities lending

     14,370  

Prepaid expenses

     9,601  
  

 

 

 

Total assets

     2,964,919,687  
  

 

 

 

Liabilities:

  

Payables and other liabilities:

  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

     21,101,160  

Investments purchased

     3,487,361  

Investment management fees

     1,547,366  

Distribution and service fees

     49,672  

Transfer agent costs

     5,612  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     9,186  

Audit and tax fees

     32,200  

Custody fees

     13,250  

Legal fees

     27,796  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     158,212  

Other

     31,271  

Collateral for securities on loan

     83,493,238  
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     109,956,324  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 2,854,963,363  
  

 

 

 

Net assets consist of:

  

Capital stock ($0.01 par value)

   $ 889,752  

Additional paid-in capital

     1,663,039,318  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

     15,534,536  

Accumulated net realized gain (loss)

     367,841,048  

Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     807,658,709  
  

 

 

 

Net assets

   $ 2,854,963,363  
  

 

 

 

Net assets by class:

  

Initial Class

   $   2,608,743,385  

Service Class

     246,219,978  

Shares outstanding:

  

Initial Class

     81,138,427  

Service Class

     7,836,770  

Net asset value and offering price per share:

  

Initial Class

   $ 32.15  

Service Class

     31.42  

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the period ended June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

 

Investment Income:

  

Dividend income

   $ 11,972,924  

Interest income

     79,368  

Net income (loss) from securities lending

     143,099  
  

 

 

 

Total investment income

     12,195,391  
  

 

 

 

Expenses:

  

Investment management fees

     9,332,864  

Distribution and service fees:

  

Service Class

     300,674  

Transfer agent costs

     19,623  

Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees

     44,096  

Audit and tax fees

     30,572  

Custody fees

     104,673  

Legal fees

     81,090  

Printing and shareholder reports fees

     79,209  

Other

     36,000  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

     10,028,801  
  

 

 

 

Net investment income (loss)

     2,166,590  
  

 

 

 

Net realized gain (loss) on:

  

Investments

     125,200,505  
  

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:

  

Investments

     138,908,798  
  

 

 

 

Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss)

     264,109,303  
  

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

   $   266,275,893  
  

 

 

 
 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    4


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

For the period and year ended:

 

    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31, 2017  

From operations:

 

Net investment income (loss)

  $ 2,166,590     $ 12,267,033  

Net realized gain (loss)

    125,200,505       243,501,927  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

    138,908,798       418,571,363  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    266,275,893       674,340,323  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income:

   

Initial Class

          (10,603,196

Service Class

          (409,765
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net investment income

          (11,012,961
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net realized gains:

   

Initial Class

          (60,001,942

Service Class

          (4,770,103
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions from net realized gains

          (64,772,045
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (75,785,006
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions:

 

Proceeds from shares sold:

   

Initial Class

    10,242,285       26,871,606  

Service Class

    4,794,182       38,339,156  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    15,036,467       65,210,762  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          70,605,138  

Service Class

          5,179,868  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          75,785,006  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cost of shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (152,869,009     (401,381,609

Service Class

    (19,946,487     (26,014,401
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (172,815,496     (427,396,010
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital share transactions

    (157,779,029     (286,400,242
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    108,496,864       312,155,075  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net assets:

   

Beginning of period/year

    2,746,466,499       2,434,311,424  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period/year

  $   2,854,963,363     $   2,746,466,499  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

  $ 15,534,536     $ 13,367,946  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital share transactions - shares:

 

Shares issued:

   

Initial Class

    296,688       1,005,905  

Service Class

    153,849       1,484,670  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    450,537       2,490,575  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares reinvested:

   

Initial Class

          2,682,566  

Service Class

          200,926  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
          2,883,492  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares redeemed:

   

Initial Class

    (4,891,558     (14,919,012

Service Class

    (663,047     (998,825
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (5,554,605     (15,917,837
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding:

   

Initial Class

    (4,594,870     (11,230,541

Service Class

    (509,198     686,771  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
    (5,104,068     (10,543,770
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    5


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Initial Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 29.25     $ 23.30     $ 23.71     $ 33.82     $ 31.84     $ 24.29  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    0.03       0.13 (B)       0.13 (B)(C)       0.15 (B)       0.20 (B)       0.24  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    2.87       6.59       0.56       1.60       3.27       7.61  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    2.90       6.72       0.69       1.75       3.47       7.85  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.12     (0.10     (0.26     (0.30     (0.30

Net realized gains

          (0.65     (1.00     (11.60     (1.19      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.77     (1.10     (11.86     (1.49     (0.30
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 32.15     $ 29.25     $ 23.30     $ 23.71     $ 33.82     $ 31.84  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    9.91 %(E)      29.20     2.81     6.85     11.10     32.46
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   2,608,743     $   2,507,627     $   2,259,537     $   1,803,732     $   2,210,278     $   2,455,635  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.70 %(G)      0.70 %(F)      0.70 %(F)      0.71 %(F)      0.74 %(F)      0.77

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.70 %(G)      0.70 %(F)      0.69 %(C)(F)      0.71 %(F)      0.74 %(F)      0.77

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.18 %(B)(G)      0.48 %(B)      0.56 %(B)(C)      0.50 %(B)      0.62 %(B)      0.85

Portfolio turnover rate

    13 %(E)      34 %(H)      46 %(H)      37 %(H)      112 %(H)      57

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

For a share outstanding during the period and years indicated:

 

    Service Class  
    June 30, 2018
(unaudited)
    December 31,
2017
    December 31,
2016
    December 31,
2015
    December 31,
2014
    December 31,
2013
 

Net asset value, beginning of period/year

  $ 28.62     $ 22.82     $ 23.25     $ 33.38     $ 31.45     $ 23.99  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investment operations:

 

Net investment income (loss) (A)

    (0.01     0.05 (B)       0.07 (B)(C)       0.07 (B)       0.12 (B)       0.16  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    2.81       6.46       0.54       1.58       3.22       7.52  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total investment operations

    2.80       6.51       0.61       1.65       3.34       7.68  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends and/or distributions to shareholders:

 

Net investment income

          (0.06     (0.04     (0.18     (0.22     (0.22

Net realized gains

          (0.65     (1.00     (11.60     (1.19      
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and/or distributions to shareholders

          (0.71     (1.04     (11.78     (1.41     (0.22
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period/year

  $ 31.42     $ 28.62     $ 22.82     $ 23.25     $ 33.38     $ 31.45  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (D)

    9.78 %(E)      28.86     2.54     6.61     10.83     32.13
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Ratio and supplemental data:

 

Net assets end of period/year (000’s)

  $   246,220     $   238,839     $   174,774     $   178,172     $   156,696     $   145,815  

Expenses to average net assets

 

Excluding waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.95 %(G)      0.95 %(F)      0.95 %(F)      0.96 %(F)      0.99 %(F)      1.02

Including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture

    0.95 %(G)      0.95 %(F)      0.94 %(C)(F)      0.96 %(F)      0.99 %(F)      1.02

Net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    (0.07 )%(B)(G)      0.21 %(B)      0.29 %(B)(C)      0.25 %(B)      0.36 %(B)      0.59

Portfolio turnover rate

    13 %(E)      34 %(H)      46 %(H)      37 %(H)      112 %(H)      57

 

(A)    Calculated based on average number of shares outstanding.
(B)    Recognition of net investment income by the Portfolio is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(C)    Please reference the Custody Out-of-Pocket Expense section of the Notes to Financial Statements for more information regarding the reimbursement of custody fees. The amount of the reimbursement on a per share basis was immaterial to the class. The Expenses to average net assets including waiver and/or reimbursement and recapture ratio, and Net investment income (loss) to average net assets ratio would have been 0.01% higher and 0.01% lower, respectively, had the custodian not reimbursed the Portfolio.
(D)    Total return reflects all Portfolio expenses and includes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains; it does not reflect the charges and deductions under the policies or annuity contracts.
(E)    Not annualized.
(F)    Does not include expenses of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.
(G)    Annualized.
(H)    Does not include portfolio activity of the investment companies and/or ETFs in which the Portfolio invests.

 

The Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of this report.

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    6


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION

 

Transamerica Series Trust (“TST”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). TST applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance. TST serves as a funding vehicle for variable life insurance, variable annuity, and group annuity products. Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (the “Portfolio”) is a series of TST and is classified as diversified under the 1940 Act. The Portfolio currently offers two classes of shares, Initial Class and Service Class.

The only shareholders of the Portfolio are affiliated separate accounts, affiliated asset allocation portfolios, and contract holders of the variable life and annuity contracts. For ease of reference, shareholders and contract holders are collectively referred to in this report as “shareholders.”

This report must be accompanied or preceded by the Portfolio’s current prospectus, which contains additional information about the Portfolio, including risks, as well as investment objectives and strategies.

Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) serves as investment manager for the Portfolio pursuant to an investment management agreement. TAM provides continuous and regular investment management services to the Portfolio. TAM supervises the Portfolio’s investments, conducts its investment program and provides supervisory, compliance and administrative services to the Portfolio.

TAM currently acts as a “manager of managers” and hires sub-advisers to furnish day-to-day investment advice and recommendations. TAM may, in the future, determine to provide all aspects of the day-to-day management of the Portfolio without the use of a sub-adviser. When acting as a manager of managers, TAM provides investment management services that include, without limitation, the design and development of the Portfolio and its investment strategies and the ongoing review and evaluation of those investment strategies including recommending changes in strategy where it believes appropriate or advisable; the selection of one or more sub-advisers for the Portfolio employing a combination of quantitative and qualitative screens, research, analysis and due diligence; negotiation of sub-advisory agreements and fees; oversight and monitoring of sub-advisers and recommending changes to sub-advisers where it believes appropriate or advisable; recommending portfolio combinations and liquidations where it believes appropriate or advisable; selection and oversight of transition managers, as needed; regular supervision of the Portfolio’s investments; regular review and evaluation of sub-adviser performance; daily monitoring of the sub-advisers’ buying and selling of securities for the Portfolio; regular review of holdings; ongoing trade oversight and analysis; regular monitoring to ensure adherence to investment process; regular calls and periodic on-site visits with sub-advisers; portfolio construction and asset allocation when using multiple sub-advisers for a Portfolio; risk management oversight and analysis; oversight of negotiation of investment documentation and agreements; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the valuation process; periodic due diligence reviews of pricing vendors and vendor methodology; design, development, implementation and regular monitoring of the compliance process; respond to regulatory inquiries and determine appropriate litigation strategy, as needed; review of proxies voted by sub-advisers; oversight of preparation, and review, of materials for meetings of the Portfolio’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), participation in these meetings and preparation of regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation, and review, of prospectuses, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; oversight of other service providers to the Portfolio, such as the custodian, the transfer agent, the Portfolio’s independent accounting firm and legal counsel; supervision of the performance of recordkeeping and shareholder relations functions for the Portfolio; and oversight of cash management services. TAM uses a variety of quantitative and qualitative tools to carry out its investment management services. TAM, not the Portfolio, is responsible for paying the sub-adviser(s) for their services, and sub-advisory fees are TAM’s expense.

TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. These services include performing certain administrative services for the Portfolio and supervising and overseeing the administrative, clerical, recordkeeping and bookkeeping services provided to the Portfolio by State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), to whom TAM has outsourced the provision of certain services as described below: to the extent agreed upon by TAM and the Portfolio from time to time, monitoring and verifying the custodian’s daily calculation of Net Asset Values (“NAV”); shareholder relations functions; compliance services; valuation services; assisting in due diligence and in the oversight and monitoring of certain activities of sub-advisers and certain aspects of Portfolio investments; assisting with Portfolio combinations and liquidations; oversight of the preparation and filing, and review, of all returns and reports, in connection with federal, state and local taxes; oversight and review of regulatory reporting; supervising and coordinating the Portfolio’s custodian and dividend disbursing agent and monitoring their services to the Portfolio; assisting the Portfolio in preparing reports to shareholders; acting as liaison with the Portfolio’s independent public accountants and providing, upon request, analyses, fiscal year summaries and other audit related services; assisting in the preparation of agendas and supporting documents for and minutes of meetings of trustees and committees of trustees; assisting in the preparation of regular communications with the trustees; and providing personnel and office space, telephones and other office equipment as necessary in order for TAM to perform supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    7


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

In preparing the Portfolio’s financial statements in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”), estimates or assumptions (which could differ from actual results) may be used that affect reported amounts and disclosures. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio.

Foreign currency denominated investments: The accounting records of the Portfolio are maintained in U.S. dollars. Securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the closing exchange rate each day. The cost of foreign securities purchased and any realized gains or losses are translated at the prevailing exchange rates in effect on the date of the respective transaction. The Portfolio combines fluctuations from currency exchange rates and fluctuations in value when computing net realized and unrealized gains or losses from investments.

Net foreign currency gains and losses resulting from changes in exchange rates include, foreign currency fluctuations between trade date and settlement date of investment security transactions, gains and losses on forward foreign currency contracts, and the difference between the receivable amounts of interest and dividends recorded in the accounting records in U.S. dollars and the amounts actually received.

Foreign currency denominated assets may involve risks not typically associated with domestic transactions. These risks include revaluation of currencies, adverse fluctuations in foreign currency values, and possible adverse political, social, and economic developments, including those particular to a specific industry, country or region.

Security transactions and investment income: Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Security gains and losses are calculated on a first-in, first-out basis. Dividend income, if any, is recorded on the ex-dividend date or, in the case of foreign securities, as soon as the Portfolio is informed of the ex-dividend dates, net of foreign taxes. Interest income, if any, including accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums, is recorded on the accrual basis commencing on the settlement date.

Multiple class operations, income, and expenses: Income, non-class specific expenses, and realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated to each class daily based upon net assets. Each class bears its own specific expenses in addition to the allocated non-class specific expenses.

Distributions to shareholders: Distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date and are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

Foreign taxes: The Portfolio may be subject to taxes imposed by the countries in which it invests, with respect to its investments in issuers existing or operating in such countries. The Portfolio may also be subject to foreign taxes on income, gains on investments, or currency repatriation, a portion of which may be recoverable. The Portfolio accrues such taxes and recoveries as applicable when the related income or capital gains are earned or unrealized, and based upon the current interpretation of tax rules and regulations that exist in the markets in which the Portfolio invests. Some countries require governmental approval for the repatriation of investment income, capital, or the proceeds of sales earned by foreign investors. In addition, if there is deterioration in a country’s balance of payments or for other reasons, a country may impose temporary restrictions of foreign capital remittances abroad.

Commission recapture: The sub-adviser, to the extent consistent with the best execution and usual commission rate policies and practices, may elect to place security transactions of the Portfolio with broker/dealers with which TST has established a commission recapture program. A commission recapture program is any arrangement under which a broker/dealer applies a portion of the commissions received by such broker/dealer on the security transactions to the Portfolio. In no event will commissions, paid by the Portfolio, be used to pay expenses that would otherwise be borne by any other portfolios within TST, or by any other party.

Commissions recaptured are included within Net realized gain (loss) within the Statement of Operations. For the period ended June 30, 2018, commissions recaptured are $751.

Indemnification: In the normal course of business, the Portfolio enters into contracts that contain a variety of representations that provide general indemnifications. The Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Portfolio and/or its affiliates that have not yet occurred. However, based on experience, the Portfolio expects the risk of loss to be remote.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    8


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION

 

All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value. The Portfolio values its investments at the official close of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) each day the NYSE is open for business.

The Portfolio utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis. GAAP establishes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels (“Levels”) of inputs of the fair value hierarchy are defined as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

Level 2—Inputs, other than quoted prices included in Level 1, which are observable, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates, and similar data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs, which may include TAM’s internal valuation committee’s (the “Valuation Committee”) own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the sub-adviser, issuer, analysts, or the appropriate stock exchange (for exchange-traded securities), analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents and, if necessary, available information concerning other securities in similar circumstances.

The inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different Levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the Level in the fair value hierarchy that is assigned to the fair value measurement of a security is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Certain investments that are measured at fair value using NAV per share, or its equivalent, using the “practical expedient” have not been classified in the fair value Levels. The hierarchy classification of inputs used to value the Portfolio’s investments at June 30, 2018, is disclosed within the Security Valuation section of the Schedule of Investments.

Under supervision and approval of the Board, TAM provides day-to-day valuation functions. TAM formed the Valuation Committee to monitor and implement the fair valuation policies and procedures as approved by the Board. These policies and procedures are reviewed at least annually by the Board. The Valuation Committee, among other tasks, monitors for when market quotations are not readily available or are unreliable and determines in good faith the fair value of the portfolio investments. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, securities may be valued, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board, with reference to other instruments or indices. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these instruments may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

The Valuation Committee may employ a market-based approach which may use related or comparable assets or liabilities, recent transactions, market multiples, book values, and other relevant information for the security to determine the fair value of the security. An income-based valuation approach may also be used in which the anticipated future cash flows of the security are discounted to calculate fair value. Discounts may also be applied due to the nature or duration of any restrictions on the disposition of the securities. When the Portfolio uses fair value methods that rely on significant unobservable inputs to determine a security’s value, the Valuation Committee will choose the method that is believed to accurately reflect fair value. These securities are categorized in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Valuation Committee reviews fair value measurements on a regular and ad hoc basis and may, as deemed appropriate, update the security valuations as well as the fair valuation guidelines. The Board reviews and considers Valuation Committee determinations at its regularly scheduled meetings.

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is generally greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3. Due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation, the Valuation Committee’s determination of values may differ significantly from values that would have been realized had a ready market for investments existed, and the differences could be material. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for calibrating these valuation approaches, including a regular review of valuation methodologies, key inputs and assumptions, transactional back-testing, and reviews of any market related activity.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    9


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

3. SECURITY VALUATION (continued)

 

Fair value measurements: Descriptions of the valuation techniques applied to the Portfolio’s significant categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows:

Equity securities: Securities are stated at the last reported sales price or closing price on the day of valuation taken from the primary exchange where the security is principally traded. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized in Level 2 or Level 3 if inputs are unobservable.

Securities lending collateral: Securities lending collateral is invested in a money market fund which is valued at the NAV of the underlying securities and no valuation adjustments are applied. Securities lending collateral is categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Repurchase agreements: Repurchase agreements are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. To the extent the inputs are observable and timely, the values are generally categorized in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS

The Portfolio may engage in borrowing transactions as a means of raising cash to satisfy redemption requests, for other temporary or emergency purposes or, to the extent permitted by its investment policies, to raise additional cash to be invested in other securities or instruments. When the Portfolio invests borrowing proceeds in other securities, the Portfolio will bear the risk that the market value of the securities in which such proceeds are invested goes down and is insufficient to repay the borrowed proceeds. The Portfolio may borrow on a secured or on an unsecured basis. If the Portfolio enters into a secured borrowing arrangement, a portion of the Portfolio’s assets will be used as collateral. The 1940 Act requires the Portfolio to maintain asset coverage of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings. Asset coverage means the ratio that the value of the Portfolio’s total assets, minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings. Although complying with this requirement has the effect of limiting the amount that the Portfolio may borrow, it does not otherwise mitigate the risks of entering into borrowing transactions.

Interfund lending: The Portfolio, along with other funds and portfolios advised by TAM, may participate in an interfund lending program pursuant to exemptive relief granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 18, 2017. This program allows the Portfolio to lend to and borrow from other funds and portfolios advised by TAM. Interfund lending transactions are subject to the conditions of the exemptive relief which place limits on the amount of lending or borrowing the Portfolio may participate in under the program. Interest earned or paid on an interfund lending transaction will be based on the average of certain current market rates. As of June 30, 2018, the Portfolio has not utilized the program.

Repurchase agreements: In a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed-upon price on an agreed-upon date. Securities purchased subject to a repurchase agreement are held at the Portfolio’s custodian, or designated sub-custodian related to tri-party repurchase agreements, and, pursuant to the terms of the repurchase agreement, must be collateralized by securities with an aggregate market value greater than or equal to 100% of the resale price. The Portfolio will bear the risk of value fluctuations until the securities can be sold and may encounter delays and incur costs in liquidating the securities. In the event of bankruptcy or insolvency of the seller, delays and costs may be incurred.

Repurchase agreements are subject to netting agreements, which are agreements between the Portfolio and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Portfolio, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented within the Schedule of Investments, and as part of Repurchase agreements, at value within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities are shown on a gross basis. The value of the related collateral for each repurchase agreement, as reflected within the Schedule of Investments, exceeds the value of each repurchase agreement at June 30, 2018.

Repurchase agreements at June 30, 2018, if any, are included within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Securities lending: Securities are lent to qualified financial institutions and brokers. State Street serves as securities lending agent to the Portfolio pursuant to a Securities Lending Agreement. The lending of securities exposes the Portfolio to risks such as, the borrowers may fail to return the loaned securities, the borrowers may not be able to provide additional collateral, the Portfolio may experience delays in recovery of the loaned securities or delays in access to collateral, or the Portfolio may experience losses related to the investment collateral. To minimize certain risks, loan counterparties pledge cash collateral with a value of at least 102% of the current value of the loaned securities for securities traded on U.S. exchanges and a value of at least 105% for all other securities loaned. The lending agent has agreed to indemnify the Portfolio in the case of default of any securities borrower.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    10


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

4. BORROWINGS AND OTHER FINANCING TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Cash collateral received is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust—Government Money Market Portfolio, a money market mutual fund registered under the 1940 Act. By lending securities, the Portfolio seeks to increase its net investment income through the receipt of interest and fees. Such income is reflected separately within the Statement of Operations. Net income from securities lending within the Statement of Operations is net of fees and rebates earned by the lending agent for its services.

The value of loaned securities and related collateral outstanding at June 30, 2018, if any, are shown on a gross basis within the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table reflects a breakdown of transactions accounted for as secured borrowings, the gross obligation by the type of collateral pledged, and the remaining contractual maturity of those transactions as of June 30, 2018.

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements  
     Overnight and
Continuous
    Less Than
30 Days
    Between
30 & 90 Days
    Greater Than
90 Days
    Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

         

Common Stocks

  $ 83,493,238     $     $     $     $ 83,493,238  

Total Borrowings

  $   83,493,238     $     $     $     $   83,493,238  
                                         

5. RISK FACTOR

Investing in the Portfolio may involve certain risks. Set forth below is a summary of certain key risks related to the Portfolio’s trading activity. Please see the Portfolio’s prospectuses for a more complete discussion of these and other risks of investing in the Portfolio.

Growth risk: Returns on growth stocks may not move in tandem with returns on other categories of stocks or the market as a whole. Growth stocks typically are particularly sensitive to market movements because their market prices tend to reflect future expectations. When it appears those expectations may not be met, the prices of growth securities typically fall. Growth stocks as a group may be out of favor and underperform the overall equity market for a long period of time, for example, while the market favors “value” stocks.

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS

TST serves as a funding vehicle for certain affiliated asset allocation portfolios and certain affiliated separate accounts of Transamerica Premier Life Insurance Company (“TPLIC”), Transamerica Life Insurance Company, Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company, and Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company.

TAM, the Portfolio’s investment manager, is directly owned by TPLIC and AUSA Holding Company (“AUSA”), both of which are indirect, wholly owned subsidiaries of Aegon NV. TPLIC is owned by Commonwealth General Corporation (“Commonwealth”) and Aegon USA, LLC (“Aegon USA”). Commonwealth and AUSA are wholly owned by Aegon USA. Aegon USA is wholly owned by Aegon US Holding Corporation, which is wholly owned by Transamerica Corporation (DE). Transamerica Corporation (DE) is wholly owned by The Aegon Trust, which is wholly owned by Aegon International B.V., which is wholly owned by Aegon NV, a Netherlands corporation, and a publicly traded international insurance group.

Transamerica Fund Services, Inc. (“TFS”) is the Portfolio’s transfer agent. Transamerica Capital Inc. (“TCI”) is the Portfolio’s distributor/principal underwriter. TAM, TFS, and TCI are affiliates of Aegon NV.

Certain officers and trustees of the Portfolio are also officers and/or trustees of TAM, TFS and TCI. No interested trustee, who is deemed an interested person due to current or former service with TAM or an affiliate of TAM, receives compensation from the Portfolio.

Investment management fees: TAM serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager, performing administration as well as investment advisory services. TAM renders investment advisory, supervisory, and administration services under an investment management agreement and the Portfolio pays a single management fee, which is reflected in Investment management fees within the Statement of Operations.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    11


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

The Portfolio pays a management fee to TAM based on daily Average Net Assets (“ANA”) at the following rates:

 

Breakpoints    Rate  

First $150 million

     0.730

Over $150 million up to $650 million

     0.700  

Over $650 million up to $1.15 billion

     0.680  

Over $1.15 billion up to $2 billion

     0.655  

Over $2 billion up to $3 billion

     0.640  

Over $3 billion up to $4 billion

     0.630  

Over $4 billion

     0.610  

TAM has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse Portfolio expenses to the extent that the total operating expenses excluding, as applicable, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, reorganization expenses and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Portfolio’s business, exceed the following stated annual operating expense limits to the Portfolio’s daily ANA. The expenses waived and/or reimbursed, if any, are included in Expenses waived and/or reimbursed within the Statement of Operations.

 

      Operating
Expense Limit
     Operating
Expense Limit
Effective Through

Initial Class

     0.85    May 1, 2019

Service Class

     1.10      May 1, 2019

TAM is entitled to recapture expenses accrued by the Portfolio for fees waived and/or reimbursed during any of the previous thirty-six months if on any day or month the estimated annualized Portfolio operating expenses are less than the stated annual operating expense limit or any other lower limit then in effect. Amounts recaptured, if any, by TAM for the period ended June 30, 2018 are disclosed in Recapture of previously waived and/or reimbursed fees within the Statement of Operations.

As of June 30, 2018, there are no amounts available for recapture by TAM.

Distribution and service fees: TST has a distribution plan (“Distribution Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, TST entered into a distribution agreement with TCI as the Portfolio’s distributor.

The Distribution Plan requires TST to pay distribution fees to TCI as compensation for various distribution activities, not as reimbursement for specific expenses. Under the Distribution Plan and distribution agreement, TCI, on behalf of the Portfolio, is authorized to pay various service providers, as direct payment for expenses incurred in connection with distribution of the Portfolio’s shares.

The fee on the Service Class shares is paid to the insurance companies for providing services and account maintenance for the policyholders who invest in the variable insurance products which invest in the Service Class shares. TCI has determined that it will not seek payment for the distribution expenses incurred by the Portfolio with respect to the Initial Class shares before May 1, 2019. Prior to TCI seeking distribution expenses on Initial Class shares, policy and contract owners will be notified in advance. The Portfolio will pay fees relating to Service Class shares. The distribution and service fees are included in Distribution and service fees within the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio is authorized under the Distribution Plan to pay fees to TCI based on daily ANA of each class up to the following annual rates:

 

Class    Rate  

Initial Class

     0.15

Service Class

     0.25  

Transfer agent costs: TFS provides transfer agency services under an intercompany agreement with TAM. The Portfolio pays no separate transfer agent fee but does pay certain transfer agency related costs to TAM. For the period ended June 30, 2018, costs paid to TAM by the Portfolio are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Operations and the costs payable to TAM are referred to as Transfer agent costs and included within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    12


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

At June 30, 2018

(unaudited)

6. FEES AND OTHER AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

Deferred compensation plan: Under a non-qualified deferred compensation plan effective January 1, 1996, (as amended and restated January 1, 2010), available to the trustees, compensation may be deferred that would otherwise be payable by TST to an independent trustee on a current basis for services rendered as trustee. Deferred compensation amounts will accumulate based on the value of the investment option, as elected by the trustee. Balances pursuant to deferred compensation plan are recorded in Trustees, Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) and deferred compensation fees within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. For the period ended June 30, 2018, amounts included in Trustees, CCO and deferred compensation fees within the Statements of Operations reflect total compensation paid to the independent Board members.

Brokerage commissions: The Portfolio incurred no brokerage commissions on security transactions placed with affiliates of the adviser or sub-advisers for the period ended June 30, 2018.

Cross-trades: The Portfolio is authorized to purchase or sell securities from and to other portfolios within TST or between the Portfolio and other mutual funds or accounts advised by TAM or the sub-adviser, in each case in accordance with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act, when it is in the best interest of each Portfolio participating in the transaction.

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the Portfolio engaged in the following net cross-trade transactions, which resulted in net realized gains/(losses) as follows:

 

Purchases   Sales   Net Realized
Gains/(Losses)

$  14,346,653

  $  —   $  —

7. PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES

For the period ended June 30, 2018, the cost of securities purchased and proceeds from securities sold (excluding short-term securities) are as follows:

 

Purchases of Securities       Sales/Maturities of Securities
Long-Term   U.S. Government        Long-Term   U.S. Government
$  367,505,767   $  —     $  497,514,008   $  —

8. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS

The Portfolio has not made any provision for federal income or excise taxes due to its policy to distribute all of its taxable income and capital gains to its shareholders and otherwise qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. The Portfolio recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. The Portfolio’s tax returns remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities for the three years from the date of filing for federal purposes and four years from the date of filing state purposes. Management has evaluated the Portfolio’s tax provisions taken for all open tax years, and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolio’s financial statements. If applicable, the Portfolio recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in relation to interest and penalties expense in Other within the Statement of Operations. The Portfolio identifies its major tax jurisdictions as U.S. Federal, the state of Colorado, and foreign jurisdictions where the Portfolio makes significant investments; however, the Portfolio is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially in the next twelve months. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

As of June 30, 2018, the approximate cost for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and the aggregate gross/net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of investments (including securities sold short and derivatives, if any) were as follows:

 

Cost   Gross
Appreciation
  Gross
(Depreciation)
  Net Appreciation
(Depreciation)
$  2,152,333,857   $  839,648,156   $  (31,989,447)   $  807,658,709

9. CUSTODY OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE

In December 2015, State Street, the Portfolio’s custodian, identified inconsistencies in the way in which clients were invoiced for categories of expenses, particularly those deemed out-of-pocket costs, during an 18-year period going back to 1998. The issue was the result of inaccurate billing rates that were not subsequently reviewed or adjusted. The amount of the difference in what was charged and what should have been charged, plus interest, was paid back to the Portfolio in September 2016 as a reimbursement. Please reference the Financial Highlights for additional information in regards to the per share impact.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    13


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL

 

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Trustees” or the “Board”) held on June 21-22, 2018, the Board considered the renewal of the management agreement (the “Management Agreement”) between Transamerica Asset Management, Inc. (“TAM”) and Transamerica Series Trust, on behalf of Transamerica WMC US Growth VP (the “Portfolio”). The Board also considered the renewal of the investment sub-advisory agreement (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement” and, together with the Management Agreement, the “Agreements”) for the Portfolio between TAM and Wellington Management Company, LLP (the “Sub-Adviser”).

Following its review and consideration, the Board determined that the terms of the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement were reasonable and that the renewal of each of the Agreements was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders invested in the Portfolio. The Board, including the independent members of the Board (the “Independent Trustees”), unanimously approved the renewal of each of the Agreements through June 30, 2019.

Prior to reaching their decision, the Trustees requested and received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser certain information. They then reviewed such information as they deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Agreements, including information they had previously received from TAM and the Sub-Adviser as part of their regular oversight of the Portfolio, and knowledge they gained over time through meeting with TAM and the Sub-Adviser. Among other materials, the Trustees considered comparative fee, expense and performance information prepared by Broadridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent provider of mutual fund performance information, as well as fee, expense and profitability information prepared by TAM. To the extent applicable, the Trustees considered information about fees and performance of comparable funds and/or accounts managed by each Sub-Adviser. In their review, the Trustees also sought to identify instances in which the Portfolio’s performance, fees, total expenses and/or profitability appeared to be outliers within its respective peer group or other comparative metrics, and sought to understand the reasons for such comparative positions.

In their deliberations, the Independent Trustees met privately without representatives of TAM or the Sub-Adviser present and were represented throughout the process by their independent legal counsel. In considering the proposed continuation of the Agreements, the Trustees evaluated and weighed a number of considerations that they believed to be relevant in light of the legal advice furnished to them by counsel, including independent legal counsel, and made a decision in the exercise of their own business judgment. They based their decisions on the considerations discussed below, among others, although they did not identify any particular consideration or item of information that was controlling of their decisions, and each Trustee may have attributed different weights to the various factors.

Nature, Extent and Quality of the Services Provided

The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by TAM and the Sub-Adviser to the Portfolio in the past and the services anticipated to be provided in the future. The Board also considered the investment approach for the Portfolio; the experience, capability and integrity of TAM’s senior management; the financial resources of TAM; TAM’s management oversight process; TAM’s and the Sub-Adviser’s responsiveness to any questions by the Trustees; and the professional qualifications and compensation program of the portfolio management team of the Sub-Adviser. The Trustees noted that they receive, on a quarterly basis, an execution analysis from Capital Institutional Services, Inc. (CAPIS), an independent provider of trade analyses, for the Sub-Adviser and a comparison of trading results against a peer universe of managers.

The Board also considered the continuous and regular investment management and other services provided by TAM, when acting as a manager of managers, for the portion of the management fee it retains after payment of the sub-advisory fees. The Board noted that the investment management and other services provided by TAM include the design, development and ongoing review and evaluation of the Portfolio and its investment strategy; the selection, oversight and monitoring of one or more investment sub-advisers to perform certain duties with respect to the Portfolio; ongoing portfolio trading oversight and analysis; risk management oversight and analysis; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the valuation of Portfolio investments; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a compliance program for the Portfolio; design, development, implementation and ongoing review and evaluation of a process for the voting of proxies and exercise of rights to consent to corporate action for Portfolio investments; participation in Board meetings and oversight of preparation of materials for the Board, including materials for Board meetings and regular communications with the Board; oversight of preparation of the Portfolio’s prospectus, statement of additional information, shareholder reports and other disclosure materials and regulatory filings for the Portfolio; and ongoing cash management services. The Board considered that TAM’s investment management services also include the provision of supervisory and administrative services to the Portfolio. The Board also noted that TAM, as part of the services it provides to all Transamerica mutual funds, including the Portfolio, oversees the services provided by the funds’ custodian, transfer agent, independent accountant and legal counsel and supervises the performance of the recordkeeping and contract holder functions of the funds.

Investment Performance

In addition, the Board considered the short- and longer-term performance of the Portfolio in light of its investment objective, policies and strategies, including relative performance against (i) a peer universe of comparable mutual funds, as prepared by Broadridge, and (ii) the Portfolio’s benchmark, in each case for various trailing periods ended December 31, 2017. Based on these considerations, the Board determined that TAM and the Sub-Adviser can provide investment and related services that are appropriate in scope and extent in light of the Portfolio’s investment objectives, policies and strategies and operations, the competitive landscape of the investment

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    14


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

company business and investor needs. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s performance are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s performance relative to its peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize performance for the relevant periods in relation to whether it was “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, performance is described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s performance ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise return was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median return).

When considering the Portfolio’s performance, the Trustees considered any representations made by TAM regarding the appropriateness of certain peer groups and benchmarks. They recognized that performance reflects a snapshot of a period as of a specific date, and that consideration of performance data for a different period could generate significantly different performance results. The Trustees also recognized that even longer-term performance can be negatively affected by performance over a short-term period when that short-term performance is significantly below the performance of the comparable benchmark or universe of peer funds.

The Board noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was in line with the median for its peer universe for the past 3-year period and below the median for the past 1-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board also noted that the performance of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio was below its benchmark for the past 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year periods. The Board noted that the Portfolio’s sub-adviser had commenced subadvising the Portfolio on April 9, 2010 and commenced using its current investment strategies on July 1, 2014.

Management and Sub-Advisory Fees and Total Expense Ratio

The Board considered the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio, including information provided by Broadridge comparing the management fee and total expense ratio of the Portfolio to the management fees and total expense ratios of comparable investment companies in both a peer group and broader peer universe compiled by Broadridge. The Board’s conclusions as to the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio are summarized below. In describing the Portfolio’s management fee and total expense ratio relative to its peer group and peer universe, the summary conclusions characterize management fees and total expense ratios for the relevant periods in relation to whether they were “above,” “below” or “in line with” the peer group or peer universe median and do so using quintile rankings prepared by Broadridge. For simplicity, management fees and total expense ratios are described as “above” median if the Portfolio’s management fee or total expense ratio ranked anywhere in the fourth or fifth quintiles, as “below” median if it ranked anywhere in the first or second quintiles, or “in line with” the median if it ranked anywhere in the third quintile (i.e., even if its precise management fee or total expense ratio was somewhat above or somewhat below the precise median management fee or total expense ratio).

The Board also considered the fees charged by the Sub-Adviser for sub-advisory services, as well as the portion of the Portfolio’s management fee retained by TAM following payment of the sub-advisory fee and how the portion of the contractual management fee retained by TAM at a specified asset level compared to the portions retained by other investment advisers managing mutual funds with similar investment strategies as calculated by an independent provider of information.

The Board noted that the Portfolio’s contractual management fee was above the median for its peer group and in line with the median for its peer universe and that the actual total expenses (i.e., expenses reflecting any waivers and/or reimbursements) of Initial Class Shares of the Portfolio were above the median for its peer group and below the median for its peer universe. The Trustees also considered that TAM has entered into an expense limitation arrangement with the Portfolio, which may result in TAM waiving fees for the benefit of contract holders.

On the basis of these considerations, together with the other information it considered, the Board determined that the management and sub-advisory fees to be received by TAM and the Sub-Adviser under the Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreement are reasonable in light of the services provided.

Cost of Services Provided and Level of Profitability

The Board reviewed information provided by TAM about the cost of providing and procuring fund management services, as well as the costs of the provision of administration, transfer agency and other services, to the Portfolio and to Transamerica Series Trust as a whole by TAM and its affiliates. The Board considered the profitability of TAM and its affiliates in providing these services for the Portfolio and Transamerica Series Trust as a whole. The Trustees recognized the competitiveness of the mutual fund industry and the importance of an investment adviser’s long-term profitability, including for maintaining company and management stability and accountability.

The Board also considered the allocation methodology used for calculating the profitability of TAM and its affiliates. The Board noted that the revenue and expense allocation methodology used by TAM to estimate its profitability with respect to its relationship with the Portfolio had been reviewed previously by an independent consultant. The Trustees considered that TAM had not made material changes to this methodology, which had been applied consistently for the Portfolio.

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    15


Transamerica WMC US Growth VP

 

 

MANAGEMENT AND SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT — CONTRACT RENEWAL (continued)

 

With respect to the Sub-Adviser, the Board noted that the sub-advisory fee is the product of arm’s-length negotiation between TAM and the Sub-Adviser, which is not affiliated with TAM, and is paid by TAM and not the Portfolio. As a result, the Board focused on the profitability of TAM and its affiliates with respect to the Portfolio.

Based on this information, the Board determined that the profitability of TAM and its affiliates from their relationships with the Portfolio was not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board considered economies of scale with respect to the management of the Portfolio, whether the Portfolio had appropriately benefited from any economies of scale and whether there was the potential for realization of any future economies of scale. The Board also considered the existence of economies of scale with respect to management of the Transamerica mutual funds overall and the extent to which the Portfolio benefited from any economies of scale. The Board recognized that, as the Portfolio’s assets increase, any economies of scale realized by TAM or the Sub-Adviser may not directly correlate with each other or with any economies of scale that might be realized by the Portfolio. The Board considered the Portfolio’s management fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and also considered the extent to which TAM shared economies of scale, if any, with the Portfolio through its undertakings to limit or reimburse Fund expenses and to invest in maintaining and developing its capabilities and services. The Board also considered the Sub-Adviser’s sub-advisory fee schedule and the existence of breakpoints, if any, and how such breakpoints relate to any breakpoints in the Portfolio’s management fee schedule. The Trustees concluded that the Portfolio’s fee structure reflected an appropriate sharing of any efficiencies or economies of scale to date and noted that they will have the opportunity to periodically reexamine the appropriateness of the management fee payable to TAM and the fee paid to the Sub-Adviser in light of any economies of scale experienced in the future.

Benefits to TAM, its Affiliates and the Sub-Adviser from their Relationships with the Portfolio

The Board considered other benefits derived by TAM, its affiliates, and/or the Sub-Adviser from their relationships with the Portfolio. The Board noted that TAM does not receive benefits from research obtained with commissions paid to broker-dealers for portfolio transactions (“soft dollars”) as a result of its relationship with the Portfolio and that TAM believes that the use of soft dollars by the Sub-Adviser is generally appropriate and in the best interests of the Portfolio. The Board also noted that the Sub-Adviser participates in a brokerage program pursuant to which a portion of brokerage commissions paid by the Portfolio is recaptured for the benefit of the Portfolio and the contract holders, thus limiting the amount of soft dollar arrangements the Sub-Adviser may engage in with respect to the Portfolio’s brokerage transactions.

Other Considerations

The Board noted that TAM has made a substantial commitment to the recruitment and retention of high quality personnel and maintains the financial, compliance and operational resources reasonably necessary to manage the Portfolio in a professional manner that is consistent with the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders. In this regard, the Board favorably considered the procedures and policies TAM has in place to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations and oversee the portfolio management activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Board also noted that TAM has made a significant entrepreneurial commitment and undertaken certain business risks with respect to the management and success of the Portfolio.

Conclusion

After consideration of the factors described above, as well as other factors, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement was in the best interests of the Portfolio and the contract holders and voted to approve the renewal of the Agreements.

 

 

Transamerica Series Trust   Semi-Annual Report 2018

Page    16


 

 

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES AND QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

(unaudited)

A description of Transamerica Series Trust’s (the “Trust”) proxy voting policies and procedures is available in the Statement of Additional Information of the Portfolios, available without charge upon request by calling 1-800-851-9777 (toll free) or on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

In addition, the Portfolios are required to file Form N-PX, with their complete proxy voting records for the 12 months ended June 30th, no later than August 31st of each year. The Form is available without charge: (1) from the Portfolios, upon request by calling 1-800-851-9777; and (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

The Portfolios file their complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarter of each fiscal year on Form N-Q, which is available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Portfolios’ Form N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.

You may also visit the Trust’s website at www.transamericaseriestrust.com for this and other information about the Portfolios and the Trust.

Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents

Every year we send shareholders informative materials such as the Transamerica Series Trust Annual Report, the Transamerica Series Trust Prospectus, and other required documents that keep you informed regarding your Portfolios. Transamerica Series Trust will only send one piece per mailing address, a method that saves your Portfolios money by reducing mailing and printing costs. We will continue to do this unless you tell us not to. To elect to receive individual mailings, simply call a Transamerica Customer Service Representative toll free at 1-888-233-4339, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday-Friday. Your request will take effect within 30 days.

 


 

 

NOTICE OF PRIVACY POLICY

(unaudited)

Your privacy is very important to us. We want you to understand what information we collect and how we use it. We collect and use “nonpublic personal information” in connection with providing our customers with a broad range of financial products and services as effectively and conveniently as possible. We treat nonpublic personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

What Information We Collect and From Whom We Collect It

We may collect nonpublic personal information about you from the following sources:

 

 

Information we receive from you on applications or other forms, such as your name, address, and account number;

 

 

Information about your transactions with us, our affiliates, or others, such as your account balance and purchase/redemption history; and

 

 

Information we receive from non-affiliated third parties, including consumer reporting agencies.

What Information We Disclose and To Whom We Disclose It

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about current or former customers to anyone without their express consent, except as permitted by law. We may disclose the nonpublic personal information we collect, as described above, to persons or companies that perform services on our behalf and to other financial institutions with which we have joint marketing agreements. We will require these companies to protect the confidentiality of your nonpublic personal information and to use it only to perform the services for which we have hired them.

Our Security Procedures

We restrict access to your nonpublic personal information and only allow disclosures to persons and companies as permitted by law to assist in providing products or services to you. We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to protect your nonpublic personal information and to safeguard the disposal of certain consumer information.

If you have any questions about our Privacy Policy, please call 1-888-233-4339 on any business day between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern Time.

Note:        This Privacy Policy applies only to customers that have a direct relationship with us or our affiliates. If you own shares of our funds in the name of a third party such as a bank or broker-dealer, its privacy policy may apply to you instead of ours.

 


PO Box 219945

Kansas City, MO 64121-9945

 

Distributor:

Transamerica Capital, Inc.

    

PO Box 219945

    

Kansas City, MO 64121-9945

 

    

Customer Service: 1-800-851-9777


Item 2:

Code of Ethics.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

 

Item 3:

Audit Committee Financial Experts.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

 

Item 4:

Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

 

Item 5:

Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

 

Item 6:

Investments.

 

  (a)

The schedules of investments are included in the Semi-Annual Report to shareholders 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.

 

Item 8:

Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable.

 

Item 9:

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

Not applicable.

 

Item 10:

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the Registrant’s Board of Trustees that have been implemented since the Registrant last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of this Item.

 

Item 11:

Controls and Procedures.

 

  (a)

The Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer evaluated the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures within 90 days of this filing and have concluded that the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-


  3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”)) are appropriately designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Registrant in the reports that it files on Form N-CSR (a) is accumulated and communicated to the Registrant’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure, and (b) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the rules and forms adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

  (b)

The Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer are aware of no change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 12:

Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not Applicable.

 

Item 13:

Exhibits.

 

  (a)(1)

Any code of ethics, or amendment thereto, that is the subject of the disclosure required by Item 2, to the extent that the registrant intends to satisfy the Item 2 requirements through filing of an exhibit. Not applicable.

 

  (a)(2)

Certifications pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Separate certifications for Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act, are attached.

 

  (a)(3)

Any written solicitation to purchase securities under Rule 23c 1 under the Act sent or given during the period covered by the report by or on behalf of the registrant to 10 or more persons. Not applicable.

 

  (a)(4)

Change in the registrant’s independent public accountant. Not applicable.

 

  (b)

Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. A certification for Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as required by Rule 30a-2(b) under the 1940 Act, is attached. The certification furnished pursuant to this paragraph is not deemed to be “filed” for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise subject to liability of that section. Such certification is not deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, except to the extent that the Registrant specifically incorporates it by reference.


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.

 

Transamerica Series Trust
(Registrant)
By:   /s/ Marijn P. Smit
 

Marijn P. Smit

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

Date:       September 4, 2018

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/ Marijn P. Smit
 

Marijn P. Smit

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

        Date:       September 4, 2018

 

        By:   /s/ Vincent J. Toner
 

Vincent J. Toner

Treasurer

(Principal Financial Officer)

        Date:       September 4, 2018


EXHIBIT INDEX

 

  Exhibit No.    

  

Description of Exhibit

13(a)(2)(i)    Section 302 N-CSR Certification of Principal Executive Officer
13(a)(2)(ii)    Section 302 N-CSR Certification of Principal Financial Officer
13(b)    Section 906 N-CSR Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer
EX-99.CERT 2 d544841dex99cert.htm EX-99.CERT EX-99.CERT

Exhibit 13(a)(2)(i)

Section 302 N-CSR Certification of Principal Executive Officer

TRANSAMERICA SERIES TRUST

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2018

FORM N-CSR CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT

I, Marijn P. Smit, certify that:

 

  1.

I have reviewed this report on Form N-CSR of Transamerica Series Trust;

 

  2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations, changes in net assets, and cash flows (if the financial statements are required to include a statement of cash flows) of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4.

The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) for the Registrant and have:

 

  a.

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  b.

Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  c.

Evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  d.

Disclosed in this report any change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred 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; and

 

  5.

The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed to the Registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the Registrant’s Board of Trustees (or persons performing equivalent functions):

 

  a.

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  b.

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:     September 4, 2018     By:   /s/ Marijn P. Smit
      Marijn P. Smit
    Title:      

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)


Exhibit 13(a)(2)(ii)

Section 302 N-CSR Certification of Principal Financial Officer

TRANSAMERICA SERIES TRUST

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2018

FORM N-CSR CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT

I, Vincent J. Toner, certify that:

 

  1.

I have reviewed this report on Form N-CSR of Transamerica Series Trust;

 

  2.

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

  3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations, changes in net assets, and cash flows (if the financial statements are required to include a statement of cash flows) of the Registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

  4.

The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) for the Registrant and have:

 

  a.

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

  b.

Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

  c.

Evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report based on such evaluation; and

 

  d.

Disclosed in this report any change in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred 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; and

 

  5.

The Registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed to the Registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the Registrant’s Board of Trustees (or persons performing equivalent functions):

 

  a.

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

  b.

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:     September 4, 2018     By:   /s/ Vincent J. Toner
      Vincent J. Toner
    Title:      

Treasurer

(Principal Financial Officer)

EX-99.906CERT 3 d544841dex99906cert.htm EX-99.906CERT EX-99.906CERT

Exhibit 13(b)

Section 906 N-CSR Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer

TRANSAMERICA SERIES TRUST

FOR THE PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2018

FORM N-CSR CERTIFICATION

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Certified Shareholder Report of Transamerica Series Trust (the “Fund”) on Form N-CSR for the period ended June 30, 2018, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), each of the undersigned hereby certifies that, to his or her knowledge:

 

  (1)

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934;

 

  (2)

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Fund.

 

/s/ Marijn P. Smit     Date:    September 4, 2018

Marijn P. Smit

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

   
/s/ Vincent J. Toner     Date:    September 4, 2018

Vincent J. Toner

Treasurer

(Principal Financial Officer)

   

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has been provided to the Registrant and will be retained by the Registrant and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

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