N-CSRS 1 dncsrs.htm BLACKROCK FUNDS BlackRock Funds

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM N-CSRS

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED

MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number 811-05742

Name of Fund: BlackRock Funds

 

All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

Asset Allocation Portfolio

Aurora Portfolio

Capital Appreciation Portfolio

Energy & Resources Portfolio

Global Opportunities Portfolio

Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

International Opportunities Portfolio

Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

 

Fund Address: 100 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19809

Name and address of agent for service: Donald C. Burke, Chief Executive Officer, BlackRock Funds, 800 Scudders Mill Road, Plainsboro, NJ, 08536. Mailing address: P.O. Box 9011, Princeton, NJ, 08543-9011

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (800) 441-7762

Date of fiscal year end: 09/30/2009

Date of reporting period: 03/31/2009


Item 1     Report to Stockholders


EQUITIES    FIXED INCOME    REAL ESTATE    LIQUIDITY    ALTERNATIVES    BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS

 

BlackRock FundsSM    LOGO
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT  |   MARCH 31, 2009 (UNAUDITED)   

BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

BlackRock Aurora Portfolio

BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio

BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

NOT FDIC INSURED

MAY LOSE VALUE

NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

 

     Page

A Letter to Shareholders

   3

Semi-Annual Report:

  

Portfolio Summaries

   4

About Portfolio Performance

   12

Disclosure of Expenses

   13

Financial Statements:

  

Schedules of Investments

   14

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

   24

Statements of Operations

   26

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

   28

Financial Highlights

   30

Notes to Financial Statements

   43

Officers and Trustees

   53

Additional Information

   54

Mutual Fund Family

   57

 

2

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A Letter to Shareholders

The past 12 months have been a period investors would like to forget, but instead will vividly remember, as the global financial crisis erupted into the worst recession in decades. Daily headlines recounted the downfalls of storied financial firms, volatile swings in the world’s financial markets and monumental government actions, including the recent passage of the nearly $800 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The economic data generally deteriorated throughout the reporting period. US gross domestic product (“GDP”) contracted at an annual rate of 6.3% in the fourth quarter of 2008, and economic activity appears on pace to be negative in the first quarter of 2009 as well. The Federal Reserve Board (the “Fed”) took forceful action to revive the global economy and ailing financial system. In addition to slashing the federal funds target rate from 3.0% to a record low range of 0% to 0.25%, the central bank provided enormous cash infusions and radically expanded its balance sheet through a range of lending and acquisition programs.

Against this backdrop, US equities contended with high levels of volatility and posted steep losses, notwithstanding a powerful rally in the final month of the reporting period. International markets also experienced sharp downturns, with some regions declining as much or more than the United States. Risk aversion remained the dominant theme in fixed income markets, as investors sought out the haven of Treasury issues at the expense of virtually all other asset classes. High yield issues, in particular, faced unprecedented challenges and posted severe underperformance; that said, the sector pared its losses in the first quarter of 2009, as both liquidity and investor sentiment toward lower-quality debt improved. At the same time, the start of the new year brought somewhat of a return to normalcy for the tax-exempt market, which registered one of its worst years on record in 2008.

In all, investors continued to gravitate toward relative safety, as evidenced in the six- and 12-month returns of the major benchmark indexes:

 

Total Returns as of March 31, 2009

   6-month     12-month  

US equities (S&P 500 Index)

   (30.54 )%   (38.09 )%

Small cap US equities (Russell 2000 Index)

   (37.17 )   (37.50 )

International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index)

   (31.11 )   (46.50 )

US Treasury securities (Merrill Lynch 10-Year US Treasury Index)

   11.88     10.46  

Taxable fixed income (Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index)

   4.70     3.13  

Tax-exempt fixed income (Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index)

   5.00     2.27  

High yield bonds (Barclays Capital US Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index)

   (12.65 )   (18.56)  

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.

Through periods of market turbulence, as ever, BlackRock’s full resources are dedicated to the management of our clients’ assets. We thank you for entrusting BlackRock with your investments and look forward to continuing to serve you in the months and years ahead.

 

Sincerely,
LOGO
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Seeking additional investment insights?

Visit BlackRock’s award-winning Shareholder® magazine, now available exclusively online at www.blackrock.com/shareholdermagazine. In this issue:

 

 

Discover why portfolio diversification still matters – even as nearly every financial asset class lost value over the past year.

 

 

Learn how adding commodities to a more traditional mix of assets can help you to balance risks and access new potential rewards.

 

 

Assuage your fears about higher taxes and discover how municipal bonds may offer some relief.

 

 

Find out if there’s still value to be found in dividend-paying stocks.

THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT

 

              3


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009   All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio (formerly All-Cap Global Resources Portfolio)

Portfolio Management Commentary

 

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio underperformed the broad-market S&P 500 Index and the Lipper Natural Resources Funds Index, its sector benchmark, for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Detracting from performance was the Portfolio’s aggressive positioning (i.e., being fully invested); this hurt performance as we entered a period of financial turmoil and extreme global economic weakness. We remained almost fully invested as the market collapsed during the fourth quarter of 2008. Oil prices fell from more than $100/barrel to about $30/barrel, before rebounding recently. As a result, energy stocks were particularly weak toward the end of 2008, causing the Portfolio to underperform. Coal producers and natural-gas-related stocks were among the hardest hit, as pricing weakened significantly within these segments. As such, the Portfolio’s overweight in exploration & production and coal & consumable fuels detracted considerably from results.

 

   

Relative to the broad market, the lack of exposure to financials contributed to the Portfolio’s relative performance over the six months. However, given the broad nature of the market decline in the fourth quarter of 2008, none of the subsectors in the Portfolio contributed significantly to returns. Notably, we did witness a rebound in the stocks in the first quarter of 2009. The Portfolio posted positive absolute and relative returns during that period, led by a mid-cap focus and a rebound in oil-related names and metals & mining companies, as oil and industrial metals prices strengthened.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

No significant changes were made to the Portfolio during the period. We modestly increased exposure to the metals complex on concerns over future inflation due to the current amount of monetary and fiscal stimulus.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

Overall, we continue to believe oil, natural gas and coal stocks offer compelling value, even with relatively muted growth expectations. As cuts to exploration and production projects take hold in the coming months, we expect supply-demand dynamics to come back into balance sooner than many may anticipate. Similar to 1998/1999, dramatic downward price moves will likely take too much supply off the market at a time when economies are beginning to stabilize, resulting in significantly higher prices. As this unfolds, we expect the stocks to participate in a meaningful upward revaluation. In anticipation, we have positioned the Portfolio in those stocks and industries that should have the most leverage toward upward-moving prices, while ensuring that the Portfolio’s holdings should be somewhat stable in a flat commodity price environment. We continue to emphasize oil and gas exploration & production, oil service and coal producers.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Range Resources Corp.

   3 %

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   3  

Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan, Inc.

   3  

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

   3  

FMC Technologies, Inc.

   3  

Bill Barrett Corp.

   3  

Southwestern Energy Co.

   3  

BG Group Plc - ADR

   3  

Silver Wheaton Corp.

   3  

Hess Corp.

   3  

 

Industry Representation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

   61 %

Energy Equipment & Services

   21  

Metals & Mining

   11  

Gas Utilities

   4  

Chemicals

   3  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

4

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

  

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 Under normal market conditions, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its total assets in securities of global energy and natural resources companies and companies in associated businesses, as well as utilities (such as gas, water, cable, electrical and telecommunications utilities).

 

3 This unmanaged index covers 500 industrial, utility, transportation and financial companies of the US markets (mostly NYSE issues) representing about 75% of NYSE market capitalization and 30% of NYSE issues. S&P 500 is a trademark of the McGraw-Hill Companies.

 

4 An equally weighted index of typically the 30 largest mutual funds within its respective investment objective.

 

5 Commencement of operations.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns6  
           1 Year     From Inception7  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w/o sales
charge
    w/ sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/ sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (38.48 )%   (52.01 )%   N/A     1.19 %   N/A  

Service

   (38.56 )   (52.16 )   N/A     0.79     N/A  

Investor A

   (38.56 )   (52.16 )   (54.67 )%   0.79     (0.51 )%

Investor B

   (38.76 )   (52.51 )   (54.27 )   0.06     (0.32 )

Investor C

   (38.80 )   (52.53 )   (52.92 )   0.08     0.08  

S&P 500 Index

   (30.54 )   (38.09 )   N/A     (7.73 )   N/A  

Lipper Natural Resources Funds Index

   (19.76 )   (17.57 )   N/A     0.33     N/A  

 

6 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 12 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

 

7 The Portfolio commenced operations on February 16, 2005.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical9
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period8
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period8

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 615.20    $ 3.75    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,020.30    $ 4.70

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 614.40    $ 5.39    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.23    $ 6.77

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 614.40    $ 5.39    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.23    $ 6.77

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 612.40    $ 8.20    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.70    $ 10.30

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 612.00    $ 8.20    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.70    $ 10.30

 

8 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (0.93% for Institutional, 1.34% for Service, 1.34% for Investor A, 2.04% for Investor B and 2.04% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

9 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 13 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    5


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Aurora Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the benchmark Russell 2500 Value Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

In an extremely volatile period for financial stocks, the Portfolio’s relative performance benefited most directly from strong stock selection in the financials sector. PHH Corp., Annaly Capital Management, Inc. and Fidelity National Financial were among the standout individual contributors. A significant underweight in real estate investment trusts (REITs), which sold off sharply during the period, also added value to Portfolio returns.

 

   

In industrials, positive stock selection among commercial services and supplies names, including The Brink’s Co. and pest control services provider Rollins, Inc., benefited relative returns. The Portfolio’s machinery holdings also outperformed their benchmark counterparts, contributing to favorable performance comparisons.

 

   

While overweight positions in the information technology and consumer discretionary sectors created value, these relative gains were overshadowed by the negative impact of weak stock selection. Customer management services provider Convergys and specialty retailer Collective Brands, Inc. were among the key individual detractors from Portfolio performance, and both of these positions were eliminated during the period.

 

   

The utilities sector outperformed the broader market during the period as investors preferred the more defensive areas of the market. Accordingly, an underweight among utilities stocks detracted from the Portfolio’s relative performance.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

Given the difficult credit environment and ongoing deterioration in the housing market, the Portfolio was significantly underweight in the financials sector at the beginning of the period. However, we added to the Portfolio’s exposure in this area, particularly during the fourth quarter of 2008, in response to unprecedented fiscal and monetary stimulus and historically-attractive valuations within the sector.

 

   

More broadly, we reduced the Portfolio’s defensive positioning later in the period, trimming overweight positions in the consumer staples and healthcare sectors, while adding to the Portfolio’s weighting in consumer discretionary.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio was overweight relative to the benchmark in consumer discretionary, primarily within the hotels, restaurant and leisure and apparel and luxury goods sub-sectors. Other Portfolio overweights included consumer staples and healthcare, particularly among healthcare providers and services names. Key underweights included financials, specifically REITs, insurance companies and commercial banks, and utilities.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.

   4 %

PHH Corp.

   4  

Ralcorp Holdings, Inc.

   2  

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

   2  

SkillSoft Plc - ADR

   2  

Magellan Health Services, Inc.

   2  

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

   2  

DaVita, Inc.

   2  

The Brink’s Co.

   2  

Sybase, Inc.

   2  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Financials

   24 %

Consumer Discretionary

   18  

Information Technology

   13  

Industrials

   11  

Health Care

   10  

Consumer Staples

   9  

Materials

   6  

Energy

   5  

Utilities

   4  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

6

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Aurora Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 Under normal market conditions, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its total assets in small- and mid-capitalization common and preferred stocks and securities convertible into common and preferred stocks.

 

3 An index composed of the Russell 2500 companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns4  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (35.30 )%   (40.10 )%   N/A     (7.17 )%   N/A     6.96 %   N/A  

Investor A

   (35.39 )   (40.30 )   (43.43 )%   (7.49 )   (8.48 )%   6.57     6.00 %

Investor B

   (35.69 )   (40.80 )   (43.46 )   (8.19 )   (8.33 )   5.95     5.95  

Investor C

   (35.65 )   (40.72 )   (41.32 )   (8.18 )   (8.18 )   5.79     5.79  

R

   (35.44 )   (40.26 )   N/A     (7.64 )   N/A     6.38     N/A  

Russell 2500 Value Index

   (37.13 )   (38.66 )   N/A     (4.79 )   N/A     4.73     N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 12 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 647.00    $ 4.31    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.70    $ 5.30

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 646.10    $ 5.91    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.73    $ 7.27

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 643.10    $ 8.97    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.94    $ 11.06

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 643.50    $ 8.97    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.94    $ 11.06

R

   $ 1,000.00    $ 645.60    $ 6.56    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.92    $ 8.08

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.05% for Institutional, 1.44% for Investor A, 2.19% for Investor B, 2.19% for Investor C and 1.60% for R), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 13 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    7


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Capital Appreciation Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the benchmark Russell 1000 Growth Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

The US stock market was under heavy pressure during the last six months. Poor economic and housing data, combined with a shuttered credit market and continued doubts about financial institutions, produced extreme levels of fear and volatility. However, toward the end of the six months, we saw significant rallies, and the period ended up closing on a relatively high note. Stocks of every size and style were negatively affected, and the benchmark Russell 1000 Growth Index lost 26% over the period. Against this backdrop, the Portfolio also registered a large decline, but managed to outperform the index thanks to sector strategy and excellent stock selection in the consumer discretionary sector. These positive factors overshadowed negative results in the healthcare and energy sectors.

 

   

Stock selection in the consumer discretionary sector provided the greatest source of absolute and relative strength, with the Portfolio’s holdings collectively delivering a positive return for the period, despite the strongly-negative market. Top contributors included education services provider Apollo Group, Inc. and several value-oriented retailers, including Ross Stores, Inc., Kohl’s Corp. and Amazon.com. The Portfolio’s sector positioning also added value, with significant overweights in consumer staples and healthcare held earlier in the period boosting relative returns.

 

   

Conversely, stock selection in the energy sector detracted from relative returns during the period. While the Portfolio’s energy services stocks slightly outperformed, its investments in exploration and production companies underperformed significantly. Investments in coal producer Massey Energy Co. and natural gas producer EOG Resources, Inc. significantly underperformed the benchmark allocation, which was dominated by oil producers. In healthcare, we missed out on significant upside by not holding Genentech Inc. and Schering-Plough Corp., which were both acquired at significant premiums during the period.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

During the six months, we began to neutralize the defensive positioning that characterized the Portfolio for the majority of 2008. We accomplished this by significantly reducing the Portfolio’s investments in the defensive healthcare and consumer staples sectors, while increasing its exposure to opportunistic investments in the more cyclical consumer discretionary and information technology sectors.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio’s largest overweights relative to the benchmark were in the consumer discretionary and telecommunication services sectors, while its most substantial underweights were in the consumer staples and utilities sectors.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   4 %

Cisco Systems, Inc.

   3  

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

   3  

Google, Inc. - Class A

   3  

The Coca-Cola Co.

   3  

Abbott Laboratories

   3  

Apple, Inc.

   3  

Danaher Corp.

   3  

Kohl’s Corp.

   2  

American Tower Corp. - Class A

   2  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Information Technology

   31 %

Health Care

   16  

Consumer Discretionary

   13  

Industrials

   11  

Consumer Staples

   11  

Energy

   8  

Financials

   4  

Telecommunication Services

   3  

Materials

   3  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

8

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Capital Appreciation Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 Under normal market conditions, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of total assets in common and preferred stock and securities convertible into common and preferred stock of mid- and large-size companies.

 

3 An index composed of those Russell 1000 securities with greater-than-average growth orientation, generally having higher price-to-book and price-to-earnings ratios, lower dividend yields and higher forecasted growth values.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns4  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (24.85 )%   (30.96 )%   N/A     (2.16 )%   N/A     (1.91 )%   N/A  

Investor A

   (24.81 )   (31.35 )   (34.97 )%   (2.56 )   (3.60 )%   (2.31 )   (2.84 )%

Investor B

   (25.32 )   (31.82 )   (34.89 )   (3.29 )   (3.68 )   (2.89 )   (2.89 )

Investor C

   (25.30 )   (31.79 )   (32.47 )   (3.22 )   (3.22 )   (3.00 )   (3.00 )

Russell 1000 Growth Index

   (25.97 )   (34.28 )   N/A     (4.38 )   N/A     (5.26 )   N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 12 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 751.50    $ 3.06    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,021.47    $ 3.53

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 751.90    $ 5.68    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.44    $ 6.56

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 746.80    $ 9.15    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.40    $ 10.60

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 747.00    $ 8.19    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,015.51    $ 9.49

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (0.70% for Institutional, 1.30% for Investor A, 2.10% for Investor B and 1.88% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 13 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    9


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009   Energy & Resources Portfolio (formerly Global Resources Portfolio)

Portfolio Management Commentary

 

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio underperformed the broad-market S&P 500 Index and the Lipper Natural Resources Funds Index, its sector benchmark, for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Overall, the Portfolio’s aggressive positioning (i.e., being fully invested) and small-cap orientation hurt returns in an environment in which investors became extraordinarily risk averse. The Portfolio’s emphasis on coal producers and oil and gas exploration and production companies sharply detracted from performance as commodity prices plunged and the global economy slipped into a severe recession. While oil prices have recently rebounded, natural gas and coal pricing remains subdued as electricity demand has declined. These factors continue to pressure many of the Portfolio’s coal and exploration and production holdings.

 

   

Energy stocks were among the market leaders on both the upside and the downside during the six months. The Portfolio underperformed the broad market significantly during the fourth quarter of 2008, as did all subsectors, but it outperformed during the first quarter of 2009. While relative leadership was fairly broad-based, energy service names and other oil-related stocks outperformed as the price of oil rebounded due to significant Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC production cuts. Additionally, metals and mining holdings performed relatively well, as base metal prices rebounded and investors flocked to precious metals as a hedge against potential future inflation.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

Few significant changes were made to the Portfolio during the six-month period. We deployed cash and added to names, such as Penn Virginia Corp., on significant price weakness and attractive valuation.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

Overall, we continue to believe oil, natural gas and coal stocks offer compelling value, even with relatively muted growth expectations. As cuts to exploration and production projects take hold in the coming months, we expect supply-demand dynamics to come back into balance sooner than many may anticipate. Similar to 1998/1999, dramatic downward price moves will likely take too much supply off the market at a time when economies are beginning to stabilize, resulting in significantly higher prices. As this unfolds, we expect the stocks to participate in a meaningful upward revaluation. In anticipation, we have positioned the Portfolio in those stocks and industries that should have the most leverage toward upward-moving prices, while ensuring that the Portfolio’s holdings should be somewhat stable in a flat commodity price environment. We continue to emphasize oil and gas exploration & production, oil service and coal producers.

 

   

Additionally, while investors’ risk aversion is negatively affecting our small cap portfolios in the near term, we believe that fundamentals will dictate a reversal of this trend on a longer-term. Thus, we remain aggressively positioned and believe that we will benefit when the market capitalization performance gap narrows, as it has in past cycles.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Southwestern Energy Co.

   7 %

PetroHawk Energy Corp.

   7  

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   5  

Peabody Energy Corp.

   4  

Newfield Exploration Co.

   4  

Plains Exploration & Production Co.

   4  

Arch Coal, Inc.

   3  

Massey Energy Co.

   3  

Goodrich Petroleum Corp.

   3  

Penn Virginia Corp.

   3  

 

Industry Representation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels

   74 %

Metals & Mining

   12  

Energy Equipment & Services

   11  

Gas Utilities

   2  

Electrical Equipment

   1  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

10

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009   Energy & Resources Portfolio
Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment  

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 Under normal market conditions, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of its total assets in securities of global energy and natural resources companies and companies in associated businesses, as well as utilities (such as gas, water, cable, electrical and telecommunications utilities).

 

3 This unmanaged Index covers 500 industrial, utility, transportation and financial companies of the US markets (mostly NYSE issues) representing about 75% of NYSE market capitalization and 30% of NYSE issues. S&P 500 is a trademark of the McGraw-Hill Companies.

 

4 An equally weighted index of typically the 30 largest mutual funds within its respective investment objective. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

            Average Annual Total Returns5  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (45.14 )%   (55.73 )%   N/A     5.74 %   N/A     17.60 %   N/A  

Investor A

   (45.38 )   (55.88 )   (58.19 )%   5.44     4.31 %   17.20     16.58 %

Investor B

   (45.48 )   (56.19 )   (57.36 )   4.69     4.56     16.55     16.55  

Investor C

   (45.49 )   (56.18 )   (56.44 )   4.69     4.69     16.41     16.41  

S&P 500 Index

   (30.54 )   (38.09 )   N/A     (4.77 )   N/A     (3.00 )   N/A  

Lipper Natural Resources Funds Index

   (19.76 )   (17.57 )   N/A     7.35     N/A     9.43     N/A  

 

5 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 12 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical7
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period6
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period6

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 548.60    $ 3.98    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.80    $ 5.20

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 546.20    $ 5.09    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.34    $ 6.66

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 545.20    $ 7.86    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.70    $ 10.30

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 545.10    $ 7.86    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.70    $ 10.30

 

6 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.03% for Institutional, 1.32% for Investor A, 2.04% Investor B and 2.04% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

7 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 13 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    11


About Portfolio Performance

 

   

Institutional Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge and are available only to eligible investors. These shares bear no ongoing distribution or service fees.

 

   

Service Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end load) of 5.25% and a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 4.50% declining to 0% after six years. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. These shares automatically convert to Investor A Shares after approximately eight years. (There is no initial sales charge for automatic share conversions.) All returns for periods greater than eight years reflect this conversion.

 

   

Investor C Shares are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within one year of purchase. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year.

 

   

R Shares are not subject to any initial sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.25% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. R Shares are available only to certain retirement and other similar plans.

Performance information reflects past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Refer to www.blackrock.com/funds to obtain performance data current to the most recent month-end. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. Each Portfolio other than the BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio may charge a 2% redemption fee for sales or exchanges of shares within 30 days of purchase or exchange. Performance data does not reflect this potential fee. Figures shown in the performance tables on the previous pages assume reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, if any, at net asset value on the ex-dividend date. Investment return and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each class of shares will vary because of the different levels of service, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid to shareholders.

The performance information on the previous pages includes information for each class of each Portfolio since the commencement of operations of such Portfolio, rather than the date such class was introduced. Performance information for each class introduced after the commencement of operations of a Portfolio is therefore based on the performance history of a predecessor class adjusted to reflect the class specific fees applicable to each class at the time of the launch of such share class. This information may be considered when assessing a Portfolio’s performance, but does not represent the actual performance of this share class.

Performance for the Aurora, Capital Appreciation and Energy & Resources Portfolios for the periods prior to January 31, 2005 is based on performance of certain former State Street Research mutual funds that reorganized with the Portfolios on that date.

The performance information also reflects fee waivers and reimbursements that subsidize and reduce the total operating expenses of each Portfolio. The Portfolios’ returns would have been lower if there were no such waivers and reimbursements. BlackRock Advisors, LLC is under no obligation to waive or continue waiving its fees after February 1, 2010.

 

12

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Disclosure of Expenses

Shareholders of these Portfolios may incur the following charges: (a) expenses related to transactions, including sales charges and redemption fees; and (b) operating expenses, including advisory fees, service and distribution fees including 12b-1 fees, and other Portfolio expenses. The expense examples on the previous pages (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2008 and held through March 31, 2009) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Portfolio and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Expense Example tables provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number corresponding to their share class under the headings entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

The tables also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolios’ actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in these Portfolios and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in other funds’ shareholder reports.

The expenses shown in the table are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as sales charges, redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the hypothetical table is useful in comparing ongoing expenses only, and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.

Derivative Instruments

The Portfolios may invest in various derivative instruments, including forward currency contracts, and other instruments specified in the Notes to Financials Statements, which constitute forms of economic leverage. Such instruments are used to obtain exposure to a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities or to hedge market and/or interest rate risks. Such derivative instruments involve risks, including the imperfect correlation between the value of a derivative instrument and the underlying asset, possible default of the other party to the transaction and illiquidity of the derivative instrument. A Portfolio’s ability to successfully use a derivative instrument depends on the Advisor’s ability to accurately predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. The use of derivative instruments may result in losses greater than if they had not been used, may require a Portfolio to sell or purchase portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices other than current market values, may limit the amount of appreciation a Portfolio can realize on an investment or may cause a Portfolio to hold a security that it might otherwise sell. The Portfolios’ investments in these instruments are discussed in detail in the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    13


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Chemicals — 2.8%

     

Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan, Inc.

   154,900    $ 12,517,469
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 20.8%

     

Cameron International Corp. (a)

   212,930      4,669,555

Core Laboratories NV

   148,850      10,889,866

ENSCO International, Inc.

   124,838      3,295,723

FMC Technologies, Inc. (a)

   391,390      12,277,904

Halliburton Co.

   259,000      4,006,730

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

   334,330      7,612,694

Noble Corp.

   212,310      5,114,548

Oceaneering International, Inc. (a)

   137,310      5,062,620

Pride International, Inc. (a)

   230,580      4,145,828

Schlumberger Ltd.

   198,480      8,062,258

Smith International, Inc.

   164,340      3,530,023

Transocean Ltd. (a)

   187,240      11,017,202

Unit Corp. (a)

   279,340      5,843,793

Weatherford International Ltd. (a)

   694,870      7,692,211
         
        93,220,955
         

Gas Utilities — 4.2%

     

EQT Corp.

   351,410      11,009,675

Questar Corp.

   272,030      8,005,843
         
        19,015,518
         

Metals & Mining — 10.3%

     

Agnico-Eagle Mines Ltd.

   147,590      8,400,823

BHP Billiton Ltd. - ADR

   239,510      10,682,146

Eldorado Gold Corp. (a)

   570,620      5,159,476

Goldcorp, Inc.

   242,852      8,091,829

Silver Wheaton Corp. (a)

   1,370,824      11,281,881

Teck Cominco Ltd. - Class B

   438,290      2,450,781
         
        46,066,936
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 60.4%

     

Apache Corp.

   173,630      11,127,947

Arch Coal, Inc.

   333,500      4,458,895

BG Group Plc - ADR

   155,110      11,678,232

Bill Barrett Corp. (a)

   543,621      12,090,131

Cameco Corp.

   76,770      1,318,141

Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.

   173,340      6,683,990

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   543,530      13,718,697

Crescent Point Energy Trust

   275,870      5,767,714

Denbury Resources, Inc. (a)

   671,190      9,973,883

Devon Energy Corp.

   190,120      8,496,463

EnCana Corp.

   234,260      9,513,299

EOG Resources, Inc.

   167,970      9,198,037

Forest Oil Corp. (a)

   319,590      4,202,608

Galleon Energy, Inc. - Class A (a)

   720,094      2,061,817

Gasco Energy, Inc. (a)(b)

   1,525,000      594,750

Heritage Oil Ltd. (a)

   491,250      2,340,159

Hess Corp.

   207,470      11,244,874

Hugoton Royalty Trust

   1      10

Massey Energy Co.

   624,639      6,321,347

Murphy Oil Corp.

   137,890      6,173,335

Newfield Exploration Co. (a)

   358,000      8,126,600

Nexen, Inc.

   605,754      10,272,066

Noble Energy, Inc.

   173,800      9,364,344

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

   222,350      12,373,778

OGX Petroleo e Gas Participacoes SA (a)

   11,200      3,481,113

Patriot Coal Corp. (a)(b)

   64,116      237,870

Peabody Energy Corp.

   409,390      10,251,126

PetroChina Co. Ltd. - ADR

   33,390      2,661,183

Petroleo Brasileiro SA - ADR

   365,240      11,128,863

Plains Exploration & Production Co. (a)

   283,710      4,888,323

Range Resources Corp.

   374,800      15,426,768

Rex Energy Corp. (a)

   310,500      891,135

Southwestern Energy Co. (a)

   404,400      12,006,636

StatoilHydro ASA

   373,222      6,603,389

StatoilHydro ASA - ADR

   157,440      2,745,754

Suncor Energy, Inc.

   245,980      5,463,216

TriStar Oil & Gas Ltd. (a)

   259,114      1,896,908

Whiting Petroleum Corp. (a)

   277,130      7,163,810

XTO Energy, Inc.

   310,671      9,512,746
         
        271,459,957
         

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $598,523,002) — 98.5%

        442,280,835
         

 

      Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60% (c)(d)

   6,493,941      6,493,941  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17% (c)(d)(e)

   440,000      440,000  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $6,933,941) — 1.5%

        6,933,941  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $605,456,943*) — 100.0%

        449,214,776  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.0)%

        (88,174 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 449,126,602  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 599,976,130  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 48,757,328  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (199,518,682 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (150,761,354 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

Portfolios Abbreviations

 

To simplify the listings of portfolio holdings in the Schedules of Investments, the names of certain securities have been abbreviated according to the list on the right.   ADR CAD  

American Depository Receipts

Canadian Dollar

 

14

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 6,493,941 **   $ 14,983

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (41,358,000 )***   $ 66,934

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments.

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 440,342,970

Level 2

     8,871,806

Level 3

     —  
      

Total

   $ 449,214,776
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    15


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Aurora Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 0.4%

     

Orbital Sciences Corp.(a)

   140,277    $ 1,667,894
         

Biotechnology — 0.5%

     

Dyax Corp.(a)

   805,326      2,021,368
         

Building Products — 0.3%

     

Lennox International, Inc.(b)

   54,325      1,437,439
         

Capital Markets — 1.0%

     

Jefferies Group, Inc.(b)

   296,900      4,097,220
         

Chemicals — 3.0%

     

Airgas, Inc.

   122,700      4,148,487

FMC Corp.

   95,300      4,111,242

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. - Class A

   127,000      4,406,900
         
        12,666,629
         

Commercial Banks — 5.8%

     

Associated Banc-Corp.

   220,200      3,399,888

City National Corp.

   133,600      4,511,672

Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.

   320,200      15,030,188

TCF Financial Corp.(b)

   176,800      2,079,168
         
        25,020,916
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 4.3%

     

The Brink’s Co.

   301,251      7,971,101

The GEO Group, Inc.(a)

   270,400      3,582,800

Rollins, Inc.

   196,253      3,365,739

Waste Connections, Inc.(a)

   142,100      3,651,970
         
        18,571,610
         

Communications Equipment — 0.7%

     

Polycom, Inc.(a)

   188,600      2,902,554
         

Computers & Peripherals — 0.6%

     

Teradata Corp.(a)

   166,800      2,705,496
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.5%

     

URS Corp.(a)

   51,700      2,089,197
         

Containers & Packaging — 3.1%

     

Crown Holdings, Inc.(a)

   281,100      6,389,403

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

   130,300      6,845,962
         
        13,235,365
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 1.1%

     

Brink’s Home Security Holdings, Inc.(a)

   201,951      4,564,093
         

Diversified Financial Services — 3.4%

     

PHH Corp.(a)

   1,043,841      14,665,966
         

Electric Utilities — 1.3%

     

ITC Holdings Corp.

   126,158      5,503,012
         

Electrical Equipment — 1.8%

     

AMETEK, Inc.

   174,800      5,465,996

Roper Industries, Inc.

   51,400      2,181,930
         
        7,647,926
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.9%

     

Amphenol Corp. - Class A

   154,500      4,401,705

Anixter International, Inc.(a)

   115,600      3,662,208
         
        8,063,913
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 2.2%

     

Core Laboratories NV

   81,200      5,940,592

Lufkin Industries, Inc.

   90,774      3,438,519
         
        9,379,111
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 2.0%

     

BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc.(a)

   200,300      6,407,597

Spartan Stores, Inc.

   135,300      2,084,973
         
        8,492,570
         

Food Products — 5.0%

     

Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc.(a)

   228,800      3,756,896

Hain Celestial Group, Inc.(a)

   382,308      5,444,066

Ralcorp Holdings, Inc.(a)

   188,870      10,176,316

Sanderson Farms, Inc.

   60,200      2,260,510
         
        21,637,788
         

Gas Utilities — 0.9%

     

EQT Corp.

   119,500      3,743,935
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 2.2%

     

The Cooper Cos., Inc.

   137,900      3,646,076

Hologic, Inc.(a)

   265,900      3,480,631

Teleflex, Inc.

   58,100      2,271,129
         
        9,397,836
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 6.4%

     

DaVita, Inc.(a)

   204,800      9,000,960

HMS Holdings Corp.(a)

   139,900      4,602,710

Magellan Health Services, Inc.(a)

   253,618      9,241,840

MEDNAX, Inc.(a)

   76,200      2,245,614

Omnicare, Inc.

   92,600      2,267,774
         
        27,358,898
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 7.0%

     

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

   265,265      9,087,979

Penn National Gaming, Inc.(a)

   178,200      4,303,530

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A(a)

   528,574      6,401,031

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

   333,000      4,229,100

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc. - Class A

   1,174,300      5,906,729
         
        29,928,369
         

Household Durables — 1.7%

     

Jarden Corp.(a)

   574,100      7,273,847
         

Insurance — 6.0%

     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   76,900      1,727,174

Fidelity National Financial, Inc. - Class A

   369,713      7,213,101

First American Corp.

   119,600      3,170,596

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

   223,030      6,427,724

HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc.

   112,800      2,841,432

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   157,977      4,480,228
         
        25,860,255
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.8%

     

priceline.com, Inc.(a)(b)

   44,300      3,489,954
         

Internet Software & Services — 2.2%

     

SkillSoft Plc - ADR(a)

   1,411,281      9,441,470
         

IT Services — 1.6%

     

Hewitt Associates, Inc. - Class A(a)

   149,400      4,446,144

Lender Processing Services, Inc.

   76,900      2,353,909
         
        6,800,053
         

 

16

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Aurora Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Leisure Equipment & Products — 1.2%

     

Hasbro, Inc.

   202,800    $ 5,084,196  
           

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.9%

     

Life Technologies Corp. (a)

   114,100      3,705,968  
           

Machinery — 2.3%

     

Dover Corp.

   78,300      2,065,554  

IDEX Corp.

   189,300      4,139,991  

Pentair, Inc.

   177,800      3,852,926  
           
        10,058,471  
           

Multi-Utilities — 1.6%

     

Wisconsin Energy Corp.

   169,500      6,978,315  
           

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 2.4%

     

Foundation Coal Holdings, Inc.

   220,800      3,168,480  

Peabody Energy Corp.

   124,100      3,107,464  

PetroHawk Energy Corp. (a)

   94,200      1,811,466  

Range Resources Corp.

   50,700      2,086,812  
           
        10,174,222  
           

Personal Products — 1.7%

     

Alberto-Culver Co.

   154,900      3,502,289  

Chattem, Inc. (a)(b)

   65,700      3,682,485  
           
        7,184,774  
           

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 4.0%

     

Annaly Capital Management, Inc.

   498,600      6,915,582  

Essex Property Trust, Inc. (b)

   59,500      3,411,730  

Mack-Cali Realty Corp.

   128,800      2,551,528  

Redwood Trust, Inc. (b)

   282,000      4,328,700  
           
        17,207,540  
           

Road & Rail — 1.3%

     

Genesee & Wyoming, Inc. - Class A (a)

   147,000      3,123,750  

Landstar System, Inc.

   75,800      2,537,026  
           
        5,660,776  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 2.1%

     

Intersil Corp. - Class A

   289,500      3,329,250  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (a)

   634,700      2,475,330  

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. (a)

   152,100      3,294,486  
           
        9,099,066  
           

Software — 2.8%

     

Lawson Software, Inc. (a)

   1,004,100      4,267,425  

Sybase, Inc. (a)

   262,700      7,957,183  
           
        12,224,608  
           

Specialty Retail — 3.2%

     

PetSmart, Inc.

   223,100      4,676,176  

Tractor Supply Co. (a)

   97,400      3,512,244  

Urban Outfitters, Inc. (a)

   329,900      5,400,463  
           
        13,588,883  
           

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 2.1%

     

Carter’s, Inc. (a)

   208,200      3,916,242  

VF Corp. (b)

   86,300      4,928,593  
           
        8,844,835  
           

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 2.3%

     

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

   919,400      10,021,460  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $428,144,763) — 95.6%

        409,497,798  
           
      Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60% (c)(d)

   21,883,965      21,883,965  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series,

     

1.17% (c)(d)(e)

   22,332,800      22,332,800  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $44,216,765) — 10.3%

        44,216,765  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $472,361,528*) — 105.9%

        453,714,563  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (5.9)%

        (25,232,887 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 428,481,676  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 489,919,946  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 25,880,760  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (62,086,143 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (36,205,383 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 21,883,965 **   $ 23,432

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (34,022,600 )***   $ 149,576

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    17


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Aurora Portfolio

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments.

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 453,714,563

Level 2

     —  

Level 3

     —  
      

Total

   $ 453,714,563
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

18

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Capital Appreciation Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 2.1%

     

General Dynamics Corp.

   38,300    $ 1,592,897

Honeywell International, Inc.

   109,618      3,053,957
         
        4,646,854
         

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.7%

     

United Parcel Service, Inc. - Class B

   32,000      1,575,040
         

Airlines — 0.9%

     

Delta Air Lines, Inc.(a)

   344,900      1,941,787
         

Beverages — 3.7%

     

The Coca-Cola Co.

   132,954      5,843,328

PepsiCo, Inc.

   44,324      2,281,800
         
        8,125,128
         

Biotechnology — 3.8%

     

Celgene Corp.(a)

   52,600      2,335,440

Genzyme Corp.(a)

   36,477      2,166,369

Gilead Sciences, Inc.(a)

   84,300      3,904,776
         
        8,406,585
         

Capital Markets — 0.8%

     

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

   17,400      1,844,748
         

Chemicals — 0.8%

     

Ecolab, Inc.

   51,900      1,802,487
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.9%

     

Waste Management, Inc.

   72,600      1,858,560
         

Communications Equipment — 7.0%

     

Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)

   393,321      6,595,993

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   225,423      8,771,209
         
        15,367,202
         

Computers & Peripherals — 6.2%

     

Apple, Inc.(a)

   53,118      5,583,764

Hewlett-Packard Co.

   112,600      3,609,956

International Business Machines Corp.

   45,400      4,398,806
         
        13,592,526
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.7%

     

Fluor Corp.

   44,900      1,551,295
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 1.5%

     

Apollo Group, Inc. - Class A(a)

   40,600      3,180,198
         

Diversified Financial Services — 1.9%

     

CME Group, Inc.

   9,220      2,271,716

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

   67,300      1,788,834
         
        4,060,550
         

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.5%

     

AT&T, Inc.

   46,848      1,180,570
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 2.1%

     

Schlumberger Ltd.

   49,017      1,991,071

Transocean Ltd.(a)

   42,705      2,512,762
         
        4,503,833
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 4.1%

     

The Kroger Co.

   58,300      1,237,126

Safeway, Inc.

   74,300      1,500,117

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

   120,886      6,298,161
         
        9,035,404
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.7%

     

C.R. Bard, Inc.

   18,600      1,482,792
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 3.1%

     

Henry Schein, Inc.(a)

   47,300      1,892,473

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.(a)

   80,522      3,328,779

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

   72,700      1,521,611
         
        6,742,863
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 2.9%

     

Burger King Holdings, Inc.

   139,100      3,192,345

McDonald’s Corp.

   56,400      3,077,748
         
        6,270,093
         

Household Durables — 0.8%

     

D.R. Horton, Inc.

   175,900      1,706,230
         

Household Products — 1.1%

     

Clorox Co.

   29,000      1,492,920

The Procter & Gamble Co.

   17,986      846,961
         
        2,339,881
         

Industrial Conglomerates — 1.1%

     

3M Co.

   48,100      2,391,532
         

Insurance — 1.1%

     

The Travelers Cos., Inc.

   57,400      2,332,736
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 1.7%

     

Amazon.com, Inc.(a)

   49,840      3,660,250
         

Internet Software & Services — 2.7%

     

Google, Inc. - Class A(a)

   17,254      6,005,427
         

IT Services — 0.4%

     

Accenture Ltd. - Class A

   32,800      901,672
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.9%

     

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(a)

   56,300      2,008,221
         

Machinery — 4.4%

     

Cummins, Inc.

   84,200      2,142,890

Danaher Corp.

   102,022      5,531,633

Deere & Co.

   60,100      1,975,487
         
        9,650,010
         

Metals & Mining — 2.2%

     

Agnico-Eagle Mines Ltd.

   42,900      2,441,868

Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc. - Class B

   62,737      2,390,907
         
        4,832,775
         

Multiline Retail — 2.3%

     

Kohl’s Corp.(a)

   121,068      5,123,598
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 6.0%

     

Apache Corp.

   13,700      878,033

EOG Resources, Inc.

   22,620      1,238,671

Exxon Mobil Corp.

   50,600      3,445,860

Massey Energy Co.

   91,986      930,898

PetroHawk Energy Corp.(a)

   69,500      1,336,485

Petroleo Brasileiro SA - ADR

   74,300      2,263,921

Range Resources Corp.

   41,800      1,720,488

Valero Energy Corp.

   74,500      1,333,550
         
        13,147,906
         

Pharmaceuticals — 6.9%

     

Abbott Laboratories

   120,300      5,738,310

Johnson & Johnson

   56,100      2,950,860

Schering-Plough Corp.

   133,200      3,136,860

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. - ADR

   73,100      3,293,155
         
        15,119,185
         

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    19


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Capital Appreciation Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 5.2%

     

Broadcom Corp. - Class A(a)

   170,927    $ 3,415,121  

Lam Research Corp.(a)

   107,617      2,450,439  

NVIDIA Corp.(a)

   213,400      2,104,124  

PMC-Sierra, Inc.(a)

   531,457      3,390,696  
           
        11,360,380  
           

Software — 9.4%

     

Activision Blizzard, Inc.(a)

   355,400      3,717,484  

Adobe Systems, Inc.(a)

   55,120      1,179,017  

Check Point Software Technologies(a)

   134,300      2,982,803  

Microsoft Corp.

   263,342      4,837,592  

Oracle Corp.

   270,910      4,895,344  

Salesforce.com, Inc.(a)

   87,879      2,876,280  
           
        20,488,520  
           

Specialty Retail — 3.6%

     

CarMax, Inc.(a)(b)

   175,400      2,181,976  

The Home Depot, Inc.

   101,900      2,400,764  

Ross Stores, Inc.

   89,770      3,220,948  
           
        7,803,688  
           

Tobacco — 1.7%

     

Philip Morris International, Inc.

   104,640      3,723,091  
           

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 2.8%

     

American Tower Corp. - Class A(a)

   165,038      5,022,106  

MetroPCS Communications, Inc.(a)

   63,200      1,079,456  
           
        6,101,562  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $235,359,259) — 98.7%

        215,865,179  
           
     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(c)(d)

   3,220,741      3,220,741  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17%(c)(d)(e)

   2,145,000      2,145,000  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $5,365,741) — 2.5%

        5,365,741  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $240,725,000*) — 101.2%

        221,230,920  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.2)%

        (2,522,569 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 218,708,351  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 242,267,087  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 12,740,083  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (33,776,250 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (21,036,167 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 3,220,741 **   $ 3,746

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC

    

Money Market Series

   $ (7,615,350 )***   $ 2,535

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments.

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 221,230,920

Level 2

     —  

Level 3

     —  
      

Total

   $ 221,230,920
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Energy & Resources Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Auto Components — 0.2%

     

Westport Innovations, Inc. (a)

   274,143    $ 1,089,353
         

Capital Markets — 0.0%

     

Treasure Island Royalty Trust (a)

   366,922      117,415
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.2%

     

Alexco Resource Corp. (a)

   813,583      1,078,833

Republic Resources, Inc. (a)

   28,750      460
         
        1,079,293
         

Diversified Financial Services — 0.0%

     

Quest Capital Corp.

   61,000      34,351
         

Electrical Equipment — 1.3%

     

First Solar, Inc. (a)(b)

   50,000      6,635,000

ITM Power Plc (a)

   525,200      73,333

Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. (a)

   63,900      421,740
         
        7,130,073
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 10.2%

     

Baker Hughes, Inc.

   300,000      8,565,000

BJ Services Co.

   1,012,400      10,073,380

Complete Production Services, Inc. (a)

   34,400      105,952

ENSCO International, Inc.

   94,100      2,484,240

Halliburton Co.

   490,726      7,591,531

Hercules Offshore, Inc. (a)

   68,900      108,862

HSE Integrated Ltd. (a)

   28,238      7,839

Key Energy Services, Inc. (a)

   676,000      1,946,880

Leader Energy Services Ltd. (a)

   454,104      14,407

National Oilwell Varco, Inc. (a)

   43,270      1,242,282

Smith International, Inc.

   200,000      4,296,000

Technicoil Corp. (a)

   1,300,900      309,541

Transocean Ltd. (a)

   166,500      9,796,860

Weatherford International Ltd. (a)

   754,396      8,351,164
         
        54,893,938
         

Gas Utilities — 1.5%

     

EQT Corp.

   256,500      8,036,145
         

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders — 0.0%

     

Dynegy, Inc. - Class A (a)

   1,560      2,200
         

Machinery — 0.0%

     

Railpower Technologies Corp. (a)

   360,600      24,311
         

Metals & Mining — 11.0%

     

Archipelago Resources Plc (a)

   2,247,400      362,775

Baja Mining Corp. (a)

   3,654,800      1,029,072

BHP Billiton Ltd. - ADR

   300,000      13,380,000

Companhia Vale do Rio Doce - ADR

   300,000      3,990,000

Corriente Resources, Inc. - Class A (a)

   982,800      4,606,875

Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp. (a)

   559,600      68,796

Eldorado Gold Corp. (a)

   368,965      3,336,137

Eldorado Gold Corp., Exchange Receipts (acquired 7/14/08, cost $0, unrestricted issue on 7/14/08 was valued at $8.72 per share) (a)(c)

   3,024,300      —  

Epsilon Energy, Inc. (d)

   332,500      150,321

Erdene Gold, Inc.

   1,100,000      218,115

European Goldfields Ltd. (a)

   561,400      1,491,664

Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc. - Class B

   300,000      11,433,000

Fronteer Development Group, Inc. (a)

   500,000      1,209,550

Gold Reserve, Inc. (a)

   123,948      83,045

Goldcorp, Inc.

   4,600      154,841

Golden Star Resources Ltd. (a)(b)

   789,408      1,208,405

Helio Resource Corp. (a)

   500,000      152,681

Kinross Gold Corp.

   111,175      1,986,697

Linear Gold Corp. (a)

   1,000,000      920,051

MAG Silver Corp. (a)

   964,000      4,304,664

Minefinders Corp. Ltd. (a)(b)

   250,000      1,925,000

Nevsun Resources Ltd. (a)

   1,554,800      1,677,132

Northern Star Mining Corp. (a)

   1,133,500      521,439

Polymet Mining Corp. (a)

   2,250,000      1,713,198

Q2 Gold Resources, Inc.

   327,600      —  

Romarco Minerals, Inc. (a)

   223,000      99,048

Rusoro Mining Ltd. (a)

   11,764      5,132

Selkirk Metals Corp. (a)

   2,000,000      214,150

Sunridge Gold Corp. (a)

   3,325,559      553,908

Virginia Mines, Inc. (a)

   216,350      652,070

West Timmins Mining, Inc. (a)

   2,660,128      1,308,121

X-Cal Resources Ltd. (a)

   1,755,500      111,390
         
        58,867,277
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 70.4%

     

Alberta Clipper Energy, Inc. (a)

   95,415      37,839

American Oil & Gas, Inc. (a)

   224,088      172,548

Approach Resources, Inc. (a)

   93,700      580,940

Arch Coal, Inc.

   1,324,400      17,707,228

Argosy Energy, Inc. (a)

   3,422      3,664

ATP Oil & Gas Corp. (a)(b)

   168,800      865,944

Bayou Bend Petroleum Ltd. (a)

   2,237,500      319,440

Baytex Energy Trust

   421,948      5,053,470

Canadian Superior Energy, Inc. (a)

   6,230,300      2,912,354

Canext Energy Ltd. (a)

   207,829      52,748

Cinch Energy Corp. (a)

   901,980      393,472

Clayton Williams Energy, Inc. (a)

   319,421      9,339,870

Compton Petroleum Corp. (a)

   104,300      67,835

Comstock Resources, Inc. (a)

   163,300      4,866,340

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   997,600      25,179,424

Continental Resources, Inc. (a)(b)

   135,000      2,863,350

Corridor Resources, Inc. (a)

   646,600      974,413

Crescent Point Energy Trust

   102,000      2,132,551

Crew Energy, Inc. (a)

   1,121,837      3,479,047

Daylight Resources Trust

   346,361      1,870,811

Delphi Energy Corp. (a)

   831,300      540,661

Delta Petroleum Corp. (a)

   3,139,346      3,767,215

Denbury Resources, Inc. (a)

   595,200      8,844,672

Ember Resources, Inc. (a)

   109,690      43,500

Energy XXI Bermuda Ltd.

   553,900      207,712

Evergreen Energy, Inc. (a)

   393,400      547,613

EXCO Resources, Inc. (a)

   1,268,800      12,688,000

Fairborne Energy Ltd. (a)

   259,558      619,662

Forest Oil Corp. (a)

   100,000      1,315,000

Foundation Coal Holdings, Inc.

   230,300      3,304,805

Galleon Energy, Inc. - Class A (a)

   2,333,982      6,682,801

Gasco Energy, Inc. (a)(b)

   927,600      361,764

Gastar Exploration Ltd. (a)

   1,055,300      569,862

GMX Resources, Inc. (a)(b)

   206,189      1,340,228

Goodrich Petroleum Corp. (a)(b)

   809,700      15,675,792

Gulfsands Petroleum Plc (a)

   422,500      964,171

Heritage Oil Ltd. (a)

   2,523,000      11,970,231

Highpine Oil & Gas Ltd. (a)

   323,650      1,201,366

Iteration Energy Ltd. (a)

   226,744      176,244

James River Coal Co. (a)

   131,100      1,617,774

Longview Energy Co. (acquired 1/20/05, cost $1,281,000) (a)(c)

   85,400      1,567,090

Lynden Energy Corp. (a)

   200,400      47,684

Marathon Oil Corp.

   6,447      169,492

Massey Energy Co.

   1,694,840      17,151,781

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    21


Schedule of Investments    Energy & Resources Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

     

Matador Resources Co. (acquired 1/20/05 through 4/19/06, cost $2,957,155) (a)(c)

   513,393    $ 6,925,671

MGM Energy Corp. (a)

   15,084      1,256

Midnight Oil Exploration Ltd. (a)

   1,127,700      715,546

Newfield Exploration Co. (a)

   959,310      21,776,337

Niko Resources Ltd.

   39,000      1,815,133

Open Range Energy Corp. (a)

   48,061      46,506

Pacific Rodera Energy, Inc. (a)

   990,200      161,002

Pacific Rubiales Energy Corp. (a)

   678,950      2,633,301

Pan Orient Energy Corp. (a)

   198,600      637,952

Parallel Petroleum Corp. (a)

   107,032      137,001

Paramount Resources Ltd. - Class A (a)

   377,100      1,803,548

Patriot Coal Corp. (a)(b)

   377,346      1,399,954

Peabody Energy Corp.

   895,436      22,421,717

Pengrowth Energy Trust

   25,486      143,520

Penn Virginia Corp.

   1,408,300      15,463,134

Penn West Energy Trust

   153,333      1,444,794

Petro Andina Resources, Inc. (a)

   49,500      228,105

PetroHawk Energy Corp. (a)

   1,756,500      33,777,495

Petrolifera Petroleum Ltd. (a)

   892,415      1,132,506

Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

   209,200      3,445,524

Plains Exploration & Production Co. (a)

   1,255,525      21,632,696

ProspEx Resources Ltd. (a)

   1,504,120      524,915

Quest Resource Corp. (a)

   112,000      35,056

Quicksilver Resources, Inc. (a)(b)

   364,400      2,018,776

Range Resources Corp.

   200,000      8,232,000

Rex Energy Corp. (a)

   772,871      2,218,140

Ship Finance International Ltd.

   27      177

Southwestern Energy Co. (a)

   1,248,600      37,070,934

Stone Energy Corp. (a)

   27,274      90,822

Tag Oil Ltd.

   39,600      5,025

Trafalgar Energy Ltd. (a)

   21,717      9,990

TransCanada Corp.

   40,700      962,945

Triex Minerals Corp. (a)

   468,150      61,266

Trilogy Energy Trust

   152,791      811,945

TriStar Oil & Gas Ltd. (a)

   806,837      5,906,651

True Energy Trust

   188,332      101,575

Tullow Oil Plc

   544,198      6,256,934

TUSK Energy Corp.

   681,846      1,157,321

Uranium One, Inc. (a)

   1,005,765      2,034,185

Vero Energy, Inc. (a)

   91,642      238,409

Warren Resources, Inc. (a)

   222,282      213,391

West Energy Ltd. (a)

   1,199,235      2,092,574

WesternZagros Resources Ltd. (a)

   76,800      35,330
         
        378,069,467
         

Total Common Stocks — 94.8%

        509,343,823
         

Warrants Metals & Mining — 0.0%

     

Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp. (issued 4/04/08, 1 share for 1 warrant, expiring 10/04/09, strike price 1.80 CAD) (acquired 4/04/08, cost $2,004) (a)(c)

   206,800      607
         

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $738,332,904) — 94.8%

        509,344,430
         

 

     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
   Value  

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60% (e)(f)

   21,307,492    $ 21,307,492  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17% (e)(f)(g)

   21,459,900      21,459,900  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $42,767,392) — 7.9%

        42,767,392  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $781,100,296*) — 102.7%

        552,111,822  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (2.7)%

        (14,679,110 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 537,432,712  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 791,434,439  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 78,169,944  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (317,492,561 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (239,322,617 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Restricted security as to resale. As of report date the Portfolio held 1.6% of its net assets, with a current market value of $8,493,368 and an original cost of $4,240,159 in these securities.

 

(d) Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors.

 

(e) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 21,307,492 **   $ 68,264

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC

    

Money Market Series

   $ (43,006,300 )***   $ 175,202

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(f) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(g) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

22

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments.

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 521,441,430

Level 2

     19,264,669

Level 3

     11,405,723
      

Total

   $ 552,111,822
      

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for the period ended March 31, 2009:

 

     Investments
in Securities
 
     Assets  

Balance, as of September 30, 2008

   $ 9,733,032  

Accrued discounts/premiums

     —    

Realized gain (loss)

     —    

Change in unrealized appreciation/ depreciation****

     (1,239,663 )

Net purchases (sales)

     —    

Net transfers in of Level 3

     2,912,354  
        

Balance, as of March 31, 2009

   $ 11,405,723  
        

 

  **** Included in the related net change in appreciation/depreciation on the Statement of Operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    23


Statements of Assets and Liabilities

 

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   All-Cap Energy &
Resources
Portfolio
    Aurora
Portfolio
    Capital
Appreciation
Portfolio
    Energy &
Resources
Portfolio
 

Assets

        

Investments at value - unaffiliated1,2

   $ 442,280,835     $ 409,497,798     $ 215,865,179     $ 509,344,430  

Investments at value - affiliated3

     6,933,941       44,216,765       5,365,741       42,767,392  

Cash

     37,326       20,836       —         22,140  

Foreign currency at value4

     1,927       83       —         8,911  

Investments sold receivable

     —         26,065,567       350,204       82,247  

Securities lending income receivable - affiliated

     1,523       7,575       876       7,458  

Capital shares sold receivable

     1,187,828       358,256       374,503       9,289,196  

Dividends and reclaims receivable

     444,682       446,829       202,692       194,476  

Receivable from advisor

     41,182       76,654       8,652       64,046  

Dividends receivable - affiliated

     5,053       5,094       1,301       23,202  

Prepaid expenses

     164,694       97,801       41,881       131,648  

Other assets

     —         17,413       162       51,636  
                                

Total assets

     451,098,991       480,810,671       222,211,191       561,986,782  
                                

Liabilities

        

Collateral at value - securities loaned

     440,000       22,332,800       2,145,000       21,459,900  

Bank overdraft - affiliated

     —         —         89,913       —    

Investments purchased payable

     —         27,063,700       786,205       —    

Investment advisory fees payable

     277,873       296,864       94,108       321,700  

Capital shares redeemed payable

     629,362       1,503,920       165,486       1,903,443  

Other affiliates payable

     270,343       731,327       111,658       482,202  

Printing payable

     181,372       135,147       28,333       162,513  

Service and distribution fees payable

     120,112       214,652       46,161       175,656  

Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

     9,454       11,772       6,768       7,897  

Other accrued expenses payable

     43,873       38,813       29,208       40,759  
                                

Total liabilities

     1,972,389       52,328,995       3,502,840       24,554,070  
                                

Net Assets

   $ 449,126,602     $ 428,481,676     $ 218,708,351     $ 537,432,712  
                                

Net Assets Consist of

        

Paid-in capital

   $ 754,681,969     $ 824,345,961     $ 332,685,782     $ 953,967,744  

Undistributed (accumulated) net investment income (loss)

     4,352,722       5,909,242       829,036       (30,847,376 )

Accumulated net realized loss

     (153,665,384 )     (383,126,547 )     (95,312,387 )     (156,699,124 )

Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (156,242,705 )     (18,646,980 )     (19,494,080 )     (228,988,532 )
                                

Net Assets

   $ 449,126,602     $ 428,481,676     $ 218,708,351     $ 537,432,712  
                                

1 Investments at cost - unaffiliated

   $ 598,523,002     $ 428,144,763     $ 235,359,259     $ 738,332,904  

2 Securities loaned at value

   $ 300,600     $ 22,020,586     $ 2,052,600     $ 20,261,506  

3 Investments at cost - affiliated

   $ 6,933,941     $ 44,216,765     $ 5,365,741     $ 42,767,392  

4 Foreign currency at cost

   $ 2,031     $ 98       —       $ 6,848  

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

24

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Assets and Liabilities (concluded)

 

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   All-Cap Energy &
Resources
Portfolio
   Aurora
Portfolio
   Capital
Appreciation
Portfolio
   Energy &
Resources
Portfolio

Net Asset Value

           

Institutional:

           

Net Assets

   $ 229,162,633    $ 44,606,821    $ 99,147,051    $ 45,693,208
                           

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     27,632,639      3,537,365      8,650,606      2,359,221
                           

Net Asset Value

   $ 8.29    $ 12.61    $ 11.46    $ 19.37
                           

Service:

           

Net Assets

   $ 1,935,639      —        —        —  
                           

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     237,217      —        —        —  
                           

Net Asset Value

   $ 8.16      —        —        —  
                           

Investor A:

           

Net Assets

   $ 122,035,353    $ 272,082,872    $ 94,503,752    $ 395,587,780
                           

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     14,956,650      23,582,295      8,617,929      23,190,095
                           

Net Asset Value

   $ 8.16    $ 11.54    $ 10.97    $ 17.06
                           

Investor B:

           

Net Assets

   $ 21,803,314    $ 53,160,981    $ 10,207,014    $ 23,142,240
                           

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     2,750,956      5,796,846      1,012,011      1,797,383
                           

Net Asset Value

   $ 7.93    $ 9.17    $ 10.09    $ 12.88
                           

Investor C:

           

Net Assets

   $ 74,189,663    $ 57,782,269    $ 14,850,534    $ 73,009,484
                           

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     9,353,625      6,302,523      1,465,377      5,685,997
                           

Net Asset Value

   $ 7.93    $ 9.17    $ 10.13    $ 12.84
                           

R:

           

Net Assets

     —      $ 848,733      —        —  
                           

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     —        74,219      —        —  
                           

Net Asset Value

     —      $ 11.44      —        —  
                           

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    25


Statements of Operations

 

Six Months Ended March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   All-Cap Energy &
Resources
Portfolio
    Aurora
Portfolio
    Capital
Appreciation
Portfolio
    Energy &
Resources
Portfolio
 

Investment Income

        

Dividends and reclaims

   $ 2,943,440     $ 4,346,885     $ 1,511,479     $ 2,381,857  

Securities lending - affiliated

     66,934       149,576       2,535       175,202  

Interest and dividends - affiliated

     15,965       25,118       4,178       69,335  

Interest

     471       878       —         4,215  

Foreign taxes withheld

     (183,315 )     (2,143 )     (3,417 )     (148,482 )
                                

Total investment income

     2,843,495       4,520,314       1,514,775       2,482,127  
                                

Expenses

        

Investment advisory

     1,909,177       2,154,041       661,477       2,040,784  

Service and distribution - class specific

     700,445       1,064,336       242,864       1,010,402  

Transfer agent - class specific

     540,750       1,082,472       217,933       877,202  

Administration

     188,962       188,431       76,324       201,313  

Printing

     129,086       136,080       27,624       114,748  

Administration - class specific

     63,775       63,477       25,431       67,800  

Registration

     56,816       23,500       18,340       41,776  

Custodian

     38,417       29,079       12,188       39,871  

Professional

     32,404       29,538       16,628       31,514  

Officer and Trustees

     11,824       11,016       8,707       12,035  

Miscellaneous

     23,117       16,284       7,360       27,752  
                                

Total expenses

     3,694,773       4,798,254       1,314,876       4,465,197  

Less fees waived by advisor

     (39,220 )     (1,549 )     (116,288 )     (5,294 )

Less administration fees waived - class specific

     (62,944 )     (63,295 )     (12,796 )     (65,351 )

Less transfer agent fees waived - class specific

     (46,257 )     (40,991 )     (4,140 )     (42,735 )

Less transfer agent fees reimbursed - class specific

     (315,691 )     (617,031 )     (22,302 )     (403,209 )

Less fees paid indirectly

     (1,407 )     (2,618 )     (682 )     (1,643 )
                                

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     3,229,254       4,072,770       1,158,668       3,946,965  
                                

Net investment income (loss)

     (385,759 )     447,544       356,107       (1,464,838 )
                                

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

        

Net realized gain (loss) from:

        

Investments

     (154,385,078 )     (253,686,274 )     (42,494,078 )     (153,281,451 )

Foreign currency transactions

     (16,530 )     (67 )     —         517,430  
                                
     (154,401,608 )     (253,686,341 )     (42,494,078 )     (152,764,021 )
                                

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on:

        

Investments

     (218,784,025 )     (20,130,238 )     (18,233,206 )     (290,542,964 )

Foreign currency transactions

     12,279       (16 )     —         (493,585 )
                                
     (218,771,746 )     (20,130,254 )     (18,233,206 )     (291,036,549 )
                                

Total realized and unrealized loss

     (373,173,354 )     (273,816,595 )     (60,727,284 )     (443,800,570 )
                                

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

   $ (373,559,113 )   $ (273,369,051 )   $ (60,371,177 )   $ (445,265,408 )
                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

26

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.]


Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

     All-Cap
Energy &
Resources
Portfolio
 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:

   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 

Operations

    

Net investment income (loss)

   $ (385,759 )   $ 11,336,746  

Net realized gain (loss)

     (154,401,608 )     102,084,945  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (218,771,746 )     (269,024,429 )
                

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

     (373,559,113 )     (155,602,738 )
                

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From

    

Net investment income:

    

Institutional

     —         (4,105,246 )

Service

     —         (16,970 )

Investor A

     —         (1,618,979 )

Investor B

     —         (88,534 )

Investor C

     —         (404,429 )

Tax return of capital:

    

Institutional

     —         —    

Investor A

     —         —    

Investor B

     —         —    

Investor C

     —         —    

R

     —         —    

Net realized gain:

    

Institutional

     (46,056,784 )     (14,094,817 )

Service

     (320,003 )     (71,355 )

Investor A

     (21,057,087 )     (6,879,249 )

Investor B

     (3,991,134 )     (912,837 )

Investor C

     (13,578,948 )     (3,537,720 )

R

     —         —    
                

Decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and distributions to shareholders

     (85,003,956 )     (31,730,136 )
                

Capital Share Transactions

    

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

     (71,319,136 )     (46,293,225 )
                

Redemption Fees

    

Redemption fees

     36,415       86,648  
                

Net Assets

    

Total increase (decrease) in net assets

     (529,845,790 )     (233,539,451 )

Beginning of period

     978,972,392       1,212,511,843  
                

End of period

   $ 449,126,602     $ 978,972,392  
                

End of period undistributed (accumulated) net investment income (loss)

   $ 4,352,722     $ 4,738,481  
                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

28

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Changes in Net Assets (concluded)

 

Aurora Portfolio     Capital Appreciation Portfolio     Energy & Resources Portfolio  

Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)

    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 
$ 447,544     $ (7,096,388 )   $ 356,107     $ (217,917 )   $ (1,464,838 )   $ (7,675,740 )
  (253,686,341 )     (100,132,909 )     (42,494,078 )     9,419,750       (152,764,021 )     213,150,989  
  (20,130,254 )     (166,084,129 )     (18,233,206 )     (56,576,048 )     (291,036,549 )     (357,347,796 )
                                             
  (273,369,051 )     (273,313,426 )     (60,371,177 )     (47,374,215 )     (445,265,408 )     (151,872,547 )
                                             
  —         —         —         —         —         (777,499 )
  —         —         —         —         —         —    
  —         —         —         —         —         (21,815,192 )
  —         —         —         —         —         (2,184,581 )
  —         —         —         —         —         (4,465,841 )
  —         (1,127,041 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (6,120,894 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (2,063,828 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (1,733,899 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (10,832 )     —         —         —         —    
            —    
  —         (30,668,524 )     —         —         (8,049,448 )     (2,796,071 )
  —         —         —         —         —         —    
  —         (162,487,528 )     —         —         (118,212,233 )     (82,411,812 )
  —         (52,727,334 )     —         —         (11,269,678 )     (10,490,630 )
  —         (44,412,046 )     —         —         (30,833,705 )     (20,432,459 )
  —         (294,567 )     —         —         —         —    
                                             
  —         (301,646,493 )     —         —         (168,365,064 )     (145,374,085 )
                                             
  (88,874,299 )     (137,141,667 )     44,211,017       16,036,638       170,535,976       329,664,238  
                                             
  7,727       7,015       —         1,487       150,670       393,391  
                                             
  (362,235,623 )     (712,094,571 )     (16,160,160 )     (31,336,090 )     (442,943,826 )     32,810,997  
  790,717,299       1,502,811,870       234,868,511       266,204,601       980,376,538       947,565,541  
                                             
$ 428,481,676     $ 790,717,299     $ 218,708,351     $ 234,868,511     $ 537,432,712     $ 980,376,538  
                                             
$ 5,909,242     $ 5,461,698     $ 829,036     $ 472,929     $ (30,847,376 )   $ (29,382,538 )
                                             

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    29


Financial Highlights   All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

    Institutional     Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
February 16, 2005to
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
February 16, 2005to
 
    2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005       2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 16.20     $ 19.40     $ 13.85     $ 13.56     $ 10.00     $ 16.01     $ 19.19     $ 13.75     $ 13.52     $ 10.00  
                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)2

    0.01       0.24       0.05       0.02       0.02       (0.01 )     0.12       (0.02 )     (0.02 )     0.03  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (6.30 )     (2.90 )     5.90       0.26       3.54       (6.22 )     (2.83 )     5.86       0.24       3.49  
                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (6.29 )     (2.66 )     5.95       0.28       3.56       (6.23 )     (2.71 )     5.84       0.22       3.52  
                                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

                   

Net investment income

    —         (0.23 )     —         —         —         —         (0.16 )     —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    (1.62 )     (0.31 )     (0.40 )     —         —         (1.62 )     (0.31 )     (0.40 )     —         —    
                                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (1.62 )     (0.54 )     (0.40 )     —         —         (1.62 )     (0.47 )     (0.40 )     —         —    
                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01       0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01       0.00 3
                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 8.29     $ 16.20     $ 19.40     $ 13.85     $ 13.56     $ 8.16     $ 16.01     $ 19.19     $ 13.75     $ 13.52  
                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (38.48 )%4,5     (14.25 )%4     43.66 %4     2.14 %6     35.60 %4,5     (38.56 )%4,5     (14.59 )%4     43.16 %4     1.70 %7     35.20 %4,5
                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    0.93 %8     0.89 %     0.93 %     0.99 %     1.04 %8     1.34 %8     1.25 %     1.33 %     1.34 %     1.34 %8
                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.01 %8     0.89 %     0.93 %     1.01 %     1.54 %8     1.71 %8     1.25 %     1.42 %     1.40 %     1.77 %8
                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.19 %8     1.14 %     0.31 %     0.17 %     0.25 %8     (0.25 )%8     0.56 %     (0.11 )%     (0.17 )%     0.01 %8
                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 229,163     $ 510,804     $ 598,747     $ 337,771     $ 92,147     $ 1,936     $ 4,836     $ 3,435     $ 2,368     $ —   9
                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    11 %     38 %     31 %     41 %     12 %     11 %     38 %     31 %     41 %     12 %
                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

30

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)   All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

    Investor A     Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
February 16, 2005to
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
February 16, 2005to
 
    2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005       2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 16.01     $ 19.18     $ 13.75     $ 13.50     $ 10.00     $ 15.68     $ 18.82     $ 13.59     $ 13.44     $ 10.00  
                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)2

    (0.01 )     0.17       (0.02 )     (0.02 )     0.00 3     (0.04 )     0.01       (0.13 )     (0.12 )     (0.05 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (6.22 )     (2.87 )     5.85       0.26       3.50       (6.09 )     (2.81 )     5.76       0.26       3.49  
                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (6.23 )     (2.70 )     5.83       0.24       3.50       (6.13 )     (2.80 )     5.63       0.14       3.44  
                                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

                   

Net investment income

    —         (0.16 )     —         —         —         —         (0.03 )     —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    (1.62 )     (0.31 )     (0.40 )     —         —         (1.62 )     (0.31 )     (0.40 )     —         —    
                                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (1.62 )     (0.47 )     (0.40 )     —         —         (1.62 )     (0.34 )     (0.40 )     —         —    
                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01       0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01       0.00 3
                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 8.16     $ 16.01     $ 19.18     $ 13.75     $ 13.50     $ 7.93     $ 15.68     $ 18.82     $ 13.59     $ 13.44  
                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value10

    (38.56 )%4,5     (14.55 )%4     43.09 %4     1.85 %7     35.00 %4,5     (38.76 )%4,5     (15.23 )%4     42.11 %4     1.12 %6     34.40 %4,5
                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.34 %8     1.26 %     1.31 %     1.34 %     1.34 %8     2.04 %8     2.04 %     2.04 %     2.04 %     2.04 %8
                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.61 %8     1.27 %     1.34 %     1.46 %     1.87 %8     2.48 %8     2.09 %     2.23 %     2.13 %     2.49 %8
                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.23 )%8     0.81 %     (0.10 )%     (0.16 )%     0.01 %8     (0.91 )%8     0.06 %     (0.82 )%     (0.86 )%     (0.64 )%8
                                                                               

Supplemental Data

                   

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 122,035     $ 267,422     $ 347,598     $ 248,557     $ 87,949     $ 21,803     $ 42,399     $ 55,538     $ 43,477     $ 16,019  
                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    11 %     38 %     31 %     41 %     12 %     11 %     38 %     31 %     41 %     12 %
                                                                               

 

1 Commencement of operations.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.08%.

 

7 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.07%.

 

8 Annualized.

 

9 Net assets end of period are less than $500.

 

10 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    31


Financial Highlights (continued)   All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

    Investor C  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
February 16, 2005to
 
      2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.69     $ 18.84     $ 13.60     $ 13.46     $ 10.00  
                                       

Net investment income (loss)2

    (0.04 )     0.02       (0.13 )     (0.12 )     (0.05 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (6.10 )     (2.82 )     5.77       0.25       3.51  
                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (6.14 )     (2.80 )     5.64       0.13       3.46  
                                       

Dividends and distributions from:

         

Net investment income

    —         (0.04 )     —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    (1.62 )     (0.31 )     (0.40 )     —         —    
                                       

Total dividends and distributions

    (1.62 )     (0.35 )     (0.40 )     —         —    
                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01       0.00 3
                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 7.93     $ 15.69     $ 18.84     $ 13.60     $ 13.46  
                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value4

    (38.80 )%5,6     (15.21 )%5     42.15 %5     1.04 %7     34.60 %5,6
                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.04 %8     2.01 %     2.04 %     2.04 %     2.04 %8
                                       

Total expenses

    2.35 %8     2.02 %     2.12 %     2.09 %     2.48 %8
                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.92 )%8     0.08 %     (0.83 )%     (0.86 )%     (0.70 )%8
                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 74,190     $ 153,512     $ 207,194     $ 136,120     $ 48,288  
                                       

Portfolio turnover

    11 %     38 %     31 %     41 %     12 %
                                       

 

1 Commencement of operations.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Aggregate total investment return.

 

7 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.07%.

 

8 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

32

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)   Aurora Portfolio

 

    Institutional  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,  
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 19.49     $ 30.87     $ 37.15     $ 43.43     $ 40.71     $ 33.18  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.05 1     (0.02 )1     0.10 1     0.08 1     (0.04 )1     (0.11 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (6.93 )     (5.34 )     4.82       1.13       6.60       7.66  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (6.88 )     (5.36 )     4.92       1.21       6.56       7.55  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Tax return of capital

    —         (0.21 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (5.81 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (6.02 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 12.61     $ 19.49     $ 30.87     $ 37.15     $ 43.43     $ 40.71  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (35.30 )%3,4     (21.60 )%3,5     14.86 %3     3.40 %3     16.62 %3     22.75 %
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.05 %6     1.05 %     1.01 %     1.06 %     1.14 %     1.10 %
                                               

Total expenses

    1.41 %6     1.28 %     1.11 %     1.07 %     1.14 %     1.10 %
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.74 %6     (0.08 )%     0.32 %     0.22 %     (0.09 )%     (0.27 )%
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 44,606     $ 81,400     $ 169,479     $ 153,103     $ 165,837     $ 197,475  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    148 %     147 %     134 %     142 %     73 %     33 %
                                               

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Payment from affiliate of $139,965 received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    33


Financial Highlights (continued)    Aurora Portfolio

 

    Investor A     Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,  
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004     (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 17.86     $ 28.75     $ 35.39     $ 41.88     $ 39.49     $ 32.28     $ 14.26     $ 24.06     $ 31.48     $ 38.32     $ 36.67     $ 30.19  
                                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.02 1     (0.10 )1     0.01 1     (0.05 )1     (0.16 )1     (0.22 )     (0.02 )1     (0.21 )1     (0.19 )1     (0.29 )1     (0.40 )1     (0.45 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (6.34 )     (4.91 )     4.55       1.05       6.39       7.45       (5.07 )     (3.92 )     3.97       0.94       5.89       6.95  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (6.32 )     (5.01 )     4.56       1.00       6.23       7.23       (5.09 )     (4.13 )     3.78       0.65       5.49       6.50  
                                                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

                       

Tax return of capital

    —         (0.21 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.21 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (5.67 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )     —         (5.46 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )
                                                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (5.88 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )     —         (5.67 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.54     $ 17.86     $ 28.75     $ 35.39     $ 41.88     $ 39.49     $ 9.17     $ 14.26     $ 24.06     $ 31.48     $ 38.32     $ 36.67  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (35.39 )%4,5     (21.92 )%4,6     14.48 %4     2.95 %4     16.28 %4     22.39 %     (35.69 )%4,5     (22.47 )%4,6     13.56 %4     2.18 %4     15.44 %4     21.53 %
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.44 %7     1.42 %     1.39 %     1.44 %     1.40 %     1.40 %     2.19 %7     2.18 %     2.16 %     2.19 %     2.14 %     2.10 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.70 %7     1.45 %     1.40 %     1.56 %     1.47 %     1.40 %     2.57 %7     2.32 %     2.24 %     2.23 %     2.15 %     2.10 %
                                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.35 %7     (0.44 )%     0.03 %     (0.15 )%     (0.36 )%     (0.57 )%     (0.42 )%7     (1.21 )%     (0.75 )%     (0.90 )%     (1.10 )%     (1.27 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 272,083     $ 481,193     $ 871,699     $ 1,189,440     $ 1,690,497     $ 2,169,836     $ 53,161     $ 119,213     $ 250,672     $ 329,207     $ 436,642     $ 470,430  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    148 %     147 %     134 %     142 %     73 %     33 %     148 %     147 %     134 %     142 %     73 %     33 %
                                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

34

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Aurora Portfolio

 

    Investor C     R  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30,
    Period
October 2, 2006to
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004     (Unaudited)     2008     September 30, 2007  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.25     $ 24.07     $ 31.47     $ 38.32     $ 36.67     $ 30.18     $ 17.72     $ 28.70     $ 35.21  
                                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.02 )1     (0.21 )1     (0.18 )1     (0.29 )1     (0.42 )1     (0.45 )     0.01 1     (0.13 )1     (0.16 )1

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (5.06 )     (3.93 )     3.98       0.93       5.91       6.96       (6.29 )     (4.83 )     4.85  
                                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (5.08 )     (4.14 )     3.80       0.64       5.49       6.51       (6.28 )     (4.96 )     4.69  
                                                                       

Dividends and distributions from:

                 

Tax return of capital

    —         (0.21 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.21 )     —    

Net realized gain

    —         (5.47 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )     —         (5.81 )     (11.20 )
                                                                       

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (5.68 )     (11.20 )     (7.49 )     (3.84 )     (0.02 )     —         (6.02 )     (11.20 )
                                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 9.17     $ 14.25     $ 24.07     $ 31.47     $ 38.32     $ 36.67     $ 11.44     $ 17.72     $ 28.70  
                                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (35.65 )%4,5     (22.50 )%3,4,6     13.64 %3,4     2.16 %3,4     15.45 %3,4     21.57 %3     (35.44 )%4,5     (21.90 )%4,6     14.87 %4,5
                                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.19 %7     2.17 %     2.13 %     2.19 %     2.14 %     2.10 %     1.60 %7     1.58 %     1.50 %7
                                                                       

Total expenses

    2.44 %7     2.23 %     2.17 %     2.22 %     2.15 %     2.10 %     1.88 %7     1.71 %     1.50 %7
                                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.41 )%7     (1.20 )%     (0.72 )%     (0.90 )%     (1.10 )%     (1.27 )%     0.19 %7     (0.60 )%     (0.57 )%7
                                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 57,782     $ 107,555     $ 209,820     $ 283,562     $ 405,952     $ 493,980     $ 849     $ 1,356     $ 1,141  
                                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    148 %     147 %     134 %     142 %     73 %     33 %     148 %     147 %     134 %
                                                                       

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Payment from affiliate of $139,965 received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

7 Annualized.

 

8 Commencement of operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    35


Financial Highlights (continued)    Capital Appreciation Portfolio

 

    Institutional  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
November 1, 2004 to
    Year Ended
October 31,
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     2004     2003  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.25     $ 18.21     $ 14.91     $ 14.19     $ 12.78     $ 12.17     $ 10.14  
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    0.05 1     0.07 1     0.06 1     0.00 1,2     0.05 1     (0.04 )     (0.02 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.84 )     (3.03 )     3.24       0.72       1.36       0.65       2.05  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.79 )     (2.96 )     3.30       0.72       1.41       0.61       2.03  
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.46     $ 15.25     $ 18.21     $ 14.91     $ 14.19     $ 12.78     $ 12.17  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (24.85 )%3     (16.26 )%4     22.13 %4     5.07 %4     11.03 %3,4,5     5.01 %     20.02 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    0.70 %6     0.70 %     0.75 %     0.95 %     1.05 %6     1.14 %     1.08 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    0.88 %6     0.85 %     0.88 %     1.00 %     1.15 %6     1.14 %     1.08 %
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    0.81 %6     0.42 %     0.38 %     0.00 %7     0.43 %6     (0.31 )%     (0.19 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 99,147     $ 77,323     $ 71,072     $ 48,146     $ 52,154     $ 52,399     $ 60,878  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    43 %     80 %     97 %     87 %     70 %     91 %     113 %
                                                       
    Investor A  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
November 1, 2004 to
    Year Ended
October 31,
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     2004     2003  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.59     $ 17.56     $ 14.46     $ 13.82     $ 12.47     $ 11.91     $ 9.96  
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    0.01 1     (0.02 )1     (0.02 )1     (0.06 )1     0.02 1     (0.08 )     (0.05 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.63 )     (2.95 )     3.12       0.70       1.33       0.64       2.00  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.62 )     (2.97 )     3.10       0.64       1.35       0.56       1.95  
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.97     $ 14.59     $ 17.56     $ 14.46     $ 13.82     $ 12.47     $ 11.91  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value8

    (24.81 )%3     (16.91 )%4     21.44 %4     4.63 %4     10.83 %3,4,5     4.70 %     19.58 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.30 %6     1.23 %     1.28 %     1.35 %     1.31 %6     1.44 %     1.38 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    1.42 %6     1.33 %     1.35 %     1.53 %     1.48 %6     1.44 %     1.38 %
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    0.17 %6     (0.10 )%     (0.16 )%     (0.40 )%     0.21 %6     (0.62 )%     (0.47 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 94,504     $ 125,521     $ 131,712     $ 112,737     $ 120,371     $ 99,435     $ 103,247  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    43 %     80 %     97 %     87 %     70 %     91 %     113 %
                                                       

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

36

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Capital Appreciation Portfolio

 

     Investor B  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
November 1, 2004 to
    Year Ended
October 31,
 
   (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     2004     2003  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 13.51     $ 16.34     $ 13.56     $ 13.06     $ 11.86     $ 11.41     $ 9.61  
                                                        

Net investment loss

     (0.03 )1     (0.14 )1     (0.14 )1     (0.16 )1     (0.06 )1     (0.15 )     (0.12 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (3.39 )     (2.69 )     2.92       0.66       1.26       0.60       1.92  
                                                        

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (3.42 )     (2.83 )     2.78       0.50       1.20       0.45       1.80  
                                                        

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     —         0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —    
                                                        

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 10.09     $ 13.51     $ 16.34     $ 13.56     $ 13.06     $ 11.86     $ 11.41  
                                                        

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value8

     (25.32 )%3     (17.32 )%4     20.50 %4     3.83 %4     10.12 %3,4,9     3.94 %     18.73 %
                                                        

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.10 %6     2.00 %     2.07 %     2.10 %     2.05 %6     2.14 %     2.08 %
                                                        

Total expenses

     2.35 %6     2.11 %     2.20 %     2.20 %     2.15 %6     2.14 %     2.08 %
                                                        

Net investment loss

     (0.63 )%6     (0.87 )%     (0.95 )%     (1.16 )%     (0.53 )%6     (1.31 )%     (1.17 )%
                                                        

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 10,207     $ 19,663     $ 48,260     $ 71,078     $ 85,465     $ 97,938     $ 108,125  
                                                        

Portfolio turnover

     43 %     80 %     97 %     87 %     70 %     91 %     113 %
                                                        

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Aggregate total investment return.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 The total return includes an increase of 0.08% related to payments made by the previous investment advisor prior to January 31, 2005.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Less than 0.01%

 

8 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

9 The total return includes an increase of 0.09% related to payments made by the previous investment advisor prior to January 31, 2005.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    37


Financial Highlights (continued)    Capital Appreciation Portfolio

 

    Investor C  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
November 1, 2004 to
    Year Ended
October 31,
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     2004     2003  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 13.56     $ 16.38     $ 13.57     $ 13.06     $ 11.86     $ 11.41     $ 9.61  
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.02 )1     (0.11 )1     (0.12 )1     (0.15 )1     (0.06 )1     (0.15 )     (0.11 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.41 )     (2.71 )     2.93       0.66       1.26       0.60       1.91  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.43 )     (2.82 )     2.81       0.51       1.20       0.45       1.80  
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.13     $ 13.56     $ 16.38     $ 13.57     $ 13.06     $ 11.86     $ 11.41  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (25.30 )%4     (17.22 )%5     20.71 %5     3.91 %5     10.12 %4,5,6     3.94 %     18.73 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.88 %7     1.85 %     1.92 %     2.04 %     2.05 %7     2.14 %     2.08 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    1.99 %7     1.96 %     1.99 %     2.10 %     2.15 %7     2.14 %     2.08 %
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.39 )%7     (0.73 )%     (0.80 )%     (1.10 )%     (0.51 )%7     (1.30 )%     (1.15 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 14,851     $ 12,361     $ 15,160     $ 17,079     $ 20,570     $ 23,854     $ 30,516  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    43 %     80 %     97 %     87 %     70 %     91 %     113 %
                                                       

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 The total return includes an increase of 0.09% related to payments made by the previous investment advisor prior to January 31, 2005.

 

7 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

38

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

    Institutional  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
    Period
July 1, 2004 to
February 28, 2005
    Year Ended
June 30,
2004
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005      

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 51.31     $ 63.42     $ 68.57     $ 79.62     $ 58.80     $ 41.25     $ 26.85  
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.01 )1     (0.13 )1     (0.02 )1     0.57 1     0.15 1     (0.08 )     0.27  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (22.90 )     (2.78 )     14.26       (2.50 )     20.67       19.52       14.78  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (22.91 )     (2.91 )     14.24       (1.93 )     20.82       19.44       15.05  
                                                       

Dividends and distributions from:

             

Net investment income

    —         (2.01 )     (0.81 )     (0.53 )     —         (0.34 )     (0.65 )

Net realized gain

    (9.04 )     (7.22 )     (18.58 )     (8.60 )     —         (1.55 )     —    
                                                       

Total dividends and distributions

    (9.04 )     (9.23 )     (19.39 )     (9.13 )     —         (1.89 )     (0.65 )
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.01       0.03       0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 19.37     $ 51.31     $ 63.42     $ 68.57     $ 79.62     $ 58.80     $ 41.25  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (45.14 )%3,4     (6.77 )%3     23.55 %5     (2.89 )%6     35.41 %4,5     47.95 %4     56.49 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.03 %7     0.92 %     1.03 %     0.98 %     1.04 %7     1.01 %7     1.04 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    1.08 %7     0.92 %     1.07 %     1.02 %     1.18 %7     1.02 %7     1.04 %
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.12 )%7     (0.18 )%     (0.03 )%     0.76 %     0.42 %7     (0.16 )%7     0.79 %
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 45,693     $ 82,147     $ 37,498     $ 35,010     $ 40,906 7   $ 29,188 7   $ 20,044  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    17 %     32 %     15 %     27 %     9 %     22 %     27 %
                                                       

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.03%.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.02%.

 

7 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    39


Financial Highlights (continued)    Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

    Investor A  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
   

Period

July 1, 2004 to

    Year Ended
June 30,
2004
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     February 28, 2005    

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 47.29     $ 59.02     $ 64.90     $ 76.01     $ 56.23     $ 39.58     $ 25.81  
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.04 )1     (0.32 )1     (0.16 )1     0.32 1     0.03 1     (0.15 )     0.21  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (21.16 )     (2.29 )     13.41       (2.36 )     19.75       18.69       14.15  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (21.20 )     (2.61 )     13.25       (2.04 )     19.78       18.54       14.36  
                                                       

Dividends and distributions from:

             

Net investment income

    —         (1.92 )     (0.55 )     (0.48 )     —         (0.34 )     (0.59 )

Net realized gain

    (9.04 )     (7.22 )     (18.58 )     (8.60 )     —         (1.55 )     —    
                                                       

Total dividends and distributions

    (9.04 )     (9.14 )     (19.13 )     (9.08 )     —         (1.89 )     (0.59 )
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.01       0.02       0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.06     $ 47.29     $ 59.02     $ 64.90     $ 76.01     $ 56.23     $ 39.58  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (45.38 )%4,5     (6.78 )%6     23.25 %7     (3.20 )%6     35.18 %5,7     47.69 %5     56.06 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.32 %8     1.25 %     1.29 %     1.30 %     1.34 %8     1.36 %8     1.34 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    1.52 %8     1.25 %     1.30 %     1.41 %     1.52 %8     1.38 %8     1.34 %
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.41 )%8     (0.49 )%     (0.28 )%     0.44 %     0.10 %8     (0.52 )%8     0.64 %
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 395,588     $ 689,646     $ 685,590     $ 683,417     $ 877,120 8   $ 676,234 8   $ 406,209  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    17 %     32 %     15 %     27 %     9 %     22 %     27 %
                                                       

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

40

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)   Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

     Investor B  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
   

 

Year Ended September 30,

    Period
March 1, 2005 to

September 30, 2005
    Period
July 1, 2004 to

February 28, 2005
    Year Ended
June 30, 2004
 
       2008     2007     2006        

Per Share Operating Performance

              

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 39.68     $ 50.87     $ 58.19     $ 69.43     $ 51.58     $ 36.52     $ 23.89  
                                                        

Net investment loss

     (0.10 )1     (0.67 )1     (0.50 )1     (0.18 )1     (0.19 )1     (0.32 )     (0.06 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (17.67 )     (1.81 )     11.82       (2.09 )     18.04       17.18       13.14  
                                                        

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (17.77 )     (2.48 )     11.32       (2.27 )     17.85       16.86       13.08  
                                                        

Dividends and distributions from:

              

Net investment income

     —         (1.51 )     (0.06 )     (0.38 )     —         (0.25 )     (0.45 )

Net realized gain

     (9.04 )     (7.22 )     (18.58 )     (8.60 )     —         (1.55 )     —    
                                                        

Total dividends and distributions

     (9.04 )     (8.73 )     (18.64 )     (8.98 )     —         (1.80 )     (0.45 )
                                                        

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.01       0.02       0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                        

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 12.88     $ 39.68     $ 50.87     $ 58.19     $ 69.43     $ 51.58     $ 36.52  
                                                        

Total Investment Return

              

Based on net asset value3

     (45.48 )%5,9     (7.63 )%6     22.35 %7     (3.91 )%6     34.60 %5,7     47.09 %5     55.07 %
                                                        

Ratios to Average Net Assets

              

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.04 %8     2.00 %     2.03 %     2.02 %     2.04 %8     2.01 %8     2.04 %
                                                        

Total expenses

     2.32 %8     2.01 %     2.08 %     2.09 %     2.18 %8     2.02 %8     2.04 %
                                                        

Net investment loss

     (1.12 )%8     (1.24 )%     (1.01 )%     (0.27 )%     (0.60 )%8     (1.17 )%8     (0.20 )%
                                                        

Net investment income (loss)

              

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 23,142     $ 57,174     $ 80,178     $ 87,636     $ 117,845 8   $ 94,506 8   $ 66,704  
                                                        

Portfolio turnover

     17 %     32 %     15 %     27 %     9 %     22 %     27 %
                                                        

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.03%.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.02%.

 

7 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

8 Annualized.

 

9 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.04%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    41


Financial Highlights (concluded)   Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

     Investor C  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
   

 

Year Ended September 30,

    Period
March 1, 2005 to

September 30, 2005
    Period
July 1, 2004 to

February 28, 2005
    Year Ended
June 30, 2004
 
       2008     2007     2006        

Per Share Operating Performance

              

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 39.61     $ 50.84     $ 58.13     $ 69.37     $ 51.53     $ 36.48     $ 23.88  
                                                        

Net investment loss

     (0.10 )1     (0.66 )1     (0.50 )1     (0.17 )1     (0.19 )1     (0.30 )     (0.03 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (17.63 )     (1.79 )     11.83       (2.10 )     18.03       17.14       13.10  
                                                        

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (17.73 )     (2.45 )     11.33       (2.27 )     17.84       16.84       13.07  
                                                        

Dividends and distributions from:

              

Net investment income

     —         (1.58 )     (0.04 )     (0.38 )     —         (0.24 )     (0.47 )

Net realized gain

     (9.04 )     (7.22 )     (18.58 )     (8.60 )     —         (1.55 )     —    
                                                        

Total dividends and distributions

     (9.04 )     (8.80 )     (18.62 )     (8.98 )     —         (1.79 )     (0.47 )
                                                        

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.02       0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                        

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 12.84     $ 39.61     $ 50.84     $ 58.13     $ 69.37     $ 51.53     $ 36.48  
                                                        

Total Investment Return

              

Based on net asset value3

     (45.49 )%4,5     (7.57 )%6     22.36 %4     (3.92 )%7     34.62 %4,5     47.01 %5     55.05 %
                                                        

Ratios to Average Net Assets

              

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.04 %8     1.96 %     2.01 %     2.01 %     2.04 %8     2.01 %8     2.04 %
                                                        

Total expenses

     2.22 %8     1.96 %     2.02 %     2.05 %     2.17 %8     2.02 %8     2.04 %
                                                        

Net investment loss

     (1.13 )%8     (1.21 )%     (1.00 )%     (0.26 )%     (0.61 )%8     (1.17 )%8     (0.10 )%
                                                        

Net investment income (loss)

              

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 73,009     $ 151,409     $ 144,300     $ 147,723     $ 201,265 8   $ 169,871 8   $ 122,088  
                                                        

Portfolio turnover

     17 %     32 %     15 %     27 %     9 %     22 %     27 %
                                                        

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.02%.

 

7 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.01%.

 

8 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

42

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies:

BlackRock FundsSM (the “Fund”), a Massachusetts business trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. As of March 31, 2009, the Fund had 27 registered portfolios, of which the BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio (“All-Cap Energy & Resources”), BlackRock Aurora Portfolio (“Aurora”), BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio (“Capital Appreciation”) and BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio (“Energy & Resources Portfolio”) (collectively the “Portfolios”) are included in these financial statements. The Portfolios’ financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Portfolio offers multiple classes of shares. Institutional Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain eligible investors. Service Shares are sold without a sales charge. Investor A Shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares of Investor B and Investor C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. R Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain retirement and other similar plans. All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except that the Service, Investor A, Investor B, Investor C and R Shares may bear certain expenses related to the service and/or distribution of such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to matters relating to its service and distribution expenditures (except that Investor B shareholders may vote on material changes to the Investor A distribution plan).

Fund Reorganization:

The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of the Fund on behalf of Capital Appreciation and the shareholders of the PNC Equity Growth Fund, a series of the PNC Funds, Inc., approved a reorganization (the “Reorganization”), which was a tax-free event that took place on November 17, 2008.

 

Target Fund

 

Acquiring Portfolio

PNC Equity Growth Fund

  Capital Appreciation

Under the agreement and plan of reorganization with respect to the Reorganization, PNC Equity Growth Fund Investor A Shares, Investor C Shares and Institutional Shares were exchanged for Capital Appreciation Investor A Shares and Institutional Shares. The conversion ratio for each Share class was as follows:

 

PNC Equity Growth Fund/ Capital Appreciation

  

Investor A/ Investor A

   0.43269926

Investor C/ Investor A

   0.41215351

Institutional/ Institutional

   0.42252433

The net assets before and after the Reorganization and shares issued and redeemed in the Reorganization were as follows:

 

BlackRock Portfolio

   Net Assets Combined
After Reorganization as of
November 17, 2008
   Net Assets Prior to
Reorganization as of
November 17, 2008
   Shares Issued    PNC Equity Growth Fund
Shares Redeemed

Capital Appreciation

   $ 192,543,523    $ 182,664,682    868,487    2,054,276

Included in the net assets acquired were the following components:

 

PNC Fund

   Paid In Capital    Net
Unrealized
Depreciation
    Net
Assets

PNC Equity Growth Fund

   $ 15,211,923    $ (5,333,082 )   $ 9,878,841

The following Portfolios of the Fund changed their names on February 2, 2009:

 

Former Name

 

New Name

BlackRock All-Cap Global Resources Portfolio   BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio
BlackRock Global Resources Portfolio   BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolios:

Valuation of Investments: Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange or the NASDAQ Global Market System are valued at the last reported sale price that day or the NASDAQ official closing price, if applicable. For equity investments traded on more than one exchange, the last reported sale price on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded is used. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last available bid price. If no bid price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the security. Short-term securities with maturities less than 60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments in investment companies are valued at the net asset value each business day. The Portfolios value their investments in the BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series at fair value, which is ordinarily based upon their pro rata ownership in the net assets of the underlying fund.

In the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment which is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, the investment will be valued by a method approved by the Board as reflecting fair value (“Fair Value Assets”). When determining the price for Fair Value Assets, the investment advisor seeks to determine the price that the Portfolios might reasonably expect to receive from the current sale of that asset in an

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    43


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the investment advisor deems relevant. The pricing of all Fair Value Assets is subsequently reported to the Board or a committee thereof.

Generally, trading in foreign securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). The values of such securities used in computing the net assets of a Portfolio are determined as of such times. Foreign currency exchange rates will be determined as of the close of business on the NYSE. Occasionally, events affecting the values of such securities and such exchange rates may occur between the times at which they are determined and the close of business on the NYSE that may not be reflected in the computation of the Portfolios’ net assets. If events (for example, a company announcement, market volatility or a natural disaster) occur during such periods that are expected to materially affect the value of such securities, those securities may be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith by the Board or by the investment advisor using a pricing service and/or procedures approved by the Board. Foreign currency exchange contracts and forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. Interpolated values are derived when the settlement date of the contract is an interim date for which quotations are not available.

Derivative Financial Instruments: The Portfolios may engage in various portfolio investment strategies to both increase the return of the Portfolios and to hedge, or protect, their exposure to interest rate movements and movements in the securities markets. Losses may arise if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the price of the underlying security, or if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.

 

 

Forward Currency Contracts – A forward currency contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency at a set exchange rate on a future date. The Portfolios may enter into forward currency contracts as a hedge against either specific transactions or portfolio positions. Forward currency contracts, when used by a Portfolio, help to manage the overall exposure to the foreign currency backing some of the investments held by the Portfolio. The contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded by a Portfolio as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, a Portfolio records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of forward currency contracts involves the risk that counterparties may not meet the terms of the agreement and market risk of unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the US dollar.

Foreign Currency Transactions: Foreign currency amounts are translated into United States dollars on the following basis: (i) market value of investment securities, assets and liabilities at the current rate of exchange; and (ii) purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions.

The Portfolios report foreign currency related transactions as components of realized gains for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

Segregation and Collateralization: In cases in which the 1940 Act and the interpretive positions of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) require that each Portfolio segregate assets in connection with certain investments (e.g., forward currency contracts), each Portfolio will, consistent with certain interpretive letters issued by the SEC, designate on its books and records cash or other liquid debt securities having a market value at least equal to the amount that would otherwise be required to be physically segregated. Furthermore, based on requirements and agreements with certain exchanges and third party broker-dealers, each Portfolio may also be required to deliver or deposit securities as collateral for certain investments (e.g., forward currency contracts).

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Portfolio has determined the ex-dividend date. Upon notification from issuers, some of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Income, realized and unrealized gains and losses of the Portfolios are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

Dividends and Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by the Portfolios are recorded on the ex-dividend dates.

Securities Lending: The Portfolios may lend securities to financial institutions that provide cash which will be maintained at all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Portfolios and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Portfolios on the next business day. The Portfolios typically receive income on the loaned securities but do not receive the income on the collateral. The Portfolios may invest the cash collateral and retain the amount earned on such investment, net of any amount rebated to the borrower. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions. The Portfolios may pay reasonable lending agent, administrative and custodial fees in connection with their loans. In the event that the borrower defaults on its obligation to return borrowed securities because of insolvency or for any other reason, the Portfolios could experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The

 

44

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Portfolios also could suffer a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of loaned securities.

Income Taxes: It is each Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of their taxable income to their shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax may be imposed on interest, dividends and capital gains at various rates.

The Portfolios file US federal and various state and local tax returns. No income tax returns are currently under examination. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s US federal income tax returns remain open for each of the four years ended September 30, 2008. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s state and local tax returns may remain open for an additional year depending upon the jurisdiction.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement: In March 2008, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”), was issued. FAS 161 is intended to improve financial reporting for derivative instruments by requiring enhanced disclosure that enables investors to understand how and why an entity uses derivatives, how derivatives are accounted for, and how derivative instruments affect an entity’s results of operations and financial position. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The impact on each Portfolio’s financial statement disclosures is currently being assessed.

Other: Expenses directly related to a Portfolio or class are charged to that Portfolio or class. Other operating expenses shared by several funds are pro-rated among those funds on the basis of relative net assets or other appropriate methods. Other expenses of a Portfolio are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

2. Investment Advisory Agreement and Other Transactions with Affiliates:

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Advisor”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc., to provide investment advisory services. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) and Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”) are the largest stockholders of BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BAC became a stockholder of BlackRock following its acquisition of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. (“Merrill Lynch”) on January 1, 2009. Prior to that date, both PNC and Merrill Lynch were considered affiliates of the Fund under the 1940 Act. Subsequent to the acquisition, PNC remains an affiliate, but due to the restructuring of Merrill Lynch’s ownership interest of BlackRock, BAC is not deemed to be an affiliate under the 1940 Act.

The Advisor is responsible for the management of each Portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services necessary to the operations of the Portfolios. For such services, each Portfolio pays the Advisor a monthly fee based on the average daily value of the Portfolio’s net assets, at the following annual rates:

 

Average Daily Net Assets

   All-Cap
Energy &
Resources
    Aurora     Capital
Appreciation
    Energy &
Resources
 

First $1 Billion

   0.750 %   0.850 %   0.650 %   0.750 %

$1 Billion - $2 Billion

   0.700     0.800     0.600     0.700  

$2 Billion - $3 Billion

   0.675     0.750     0.575     0.675  

Greater Than $3 Billion

   0.650     0.700     0.550     0.650  

The Advisor contractually agreed to waive or reimburse fees or expenses until February 1, 2010, in order to limit expenses. These expense limits apply to the aggregate expenses incurred on a share class (excluding: interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, expenses incurred as a result of investments in other funds and other expenses attributable to, and incurred as a result of, a Portfolio’s investments and other extraordinary expenses). This agreement is reviewed annually by the Board. The current expense limitations as a percentage of net assets are as follows:

 

Share Classes

   All-Cap
Energy &
Resources
    Aurora     Capital
Appreciation
    Energy &
Resources
 

Institutional

   0.93 %   1.05 %   0.70 %   1.04 %

Service

   1.34 %   1.44 %1   1.35 %1   1.34 %1

Investor A

   1.34 %   1.44 %   1.35 %   1.34 %

Investor B

   2.04 %   2.19 %   2.10 %   2.04 %

Investor C

   2.04 %   2.19 %   2.10 %   2.04 %

R

   1.78 %1   1.60 %   1.94 %1   1.88 %1

 

1 There were no shares outstanding as of March 31, 2009.

PFPC Trust Company, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as custodian for each Portfolio. For these services, the custodian receives a fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily gross assets of each Portfolio. The fee is paid at the following annual rates: 0.005% of the first $400 million, 0.004% of the next $1.6 billion, and 0.003% of average daily gross assets in excess of $2 billion; plus per transaction charges and other miscellaneous fees incurred on behalf of each Portfolio.

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc. (“PNCGIS”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Each class of each Portfolio bears the costs of transfer agent fees associated with such respective class. Transfer agent fees borne by each class of each Portfolio are comprised of those fees charged for all shareholder communications including mailing of shareholder reports, dividend and distribution notices, and proxy materials for shareholders meetings, as well as per account and per transaction fees related to servicing and maintenance of shareholder accounts, including the issuing, redeeming and transferring of shares of each class of each Portfolio, 12b-1 fee calculations, check writing, anti-money laundering services, and customer identification services.

Pursuant to written agreements, Merrill Lynch and certain other affiliates provide the Portfolios with sub-accounting, recordkeeping, sub-transfer agency and other administrative services with respect to sub-accounts they service. For these services, affiliates receive an annual fee per

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    45


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

shareholder account which will vary depending on share class. The Portfolios incurred the following fees in return for these services, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations:

 

     Merrill Lynch    Other Affiliates
     Period
October 1, 2008

to
December 31, 2008
   Six Months
Ended

March 31, 2009

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 25,974    $ 212

Aurora

     116,744      14,689

Capital Appreciation

     5,674      15,010

Energy & Resources

     37,618      272

PNCGIS and the Advisor act as co-administrators for the Portfolios. For these services, the co-administrators receive a combined administration fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily net assets of each Portfolio. The combined administration fee is based on a percentage of the average daily net assets at the following annual rates: 0.075% of the first $500 million, 0.065% of the next $500 million and 0.055% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, each of the share classes is charged an administration fee based on the following percentages of average daily net assets of each respective class: 0.025% of the first $500 million of each Portfolio, 0.015% of the next $500 million and 0.005% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, PNCGIS and the Advisor may have, at their discretion, voluntarily waived all or any portion of their administration fees for a Portfolio or a share class.

The Portfolios have received an exemptive order from the SEC permitting them to lend portfolio securities to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith (“MLPF&S”) or its affiliates. Pursuant to that order, the Portfolios have retained BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (“BIM”), an affiliate of the Advisor, as the securities lending agent for a fee based on a share of the returns on investment of cash collateral. BIM may, on behalf of the Portfolios, invest cash collateral received by the Portfolios for such loans, among other things, in a private investment company managed by the Advisor or in registered money market funds advised by the Advisor or its affiliates. The share of income earned by the Portfolios on such investments is shown as securities lending—affiliated on the Statements of Operations.

The securities lending agent fees received by BIM were as follows:

 

     Securities lending
agent fees for the
six months ended
March 31, 2009

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 13,768

Aurora

     33,287

Capital Appreciation

     261

Energy & Resources

     40,208

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, has entered into a separate Distribution Agreement and Distribution Plan with BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BIL”), an affiliate of BlackRock. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, the Portfolios pay BIL ongoing service and distribution fees. The fees are accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates based upon the average daily net assets of the shares of each Portfolio as follows:

 

     Service
Fee
    Distribution
Fee
 

Service

   0.25 %   —    

Investor A

   0.25 %   —    

Investor B

   0.25 %   0.75 %

Investor C

   0.25 %   0.75 %

R

   0.25 %   0.25 %

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the Portfolios paid to affiliates the following fees in return for distribution and sales support services:

 

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 56,868

Aurora

     122,520

Capital Appreciation

     20,324

Energy & Resources

     85,089

The Advisor maintains a call center, which is responsible for providing certain shareholder services to the Portfolios, such as responding to shareholder inquiries and processing transactions based upon instructions from shareholders with respect to the subscription and redemption of Portfolio shares. During the six months ended March 31, 2009, each Portfolio reimbursed the Advisor the following amounts for costs incurred in running the call center, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

     Share Classes     

Call Center

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 3,871    $ 619    $ 24,193    $ 5,444    $ 12,358      —      $ 46,485

Aurora

     —        —        41,196      —        —      $ 22      41,218

Capital Appreciation

     —        —        13,548      4,195      613      —        18,356

Energy & Resources

     1,207      —        30,334      5,123      7,191      —        43,855

 

46

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the following charts show the various types of class specific expenses borne directly by each class of each Portfolio and any associated waivers or reimbursements of those expenses.

 

     Share Classes      

Administration Fees

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R     Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 33,556    $ 283    $ 16,731    $ 2,971    $ 10,234      —   )   $ 63,775

Aurora

     6,637      —        39,029      9,084      8,611    $ 116       63,477

Capital Appreciation

     10,506      —        11,733      1,570      1,622      —         25,431

Energy & Resources

     4,432      —        49,570      3,606      10,192      —         67,800
     Share Classes      

Administration Fees Waived

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R     Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 32,725    $ 283    $ 16,731    $ 2,971    $ 10,234      —       $ 62,944

Aurora

     6,637      —        38,847      9,084      8,611    $ 116       63,295

Capital Appreciation

     10,506      —        801      1,489      —        —         12,796

Energy & Resources

     2,729      —        49,019      3,606      9,997      —         65,351

 

     Share Classes     

Service and Distribution Fees

   Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 2,833    $ 166,939    $ 119,702    $ 410,971      —      $ 700,445

Aurora

     —        369,207      355,392      337,409    $ 2,328      1,064,336

Capital Appreciation

     —        117,153      61,312      64,399      —        242,864

Energy & Resources

     —        462,044      142,895      405,463      —        1,010,402

 

     Share Classes     

Transfer Agent Fees

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 56,935    $ 5,571    $ 263,267    $ 60,464    $ 154,513      —      $ 540,750

Aurora

     97,686      —        644,154      196,649      142,446    $ 1,537      1,082,472

Capital Appreciation

     18,993      —        154,739      33,704      10,497      —        217,933

Energy & Resources

     23,492      —        686,538      54,079      113,093      —        877,202
     Share Classes     

Transfer Agent Fees Waived

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 3,743    $ 619    $ 24,093    $ 5,444    $ 12,358      —      $ 46,257

Aurora

     —        —        40,969      —        —      $ 22      40,991

Capital Appreciation

     —        —        215      3,925      —        —        4,140

Energy & Resources

     682      —        29,834      5,123      7,096      —        42,735
     Share Classes     

Transfer Agent Fees Reimbursed

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 45,233    $ 3,066    $ 127,904    $ 42,172    $ 97,316      —      $ 315,691

Aurora

     89,840      —        320,634      127,468      77,946    $ 1,143      617,031

Capital Appreciation

     18,946      —        —        3,356      —        —        22,302

Energy & Resources

     4,527      —        312,279      30,717      55,686      —        403,209

If within two years following a waiver or reimbursement, the operating expenses of a share class that previously received a waiver or reimbursement from the Advisor are less than the expense limit for that share class, the Advisor is entitled to be reimbursed by such share class up to the amount of fees waived or expenses reimbursed under the agreement if: (1) the Portfolio has more than $50 million in assets, (2) the Advisor or an affiliate continues to serve as the Portfolio’s investment advisor or administrator and (3) the Board has approved in advance the payments to the Advisor at the previous quarterly meeting.

At March 31, 2009, the amounts subject to possible future reimbursement under the expense limitation agreement are as follows:

 

     Expiring January 31,
     2010    2011    2012

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 268,738    $ 381,735    $ 130,792

Aurora

     805,630      955,200      197,839
     Expiring January 31,
     2010    2011    2012

Capital Appreciation

     200,876      165,487      51,484

Energy & Resources

     55,847      404,402      135,019

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    47


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

The following waivers previously recorded by the portfolios, which were subject to recoupment by the Advisor, expired on January 31, 2009:

 

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 131,783

For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Merrill Lynch, through its affiliated broker dealer, MLPF&S, earned commissions on transactions of securities as follows:

 

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 6,195

Aurora

     97,391

Capital Appreciation

     3,240

Energy & Resources

     75,122

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates earned underwriting discounts, direct commissions and dealer concessions on sales of each Portfolio’s Investor A Shares as follows:

 

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 9,181

Aurora

     1,588

Capital Appreciation

     14,370

Energy & Resources

     33,346

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates received the following contingent deferred sales charges relating to transactions in Investor A, B and C Shares:

 

     Investor A    Investor B    Investor C

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 15,827    $ 88,181    $ 32,800

Aurora

     80      24,753      1,251

Capital Appreciation

     —        10,192      2,632

Energy & Resources

     12,411      40,083      39,455

The Portfolios may earn income on positive cash balances in demand deposit accounts that are maintained by PNCGIS on behalf of the Portfolios. The income earned for the six months ended March 31, 2009 was as follows which is included in interest and dividends – affiliated on the Statements of Operations:

 

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 982

Aurora

     1,686

Capital Appreciation

     432

Energy & Resources

     1,071

The Portfolios may also receive earnings credits related to cash balances with PNCGIS which are shown on the Statements of Operations as fees paid indirectly.

Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or directors of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. The Portfolios reimburse the Advisor for compensation paid to the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer.

3. Investments:

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities, were as follows:

 

     Purchases    Sales

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   $ 58,951,764    $ 216,061,780
     Purchases    Sales

Aurora

     781,125,939      867,915,304

Capital Appreciation

     123,200,917      90,282,570

Energy & Resources

     114,232,816      95,616,095

4. Short-Term Borrowings:

The Portfolios, along with certain other funds managed by the Advisor and its affiliates, are a party to a $500 million credit agreement with a group of lenders, which expired November 2008 and was renewed until November 2009. The Portfolios may borrow under the credit agreement to fund shareholder redemptions and for other lawful purposes other than for leverage. Each Portfolio may borrow up to the maximum amount allowable under the Portfolio’s current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, subject to various other legal, regulatory or contractual limits. The Portfolios paid their pro rata share of a 0.02% upfront fee on the aggregate commitment amount based on their net assets as of October 31, 2008. The Portfolios pay a commitment fee of 0.08% per annum based on each Portfolio’s pro rata share of the unused portion of the credit agreement, which is included in miscellaneous on the Statements of Operations. Amounts borrowed under the credit agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, the higher of the (a) federal funds effective rate and (b) reserve adjusted one month LIBOR, plus, in each case, the higher of (i) 1.50% and (ii) 50% of the CDX index (as defined in the credit agreement) in effect from time to time. The Portfolios did not borrow under the credit agreement during the six months ended March 31, 2009.

5. Capital Loss Carryforward:

As of September 30, 2008, capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized capital gains through the indicated expiration dates:

 

     Expiring September 30,     
     2010    2011    Total

Capital Appreciation

   $ 32,425,507    $ 18,377,786    $ 50,803,293

6. Market and Credit Risk:

In the normal course of business, the Portfolios invest in securities and enter into transactions where risks exist due to fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of the issuer of a security to meet all its obligations (credit risk). The value of securities held by the Portfolios may decline in response to certain events, including those directly involving the issuers whose securities are owned by the Portfolios; conditions affecting the general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or economic instability; and currency and interest rate and price fluctuations. Similar to credit risk, the Portfolios may be exposed to counterparty risk, or the risk that an entity with which the Portfolios have unsettled or open transactions may default. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Portfolios to credit and counterparty risks, consist principally of investments and cash due from counterparties. The extent of the Portfolios’ exposure to credit and counterparty risks with respect to these financial assets is approximated by their value recorded in the Portfolios’ Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

48

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

7. Capital Shares Transactions:

Transactions in shares for each period were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

All-Cap Energy & Resources

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   3,964,038     $ 35,623,597     9,052,749     $ 188,696,516  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   5,705,652       45,759,161     838,728       16,866,827  
                            

Total issued

   9,669,690       81,382,758     9,891,477       205,563,343  

Shares redeemed

   (13,568,149 )     (124,181,634 )   (9,226,778 )     (206,600,458 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (3,898,459 )   $ (42,798,876 )   664,699     $ (1,037,115 )
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   47,365     $ 463,008     249,773     $ 5,748,476  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   36,296       286,741     3,119       62,170  
                            

Total issued

   83,661       749,749     252,892       5,810,646  

Shares redeemed

   (148,448 )     (1,355,481 )   (129,909 )     (2,707,905 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (64,787 )   $ (605,732 )   122,983     $ 3,102,741  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   2,776,744     $ 24,496,357     6,199,085     $ 136,305,042  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   2,485,168       19,632,659     358,961       7,154,106  
                            

Total issued

   5,261,912       44,129,016     6,558,046       143,459,148  

Shares redeemed

   (7,012,875 )     (65,241,206 )   (7,972,335 )     (165,962,206 )
                            

Net decrease

   (1,750,963 )   $ (21,112,190 )   (1,414,289 )   $ (22,503,058 )
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   211,458     $ 1,812,746     507,174     $ 10,924,000  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   474,990       3,652,624     46,276       909,329  
                            

Total issued

   686,448       5,465,370     553,450       11,833,329  

Shares redeemed

   (639,293 )     (5,659,008 )   (801,196 )     (16,092,877 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   47,155     $ (193,638 )   (247,746 )   $ (4,259,548 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   979,945     $ 8,473,128     2,689,785     $ 57,811,060  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,666,587       12,815,816     188,487       3,705,692  
                            

Total issued

   2,646,532       21,288,944     2,878,272       61,516,752  

Shares redeemed

   (3,078,107 )     (27,897,644 )   (4,091,437 )     (83,112,997 )
                            

Net decrease

   (431,575 )   $ (6,608,700 )   (1,213,165 )   $ (21,596,245 )
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    49


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Aurora

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   1,013,835     $ 13,820,111     2,074,486     $ 47,704,495  

Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions

   —         —       1,230,662       30,781,548  
                            

Total issued

   1,013,835       13,820,111     3,305,148       78,486,043  

Shares redeemed

   (1,653,194 )     (22,694,363 )   (4,618,681 )     (104,430,818 )
                            

Net decrease

   (639,359 )   $ (8,874,252 )   (1,313,533 )   $ (25,944,775 )
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   2,433,096     $ 29,323,906     3,833,437     $ 80,386,960  

Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions

   —         —       7,085,729       162,351,816  
                            

Total issued

   2,433,096       29,323,906     10,919,166       242,738,776  

Shares redeemed

   (5,787,264 )     (72,135,362 )   (14,304,737 )     (304,632,209 )
                            

Net decrease

   (3,354,168 )   $ (42,811,456 )   (3,385,571 )   $ (61,893,433 )
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   134,625     $ 1,406,607     183,023     $ 3,085,634  

Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions

   —         —       2,853,257       52,471,586  
                            

Total issued

   134,625       1,406,607     3,036,280       55,557,220  

Shares redeemed

   (2,699,598 )     (26,162,610 )   (5,092,762 )     (87,545,343 )
                            

Net decrease

   (2,564,973 )   $ (24,756,003 )   (2,056,482 )   $ (31,988,123 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   89,088     $ 886,231     260,720     $ 4,350,936  

Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions

   —         —       2,341,321       43,230,706  
                            

Total issued

   89,088       886,231     2,602,041       47,581,642  

Shares redeemed

   (1,333,795 )     (13,288,923 )   (3,773,111 )     (65,758,800 )
                            

Net decrease

   (1,244,707 )   $ (12,402,692 )   (1,171,070 )   $ (18,177,158 )
                            

R

        

Shares sold

   8,473     $ 102,360     48,891     $ 1,086,944  

Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions

   —         —       12,133       281,248  
                            

Total issued

   8,473       102,360     61,024       1,368,192  

Shares redeemed

   (10,757 )     (132,256 )   (24,289 )     (506,370 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (2,284 )   $ (29,896 )   36,735     $ 861,822  
                            

Capital Appreciation

                        

Institutional

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   846,171     $ 9,635,176     —       $ —    

Shares sold

   3,692,247       44,157,900     1,638,547       28,297,038  
                            

Total issued

   4,538,418       53,793,076     1,638,547       28,297,038  

Shares redeemed

   (959,180 )     (10,950,950 )   (470,687 )     (8,322,488 )
                            

Net increase

   3,579,238     $ 42,842,126     1,167,860     $ 19,974,550  
                            

 

50

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Capital Appreciation (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor A

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   22,316     $ 243,665     —       $ —    

Shares sold

   1,870,199       20,660,435     3,197,945       53,739,514  
                            

Total issued

   1,892,515       20,904,100     3,197,945       53,739,514  

Shares redeemed

   (1,876,784 )     (20,845,338 )   (2,095,586 )     (34,173,398 )
                            

Net increase

   15,731     $ 58,762     1,102,359     $ 19,566,116  
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   78,081     $ 793,400     96,209     $ 1,508,158  

Shares redeemed

   (521,565 )     (5,237,901 )   (1,594,178 )     (24,746,487 )
                            

Net decrease

   (443,484 )   $ (4,444,501 )   (1,497,969 )   $ (23,238,329 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   861,757     $ 8,823,785     195,339     $ 2,936,249  

Shares redeemed

   (307,778 )     (3,069,155 )   (209,587 )     (3,201,948 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   553,979     $ 5,754,630     (14,248 )   $ (265,699 )
                            

Energy & Resources

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   1,973,622     $ 44,293,942     1,839,333     $ 136,929,369  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   380,846       7,594,158     44,166       2,677,415  
                            

Total issued

   2,354,468       51,888,100     1,883,499       139,606,784  

Shares redeemed

   (1,596,089 )     (45,243,643 )   (873,950 )     (60,686,858 )
                            

Net increase

   758,379     $ 6,644,457     1,009,549     $ 78,919,926  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   7,703,418     $ 161,338,891     7,408,833     $ 495,863,823  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   6,478,750       113,896,770     1,758,021       98,308,999  
                            

Total issued

   14,182,168       275,235,661     9,166,854       594,172,822  

Shares redeemed

   (5,575,152 )     (134,459,327 )   (6,200,250 )     (394,977,968 )
                            

Net increase

   8,607,016     $ 140,776,334     2,966,604     $ 199,194,854  
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   155,548     $ 2,520,568     256,247     $ 14,709,333  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   785,430       10,446,300     237,561       11,255,907  
                            

Total issued

   940,978       12,966,868     493,808       25,965,240  

Shares redeemed

   (584,584 )     (10,287,902 )   (628,938 )     (33,196,754 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   356,394     $ 2,678,966     (135,130 )   $ (7,231,514 )
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    51


Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Energy & Resources (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   954,997     $ 16,020,682     1,659,207     $ 97,391,961  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   2,181,238       28,923,438     476,747       22,536,947  
                            

Total issued

   3,136,235       44,944,120     2,135,954       119,928,908  

Shares redeemed

   (1,272,839 )     (24,507,901 )   (1,151,408 )     (61,147,936 )
                            

Net increase

   1,863,396     $ 20,436,219     984,546     $ 58,780,972  
                            

There is a 2% redemption fee on shares of certain Portfolios redeemed or exchanged which have been held for 30 days or less. The redemption fees are collected and retained by the Portfolio for the benefit of the remaining shareholders. The redemption fees are recorded as a credit to paid-in capital.

 

52

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Officers and Trustees

Ronald W. Forbes, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

Rodney D. Johnson, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

David O. Beim, Trustee

Dr. Matina Horner, Trustee

Herbert I. London, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Cynthia A. Montgomery, Trustee

Joseph P. Platt, Jr., Trustee

Robert C. Robb, Jr., Trustee

Toby Rosenblatt, Trustee

Kenneth L. Urish, Chairman of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Frederick W. Winter, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Richard S. Davis, Trustee

Henry Gabbay, Trustee

Donald C. Burke, Fund President and Chief Executive Officer

Anne F. Ackerley, Vice President

Neal J. Andrews, Chief Financial Officer

Jay M. Fife, Treasurer

Brian P. Kindelan, Chief Compliance Officer of the Fund

Howard Surloff, Secretary

Investment Advisor and Co-Administrator

BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Wilmington, DE 19809

Custodian

PFPC Trust Company

Philadelphia, PA 19153

Co-Administrator and Transfer Agent

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc.

Wilmington, DE 19809

Distributor

BlackRock Investments, LLC

New York, NY 10022

Legal Counsel

Sidley Austin LLP

New York, NY 10019

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Address of the Portfolios

100 Bellevue Parkway

Wilmington, DE 19809

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    53


Additional Information

BlackRock Privacy Principles

BlackRock is committed to maintaining the privacy of its current and former fund investors and individual clients (collectively, “Clients”) and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information BlackRock collects, how we protect that information and why in certain cases we share such information with select parties.

If you are located in a jurisdiction where specific laws, rules or regulations require BlackRock to provide you with additional or different privacy-related rights beyond what is set forth below, then BlackRock will comply with those specific laws, rules or regulations.

BlackRock obtains or verifies personal non-public information from and about you from different sources, including the following: (i) information we receive from you or, if applicable, your financial intermediary, on applications, forms or other documents; (ii) information about your transactions with us, our affiliates, or others; (iii) information we receive from a consumer reporting agency; and (iv) from visits to our websites.

BlackRock does not sell or disclose to non-affiliated third parties any non-public personal information about its Clients, except as permitted by law or as is necessary to respond to regulatory requests or to service Client accounts. These non-affiliated third parties are required to protect the confidentiality and security of this information and to use it only for its intended purpose.

We may share information with our affiliates to service your account or to provide you with information about other BlackRock products or services that may be of interest to you. In addition, BlackRock restricts access to non-public personal information about its Clients to those BlackRock employees with a legitimate business need for the information. BlackRock maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that are designed to protect the non-public personal information of its Clients, including procedures relating to the proper storage and disposal of such information.

Availability of Additional Information

Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available on the Fund’s website or shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications of quarterly statements, annual and semi-annual reports and prospectuses by enrolling in the Fund’s electronic delivery program.

To enroll:

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts with Investment Advisors, Banks or Brokerages:

Please contact your financial advisor. Please note that not all investment advisors, banks or brokerages may offer this service.

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts Directly With BlackRock

 

1) Access the BlackRock website at

http://www.blackrock.com/edelivery

 

2) Click on the applicable link and follow the steps to sign up

 

3) Log into your account

Householding

The Fund will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including prospectuses, annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and it is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your shareholder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please contact the Fund at (800) 441-7762.

 

54

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available (1) without charge, upon request by calling (800) 441-7762; (2) at www.blackrock.com; and (3) on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Proxy Voting Record

Information about how the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolios during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request and without charge (1) at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 441-7762 (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at http:// www.sec.gov and may also 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 (800) SEC-0330. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling (800) 441-7762.

Shareholder Privileges

Account Information

Call us at (800) 441-7762 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST Monday through Friday to get information about your account balances, recent transactions and share prices. You can also reach us on the Web at www.blackrock.com/funds.

Automatic Investment Plans

Investor Class shareholders who want to invest regularly can arrange to have $50 or more automatically deducted from their checking or savings account and invested in any of the BlackRock portfolios.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan

Investor Class shareholders can establish a systematic withdrawal plan and receive periodic payments of $50 or more from their BlackRock portfolios, as long as their account is at least $10,000.

Retirement Plans

Shareholders may make investments in conjunction with Traditional, Rollover, Roth, Coverdell, Simple IRA’s, SEP IRA’s and 403(b) Plans.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    55


A World-Class Mutual Fund Family

BlackRock offers a diverse lineup of open-end mutual funds crossing all investment styles and managed by experts in equity, fixed income and tax-exempt investing.

 

Equity Funds

     

BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

  

BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Asset Allocation Portfolio†

  

BlackRock Global SmallCap Fund

  

BlackRock Mid Cap Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Aurora Portfolio

  

BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Natural Resources Trust

BlackRock Balanced Capital Fund†

  

BlackRock Healthcare Fund

  

BlackRock Pacific Fund

BlackRock Basic Value Fund

  

BlackRock Index Equity Portfolio*

  

BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Diversification Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Equity Dividend Fund

  

BlackRock International Index Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Fund II

BlackRock EuroFund

  

BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Small Cap Index Fund

BlackRock Focus Growth Fund

  

BlackRock International Value Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

BlackRock Focus Value Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Core Fund

  

BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

BlackRock Fundamental Growth Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Core Plus Fund

  

BlackRock S&P 500 Index Fund

BlackRock Global Allocation Fund†

  

BlackRock Large Cap Growth Fund

  

BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Global Dynamic Equity Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Value Fund

  

BlackRock Utilities and Telecommunications Fund

BlackRock Global Emerging Markets Fund

  

BlackRock Latin America Fund

  

BlackRock Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Global Financial Services Fund

  

BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

  

BlackRock Global Growth Fund

     

Fixed Income Funds

     

BlackRock Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Income Builder Portfolio

  

BlackRock Short-Term Bond Fund

BlackRock Emerging Market Debt Portfolio

  

BlackRock Inflation Protected Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Strategic Income Portfolio

BlackRock Enhanced Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Intermediate Government Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Total Return Fund

BlackRock GNMA Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Total Return Portfolio II

BlackRock Government Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Long Duration Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock World Income Fund

BlackRock High Income Fund

  

BlackRock Low Duration Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock High Yield Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Managed Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Income Portfolio

     

Municipal Bond Funds

     

BlackRock AMT-Free Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Kentucky Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock New York Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock California Municipal Bond Fund

  

BlackRock Municipal Insured Fund

  

BlackRock Ohio Municipal Bond Portfolio

BlackRock Delaware Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock National Municipal Fund

  

BlackRock Pennsylvania Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock High Yield Municipal Fund

  

BlackRock New Jersey Municipal Bond Fund

  

BlackRock Short-Term Municipal Fund

BlackRock Intermediate Municipal Fund

     

Target Risk & Target Date Funds

     

BlackRock Prepared Portfolios

  

BlackRock Lifecycle Prepared Portfolios

  

Conservative Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2010

  

Prepared Portfolio 2030

Moderate Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2015

  

Prepared Portfolio 2035

Growth Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2020

  

Prepared Portfolio 2040

Aggressive Growth Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2025

  

Prepared Portfolio 2045

     

Prepared Portfolio 2050

 

* See the prospectus for information on specific limitations on investments in the fund.

 

Mixed asset fund.

BlackRock mutual funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. You should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the funds under consideration carefully before investing. Each fund’s prospectus contains this and other information and is available at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 882-0052 or from your financial advisor. The prospectus should be read carefully before investing.

 

56

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.]


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LOGO

This report is transmitted to shareholders only. It is not authorized for use as an offer of sale or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Portfolios unless accompanied or preceded by the Portfolios’ current prospectus. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. Investment returns and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change.

Investment in foreign securities involves special risks including fluctuating foreign exchange rates, foreign government regulations, differing degrees of liquidity and the possibility of substantial volatility due to adverse political, economic or other developments.

LOGO

EQUITY12-3/09-SAR


EQUITIES    FIXED INCOME    REAL ESTATE    LIQUIDITY    ALTERNATIVES    BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS

 

BlackRock FundsSM

   LOGO

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT    |    MARCH 31, 2009 (UNAUDITED)

BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

NOT FDIC INSURED

MAY LOSE VALUE

NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

 

     Page

A Letter to Shareholders

   3

Semi-Annual Report:

  

Portfolio Summaries

   4

About Portfolio Performance

   10

Disclosure of Expenses

   10

Financial Statements:

  

Schedules of Investments

   11

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

   20

Statements of Operations

   22

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

   23

Financial Highlights

   24

Notes to Financial Statements

   30

Officers and Trustees

   38

Additional Information

   39

Mutual Fund Family

   41

 

2

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A Letter to Shareholders

The past 12 months have been a period investors would like to forget, but instead will vividly remember, as the global financial crisis erupted into the worst recession in decades. Daily headlines recounted the downfalls of storied financial firms, volatile swings in the world’s financial markets and monumental government actions, including the recent passage of the nearly $800 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The economic data generally deteriorated throughout the reporting period. US gross domestic product (“GDP”) contracted at an annual rate of 6.3% in the fourth quarter of 2008, and economic activity appears on pace to be negative in the first quarter of 2009 as well. The Federal Reserve Board (the “Fed”) took forceful action to revive the global economy and ailing financial system. In addition to slashing the federal funds target rate from 3.0% to a record low range of 0% to 0.25%, the central bank provided enormous cash infusions and radically expanded its balance sheet through a range of lending and acquisition programs.

Against this backdrop, US equities contended with high levels of volatility and posted steep losses, notwithstanding a powerful rally in the final month of the reporting period. International markets also experienced sharp downturns, with some regions declining as much or more than the United States. Risk aversion remained the dominant theme in fixed income markets, as investors sought out the haven of Treasury issues at the expense of virtually all other asset classes. High yield issues, in particular, faced unprecedented challenges and posted severe underperformance; that said, the sector pared its losses in the first quarter of 2009, as both liquidity and investor sentiment toward lower-quality debt improved. At the same time, the start of the new year brought somewhat of a return to normalcy for the tax-exempt market, which registered one of its worst years on record in 2008.

In all, investors continued to gravitate toward relative safety, as evidenced in the six- and 12-month returns of the major benchmark indexes:

 

Total Returns as of March 31, 2009

   6-month     12-month  

US equities (S&P 500 Index)

   (30.54 )%   (38.09 )%

Small cap US equities (Russell 2000 Index)

   (37.17 )   (37.50 )

International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index)

   (31.11 )   (46.50 )

US Treasury securities (Merrill Lynch 10-Year US Treasury Index)

   11.88     10.46  

Taxable fixed income (Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index)

   4.70     3.13  

Tax-exempt fixed income (Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index)

   5.00     2.27  

High yield bonds (Barclays Capital US Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index)

   (12.65 )   (18.56 )

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.

Through periods of market turbulence, as ever, BlackRock’s full resources are dedicated to the management of our clients’ assets. We thank you for entrusting BlackRock with your investments and look forward to continuing to serve you in the months and years ahead.

 

Sincerely,

LOGO

Rob Kapito

President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Seeking additional investment insights?

Visit BlackRock’s award-winning Shareholder® magazine, now available exclusively online at www.blackrock.com/shareholdermagazine. In this issue:

 

   

Discover why portfolio diversification still matters — even as nearly every financial asset class lost value over the past year.

 

   

Learn how adding commodities to a more traditional mix of assets can help you to balance risks and access new potential rewards.

 

   

Assuage your fears about higher taxes and discover how municipal bonds may offer some relief.

 

   

Find out if there’s still value to be found in dividend-paying stocks.

THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT

 

              3


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio underperformed the benchmark Russell 2000 Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Underperformance for the period was largely driven by weak stock selection in industrials and information technology (IT). In industrials, selection among machinery and aerospace & defense names hampered relative performance. Altra Holdings Inc. and Orbital Sciences Inc. were among the key individual detractors in these areas. Disappointing relative performance from the Portfolio’s semiconductors & semiconductor equipment and internet software & services companies led to the performance shortfall in the IT sector.

 

   

Portfolio performance benefited from allocation and favorable stock selection in the materials sector. Key areas of strength included the containers & packaging and chemicals sub-sectors. Consumer goods packaging producer Silgan Holdings Inc. and specialty chemicals maker Hercules Inc., which was acquired during the period, added the greatest value.

 

   

In consumer discretionary, an overweight and stock selection in the specialty retail area and positive stock selection among textiles, apparel & luxury goods makers contributed to favorable performance comparisons. Notable contributors included Rent-A-Center Inc., Carter’s Inc. and J. Crew Group Inc.

 

   

HMS Holdings Corp. was a standout individual contributor in the healthcare sector. The company, which provides cost management services to state Medicaid agencies and other government-sponsored health programs, reported earnings that consistently beat expectations during the period.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

Allocations to the financials and consumer discretionary sectors increased during the period, while healthcare, materials and consumer staples weightings declined. Within financials, we increased the Portfolio’s exposure within the insurance and real estate investment trust (REIT) sub-sectors. In consumer discretionary, we added to a weighting in specialty retailers as valuations reached historically attractive levels.

 

   

Conversely, we trimmed exposure to healthcare equipment & supplies companies and healthcare providers in the healthcare sector. Within the materials sector, we eliminated several positions in highly cyclical chemicals manufacturers as global economic conditions deteriorated.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio’s most notable overweight relative to the benchmark was in the healthcare sector, particularly within the healthcare providers & services sub-sector. The Portfolio was also modestly overweight in the materials sector, primarily among containers & packaging producers. Key underweights included industrials, notably electrical equipment and machinery, and utilities, primarily gas utilities.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

   3 %

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   3  

HMS Holdings Corp.

   2  

SkillSoft Plc - ADR

   2  

The GEO Group, Inc.

   2  

EMS Technologies, Inc.

   2  

Chattem, Inc.

   2  

First American Corp.

   2  

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   2  

MEDNAX, Inc.

   2  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Financials

   21 %

Information Technology

   19  

Health Care

   19  

Industrials

   12  

Consumer Discretionary

   12  

Materials

   5  

Consumer Staples

   4  

Energy

   4  

Utilities

   3  

Telecommunication Services

   1  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

4

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in the equity securities of US small capitalization companies (market capitalizations between approximately $7.6 million and $3.2 billion as of December 31, 2008).

 

3 An index that measures the performance of the 2000 smallest companies in the Russell 3000.

 

4 Commencement of operations.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

     6-Month
Total Returns
    Average Annual Total Returns5  
     1 Year     5 Years     From Inception6  
     w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (38.21 )%   (39.99 )%   N/A     (6.29 )%   N/A     1.64 %   N/A  

Service

   (38.33 )   (40.20 )   N/A     (6.53 )   N/A     1.47     N/A  

Investor A

   (38.34 )   (40.26 )   (43.40 )%   (6.67 )   (7.67 )%   1.32     0.57 %

Investor B

   (38.57 )   (40.73 )   (43.40 )   (7.38 )   (7.71 )   0.74     0.74  

Investor C

   (38.62 )   (40.74 )   (41.34 )   (7.37 )   (7.37 )   0.75     0.75  

Russell 2000 Index

   (37.17 )   (37.50 )   N/A     (5.24 )   N/A     (0.70 )   N/A  

 

5 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 10 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

 

6 The Portfolio commenced operations on January 2, 2002.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical8
     Beginning    Ending         Beginning    Ending     
     Account Value    Account Value    Expenses Paid    Account Value    Account Value    Expenses Paid
     October 1, 2008    March 31, 2009    During the Period7    October 1, 2008    March 31, 2009    During the Period7

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 617.90    $ 5.24    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.44    $ 6.56

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 616.70    $ 6.45    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.92    $ 8.08

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 616.60    $ 7.13    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.06    $ 8.94

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 614.30    $ 10.14    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,012.28    $ 12.72

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 613.80    $ 10.14    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,012.28    $ 12.72

 

7 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.30% for Institutional, 1.60% for Service, 1.77% for Investor A, 2.52% for Investor B and 2.52% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

8 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365. See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 10 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    5


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio underperformed the benchmark Russell 2000 Growth Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Poor stock selection within the healthcare and consumer discretionary sectors was the most significant detractor from relative returns during the period. Within the healthcare sector, the healthcare equipment and supplies industry accounted for the majority of the Portfolio’s underperformance. Wright Medical Group, Inc., a manufacturer of hip and joint replacements, plummeted more than 50% on worries of decreased demand for its products. Additionally, ZOLL Medical Corp. dropped more than 50% on declining revenues for its defibrillator products. Within consumer discretionary, a position in Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc. was the most significant detractor in the group. The company’s stock sunk more than 65% after a potential acquisition with a competitor was met with resistance from federal regulators. Portfolio holding Orient-Express Hotels also severely declined after repeatedly refusing to participate in discussions with potential acquirers.

 

   

On the positive side, strong stock selection within information technology (IT) and industrials was the biggest contributor to performance. Within IT, telecommunications equipment provider Neutral Tandem, Inc. was up more than 30% on strong market share gains and its high earnings visibility business model. Call center company ExlService Holdings, Inc. was flat for the period after posting a rally in the first quarter of 2009. Within industrials, outsourcing company Sykes Enterprises, Inc. was a relative outperformer in a sector that was down more than 40% for the period. The outsourcing company continues to benefit from its broad, global economic footprint. Elsewhere in the Portfolio, holding Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. climbed more than 20% on continued success in its coffee distribution business.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

During the period, we increased the Portfolio’s overweight in the IT sector, adding names ON Semiconductor Corp., Monolithic Power Systems, Inc. and Silicon Laboratories, Inc. among others. We decreased its weighting in energy, eliminating holdings Delta Petroleum Corp., James River Coal Co. and Atwood Oceanics, Inc.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio’s most significant overweight relative to the benchmark was in the IT sector, and its largest underweight was in healthcare.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

SkillSoft Plc - ADR

   3 %

TiVo, Inc.

   3  

Sykes Enterprises, Inc

   2  

ExlService Holdings, Inc.

   2  

Forrester Research, Inc.

   2  

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A

   2  

Magellan Health Services, Inc.

   2  

SonicWALL, Inc.

   2  

Neutral Tandem, Inc.

   2  

SRA International, Inc. - Class A

   2  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Information Technology

   33 %

Health Care

   21  

Industrials

   16  

Consumer Discretionary

   12  

Financials

   5  

Energy

   4  

Consumer Staples

   4  

Materials

   3  

Exchange-Traded Funds

   2  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

6

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities issued by US small capitalization growth companies (market capitalizations between approximately $7.6 million and $3.2 billion as of December 31, 2008) which the portfolio management team believes offer superior prospects for growth.

 

3 An index that contains those securities with greater-than-average growth orientations, generally having higher price-to-book and price-to- earnings ratios.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

     6-Month
Total Returns
    Average Annual Total Returns4  
     1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (36.11 )%   (40.25 )%   N/A     (4.09 )%   N/A     (0.64 )%   N/A  

Service

   (36.17 )   (40.40 )   N/A     (4.33 )   N/A     (0.89 )   N/A  

Investor A

   (36.25 )   (40.53 )   (43.64 )%   (4.40 )   (5.43 )%   (1.04 )   (1.57 )%

Investor B

   (36.53 )   (41.02 )   (43.68 )   (5.22 )   (5.60 )   (1.65 )   (1.65 )

Investor C

   (36.53 )   (41.06 )   (41.64 )   (5.23 )   (5.23 )   (1.80 )   (1.80 )

Russell 2000 Growth Index

   (34.51 )   (36.36 )   N/A     (5.37 )   N/A     (1.61 )   N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 10 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning    Ending         Beginning    Ending     
     Account Value    Account Value    Expenses Paid    Account Value    Account Value    Expenses Paid
     October 1, 2008    March 31, 2009    During the Period5    October 1, 2008    March 31, 2009    During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 638.90    $ 3.60    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,020.56    $ 4.44

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 638.30    $ 4.70    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.19    $ 5.81

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 637.50    $ 5.47    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.23    $ 6.77

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 634.70    $ 9.01    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.84    $ 11.16

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 634.70    $ 9.01    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.84    $ 11.16

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (0.88% for Institutional, 1.15% for Service, 1.34% for Investor A, 2.21% for Investor B and 2.21% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365. See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 10 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    7


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the benchmark Russell 2000 Value Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

In an extremely volatile period for financial stocks, relative performance benefited from strong stock selection in the financials sector. Mortgage and vehicle fleet management services provider PHH Corp. was among the standout individual contributors. An underweight among commercial banks and real estate investment trusts (REITs) also drove relative outperformance in the sector as these areas experienced significant selling pressure.

 

   

Stock selection among chemicals and metals & mining names added value in the materials sector. Key contributors included Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. and Sensient Technologies Corp., a maker of food coloring and artificial flavors. In industrials, pest control services provider Rollins Inc. boosted relative returns.

 

   

By contrast, allocation and stock selection in both the utilities and information technology (IT) sectors weighed on relative performance. Notable individual detractors included customer management services provider Convergys Corp. and semiconductor manufacturer Microsemi Corp. Both stocks were sold during the period.

 

   

Although an overweight in the consumer staples sector added value, these gains were overshadowed by poor performance from select food producers, including Hain Celestial Group Inc. and Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

During the six months, we increased the Portfolio’s exposure to utilities, energy and financials. In utilities, we established several positions in electric utilities. In energy, we initiated positions in exploration & production names as commodity prices bottomed. In financials, we added to capital markets with new positions in KBW Inc. and Jefferies Group Inc.

 

   

We reduced exposure to consumer staples, consumer discretionary and IT. In consumer staples, we trimmed positions in food products and food & staples retailers. In consumer discretionary, we reduced exposure to specialty retailers, hotels, restaurants & leisure names, and apparel & luxury goods companies. In IT, we eliminated positions in IT services providers Forrester Research Inc. and Acxiom Corp.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio was overweight relative to the benchmark in healthcare, particularly among healthcare providers & services and healthcare equipment & supplies, consumer staples and energy. Key underweights included financials, primarily REITs and commercial banks, utilities and IT.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

PHH Corp.

   3 %

Sensient Technologies Corp.

   3  

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

   2  

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

   2  

Magellan Health Services, Inc.

   2  

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   2  

Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd.

   2  

SkillSoft Plc - ADR

   2  

KBW, Inc.

   2  

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   2  

 

     Percent of  
     Long-Term  

Sector Allocation

   Investments  

Financials

   32 %

Consumer Discretionary

   12  

Industrials

   11  

Information Technology

   10  

Health Care

   10  

Consumer Staples

   8  

Utilities

   6  

Materials

   5  

Energy

   5  

Transportation

   1  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

8

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities issued by US small capitalization value companies (market capitalizations between approximately $7.8 million and $3.2 billion as of December 31, 2008).

 

3 An index that contains those securities with less-than-average growth orientations, generally having lower price-to-book and price-to- earnings ratios.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

     6-Month
Total Returns
    Average Annual Total Returns4  
     1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

BlackRock

   (37.55 )%   (40.08 )%   N/A     (6.08 )%   N/A     3.23 %   N/A  

Institutional

   (37.48 )   (39.93 )   N/A     (5.93 )   N/A     3.38     N/A  

Service

   (37.58 )   (40.18 )   N/A     (6.23 )   N/A     3.07     N/A  

Investor A

   (37.66 )   (40.28 )   (43.40 )%   (6.30 )   (7.31 )%   2.95     2.39 %

Investor B

   (37.95 )   (40.73 )   (43.38 )   (6.99 )   (7.14 )   2.30     2.30  

Investor C

   (37.81 )   (40.69 )   (41.28 )   (7.01 )   (7.01 )   2.16     2.16  

Russell 2000 Value Index

   (39.64 )   (38.90 )   N/A     (5.30 )   N/A     4.88     N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 10 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning    Ending         Beginning    Ending     
     Account Value    Account Value    Expenses Paid    Account Value    Account Value    Expenses Paid
     October 1, 2008    March 31, 2009    During Period5    October 1, 2008    March 31, 2009    During Period5

BlackRock

   $ 1,000.00    $ 624.50    $ 4.46    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.45    $ 5.55

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 625.20    $ 3.85    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,020.20    $ 4.80

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 624.20    $ 5.14    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.59    $ 6.41

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 623.40    $ 5.79    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.78    $ 7.22

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 620.50    $ 8.85    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.94    $ 11.06

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 621.90    $ 8.86    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.94    $ 11.06

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.10% for BlackRock, 0.95% for Institutional, 1.27% for Service, 1.43% for Investor A, 2.19% for Investor B and 2.19% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365. See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 10 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    9


About Portfolio Performance

 

   

BlackRock and Institutional Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge and are available only to eligible investors. These shares bear no ongoing distribution or service fees, except that the BlackRock class of Small Cap Value Equity is subject to a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Service Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end load) of 5.25% and a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 4.50% declining to 0% after six years. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. These shares automatically convert to Investor A Shares after approximately eight years. (There is no initial sales charge for automatic share conversions.) All returns for periods greater than eight years reflect this conversion.

 

   

Investor C Shares are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within one year of purchase. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year.

Performance information reflects past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Refer to www.blackrock.com/funds to obtain performance data current to the most recent month-end. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. Each Portfolio may charge a 2% redemption fee for sales or exchanges of shares within 30 days of purchase or exchange. Performance data does not reflect this potential fee. Figures shown in the performance tables on the previous pages assume reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, if any, at net asset value on the ex-dividend date. Investment return and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each class of shares will vary because of the different levels of service, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid to shareholders.

The performance information on the previous pages includes information for each class of each Portfolio since the commencement of operations of such Portfolio, rather than the date such class was introduced. Performance information for each class introduced after the commencement of operations of a Portfolio is therefore based on the performance history of a predecessor class adjusted to reflect the class specific fees applicable to each class at the time of the launch of such share class. This information may be considered when assessing a Portfolio’s performance, but does not represent the actual performance of this share class.

The performance information also reflects fee waivers and reimbursements that subsidize and reduce the total operating expenses of each Portfolio. The Portfolios’ returns would have been lower if there were no such waivers and reimbursements. BlackRock Advisors, LLC is under no obligation to waive or continue waiving its fees after February 1, 2010.

Disclosure of Expenses

Shareholders of these Portfolios may incur the following charges: (a) expenses related to transactions, including sales charges and redemption fees; and (b) operating expenses, including advisory fees, service and distribution fees including 12b-1 fees, and other Portfolio expenses. The expense examples on the previous pages (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2008 and held through March 31, 2009) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Portfolio and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Expense Example tables provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number corresponding to their share class under the headings entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

The tables also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolios’ actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in these Portfolios and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in other funds’ shareholder reports.

The expenses shown in the table are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as sales charges, redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the hypothetical table is useful in comparing ongoing expenses only, and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.

 

10

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 1.5%

     

Orbital Sciences Corp. (a)

   70,450    $ 837,651
         

Air Freight & Logistics — 1.6%

     

Forward Air Corp.

   35,400      574,542

UTi Worldwide, Inc.

   26,200      313,090
         
        887,632
         

Biotechnology — 1.9%

     

Dyax Corp. (a)

   192,421      482,977

Martek Biosciences Corp.

   31,600      576,700
         
        1,059,677
         

Capital Markets — 1.4%

     

KBW, Inc. (a)(b)

   39,300      799,755
         

Chemicals — 0.8%

     

Albemarle Corp.

   20,300      441,931
         

Commercial Banks — 6.5%

     

CoBiz Financial, Inc. (b)

   92,612      486,213

Columbia Banking System, Inc.

   58,547      374,701

CVB Financial Corp. (b)

   62,400      413,712

Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

   20,900      328,339

PacWest Bancorp

   32,100      459,993

Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.

   23,700      648,195

Westamerica Bancorp (b)

   14,300      651,508

Wintrust Financial Corp.

   21,300      261,990
         
        3,624,651
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 5.4%

     

Clean Harbors, Inc. (a)

   9,700      465,600

Copart, Inc. (a)

   12,400      367,784

The GEO Group, Inc. (a)

   86,380      1,144,535

Team, Inc. (a)

   22,197      260,149

Tetra Tech, Inc. (a)

   36,600      745,908
         
        2,983,976
         

Communications Equipment — 5.0%

     

Arris Group, Inc. (a)

   108,500      799,645

EMS Technologies, Inc. (a)

   61,061      1,066,125

Polycom, Inc. (a)

   58,800      904,932
         
        2,770,702
         

Containers & Packaging — 3.8%

     

AptarGroup, Inc.

   10,300      320,742

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

   33,950      1,783,733
         
        2,104,475
         

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.0%

     

Iowa Telecommunications Services, Inc. (b)

   48,300      553,518
         

Electric Utilities — 3.6%

     

El Paso Electric Co. (a)

   54,190      763,537

UIL Holdings Corp.

   24,132      538,626

Westar Energy, Inc.

   39,100      685,423
         
        1,987,586
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.3%

     

TTM Technologies, Inc. (a)

   123,800      718,040

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.0%

     

Ruddick Corp.

   25,200      565,740
         

Food Products — 1.2%

     

Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc. (a)

   39,500      648,590
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 1.4%

     

Immucor, Inc. (a)

   24,300      611,145

Symmetry Medical, Inc. (a)

   30,600      193,086
         
        804,231
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 13.6%

     

Centene Corp. (a)

   33,700      607,274

HealthSouth Corp. (a)

   62,800      557,664

HMS Holdings Corp. (a)

   37,845      1,245,101

IPC The Hospitalist Co., Inc. (a)

   32,980      627,609

Magellan Health Services, Inc. (a)

   22,500      819,900

MEDNAX, Inc. (a)

   31,550      929,778

MWI Veterinary Supply, Inc. (a)

   32,581      927,907

PharMerica Corp. (a)

   44,600      742,144

Sun Healthcare Group, Inc. (a)

   89,300      753,692

VCA Antech, Inc. (a)

   15,400      347,270
         
        7,558,339
         

Health Care Technology — 1.2%

     

Phase Forward, Inc. (a)

   51,800      662,522

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.8%

     

Sonic Corp. (a)

   34,700      347,694

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

   50,100      636,270
         
        983,964
         

Insurance — 6.7%

     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   62,100      1,394,766

First American Corp.

   36,600      970,266

First Mercury Financial Corp. (a)

   27,900      402,876

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   33,979      963,644
         
        3,731,552
         

Internet Software & Services — 2.1%

     

SkillSoft Plc - ADR (a)

   172,108      1,151,403
         

IT Services — 2.0%

     

Forrester Research, Inc. (a)

   17,050      350,548

NCI, Inc. - Class A (a)

   29,786      774,436
         
        1,124,984
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.7%

     

ICON Plc - ADR (a)

   23,100      373,065
         

Machinery — 1.3%

     

Actuant Corp. - Class A

   46,500      480,345

Altra Holdings, Inc. (a)

   58,395      226,573
         
        706,918
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 3.6%

     

James River Coal Co. (a)

   52,700      650,318

Penn Virginia Corp.

   42,700      468,846

Petroleum Development Corp. (a)

   26,400      311,784

Whiting Petroleum Corp. (a)

   23,300      602,305
         
        2,033,253
         

Portfolios Abbreviations

 

To simplify the listings of portfolio holdings in the Schedules of Investments, the names of certain securities have been abbreviated according to the list on the right.   ADR American Depository Receipts    

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    11


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Personal Products — 1.8%

     

Chattem, Inc. (a)(b)

   17,682    $ 991,076  
           

Professional Services — 1.0%

     

Huron Consulting Group, Inc. (a)

   13,800      585,534  
           

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 4.7%

     

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

   14,900      494,382  

Home Properties, Inc.

   12,900      395,385  

MFA Mortgage Investments, Inc.

   53,600      315,168  

Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc.

   18,600      573,438  

Redwood Trust, Inc.

   53,400      819,690  
           
        2,598,063  
           

Road & Rail — 0.7%

     

Landstar System, Inc.

   10,800      361,476  

Vitran Corp., Inc. (a)

   9,397      49,428  
           
        410,904  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 4.9%

     

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. (a)

   55,000      414,150  

Cymer, Inc. (a)

   35,000      779,100  

Hittite Microwave Corp. (a)

   16,800      524,160  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (a)

   173,400      676,260  

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. (a)

   16,700      361,722  
           
        2,755,392  
           

Software — 3.5%

     

Blackboard, Inc. (a)

   26,970      856,028  

DemandTec, Inc. (a)

   72,700      636,125  

Lawson Software, Inc. (a)

   106,550      452,837  
           
        1,944,990  
           

Specialty Retail — 6.4%

     

Bebe Stores, Inc.

   41,200      274,804  

CarMax, Inc. (a)(b)

   45,400      564,776  

Chico’s FAS, Inc. (a)

   71,300      382,881  

J. Crew Group, Inc. (a)(b)

   70,000      922,600  

Rent-A-Center, Inc. (a)

   29,500      571,415  

Sally Beauty Holdings, Inc. (a)(b)

   144,050      818,204  
           
        3,534,680  
           

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 3.6%

     

Carter’s, Inc. (a)

   44,000      827,640  

Iconix Brand Group, Inc. (a)

   67,800      600,030  

Movado Group, Inc.

   76,600      577,564  
           
        2,005,234  
           

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 1.0%

     

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

   49,800      542,820  

Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.5%

     

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.

   15,400      259,798  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $63,839,953) — 98.5%

        54,742,646  
           
     Shares/       
     Beneficial       
     Interest       

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60% (c)(d)

   776,348    $ 776,348  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market

     

Series, 1.17% (c)(d)(e)

   4,732,500      4,732,500  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $5,508,848) — 9.9%

        5,508,848  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $69,348,801*) — 108.4%

        60,251,494  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (8.4)%

        (4,652,557 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 55,598,937  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 69,587,016  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation.

   $ 3,163,536  

Gross unrealized depreciation.

     (12,499,058 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (9,335,522 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

     Net      

Affiliate

   Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 776,348 **   $ 1,752

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (3,794,300 )***   $ 31,075

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

12

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

     Investments

Valuation Inputs

   in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 60,251,494

Level 2

    

Level 3

    
      

Total

   $ 60,251,494
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    13


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 2.3%

     

Argon ST, Inc. (a)

   509,414    $ 9,663,584

BE Aerospace, Inc. (a)

   843,060      7,309,330
         
        16,972,914
         

Beverages — 1.3%

     

Heckmann Corp. (a)(b)

   2,040,100      9,833,282
         

Biotechnology — 3.0%

     

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. (a)

   221,600      4,389,896

Alkermes, Inc. (a)

   475,900      5,772,667

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc. (a)(b)

   129,700      1,601,795

Celera Corp. (a)

   502,600      3,834,838

Martek Biosciences Corp.

   373,000      6,807,250
         
        22,406,446
         

Building Products — 0.9%

     

Griffon Corp. (a)

   881,671      6,612,532
         

Capital Markets — 1.7%

     

Knight Capital Group, Inc. - Class A (a)

   318,600      4,696,164

RiskMetrics Group, Inc. (a)

   571,165      8,161,948
         
        12,858,112
         

Chemicals — 1.6%

     

Celanese Corp. - Series A

   196,400      2,625,868

Intrepid Potash, Inc. (a)(b)

   485,000      8,948,250
         
        11,574,118
         

Commercial Banks — 1.3%

     

Signature Bank (a)

   341,600      9,643,368
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 3.6%

     

Clean Harbors, Inc. (a)

   238,900      11,467,200

Sykes Enterprises, Inc. (a)

   924,597      15,376,048
         
        26,843,248
         

Communications Equipment — 2.9%

     

EMS Technologies, Inc. (a)

   489,578      8,548,032

Neutral Tandem, Inc. (a)

   541,108      13,316,668
         
        21,864,700
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.7%

     

Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. NV - ADR

   838,500      5,257,395
         

Containers & Packaging — 1.2%

     

Rock-Tenn Co. - Class A

   341,032      9,224,916
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 1.3%

     

DeVry, Inc.

   193,881      9,341,187
         

Diversified Financial Services — 1.5%

     

MSCI, Inc. - Class A (a)

   656,500      11,101,415
         

Electrical Equipment — 0.7%

     

Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (a)(b)

   422,300      5,603,921
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.4%

     

Cogent, Inc. (a)

   884,000      10,519,600
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.7%

     

Superior Energy Services, Inc. (a)

   412,477      5,316,828
         

Food Products — 1.7%

     

American Italian Pasta Co. - Class A (a)

   110,200      3,836,062

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc. (a)

   104,000      4,992,000

Smart Balance, Inc. (a)

   636,948      3,847,166
         
        12,675,228
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 8.1%

     

Hologic, Inc. (a)

   929,900      12,172,391
         

Merit Medical Systems, Inc. (a)

   728,230      8,891,688

NuVasive, Inc. (a)

   72,200      2,265,636

SonoSite, Inc. (a)(b)

   556,900      9,957,372

Symmetry Medical, Inc. (a)

   527,065      3,325,780

Thoratec Corp. (a)

   127,200      3,267,768

Wright Medical Group, Inc. (a)

   717,981      9,355,293

ZOLL Medical Corp. (a)

   773,577      11,108,566
         
        60,344,494
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 5.8%

     

Amedisys, Inc. (a)(b)

   290,400      7,983,096

Lincare Holdings, Inc. (a)

   392,983      8,567,029

Magellan Health Services, Inc. (a)

   388,200      14,146,008

MEDNAX, Inc. (a)

   413,200      12,177,004
         
        42,873,137
         

Health Care Technology — 2.2%

     

MedAssets, Inc. (a)

   661,600      9,427,800

Omnicell, Inc. (a)

   891,918      6,974,799
         
        16,402,599
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 3.8%

     

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Inc. (a)(b)

   307,700      7,040,176

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A (a)

   1,178,500      14,271,635

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. - Class A (a)

   539,900      5,145,247

WMS Industries, Inc. (a)

   85,700      1,791,987
         
        28,249,045
         

Household Durables — 0.9%

     

iRobot Corp. (a)(b)

   860,998      6,543,585
         

Insurance — 0.7%

     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   246,000      5,525,160
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.5%

     

Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc. (a)

   951,237      3,510,064
         

Internet Software & Services — 8.1%

     

comScore, Inc. (a)

   965,211      11,669,401

Omniture, Inc. (a)

   749,012      9,879,469

SkillSoft Plc - ADR (a)

   3,727,483      24,936,861

SonicWALL, Inc. (a)

   3,116,933      13,901,521
         
        60,387,252
         

IT Services — 7.4%

     

ExlService Holdings, Inc. (a)

   1,754,812      15,126,479

Forrester Research, Inc. (a)

   727,100      14,949,176

SRA International, Inc. - Class A (a)

   902,100      13,260,870

Wright Express Corp. (a)

   637,100      11,607,962
         
        54,944,487
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.4%

     

ICON Plc - ADR (a)

   164,905      2,663,216
         

Machinery — 2.7%

     

Bucyrus International, Inc.

   277,274      4,209,019

IDEX Corp.

   322,955      7,063,026

Kaydon Corp.

   337,200      9,215,676
         
        20,487,721
         

Media — 4.2%

     

CKX, Inc. (a)

   3,211,499      13,167,146

Dolan Media Co. (a)

   777,662      6,120,200

 

14

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Media (concluded)

     

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. - Class A (a)

   381,100    $ 8,247,004  

Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc. (a)

   208,342      1,420,892  

RHI Entertainment, Inc. (a)

   1,360,657      2,068,199  
           
        31,023,441  
           

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 3.8%

     

Comstock Resources, Inc. (a)

   262,610      7,825,778  

EXCO Resources, Inc. (a)

   795,000      7,950,000  

Massey Energy Co.

   480,052      4,858,126  

Plains Exploration & Production Co. (a)

   429,600      7,402,008  
           
        28,035,912  
           

Personal Products — 0.9%

     

Chattem, Inc. (a)(b)

   125,491      7,033,770  
           

Pharmaceuticals — 1.4%

     

Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp. - Class A

   630,300      7,796,811  

Santarus, Inc. (a)

   1,608,400      2,589,524  
           
        10,386,335  
           

Professional Services — 4.3%

     

The Advisory Board Co. (a)

   405,345      6,720,620  

Diamond Management & Technology Consultants, Inc.

   1,765,996      4,503,290  

IHS, Inc. - Class A (a)

   265,171      10,919,742  

TrueBlue, Inc. (a)

   244,200      2,014,650  

Watson Wyatt Worldwide, Inc. - Class A

   159,000      7,849,830  
           
        32,008,132  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 4.8%

     

FEI Co. (a)

   305,499      4,713,850  

Microsemi Corp. (a)

   635,300      7,369,480  

Monolithic Power Systems, Inc. (a)

   438,807      6,801,508  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (a)

   2,096,200      8,175,180  

Silicon Laboratories, Inc. (a)

   161,100      4,253,040  

Standard Microsystems Corp. (a)

   255,153      4,745,846  
           
        36,058,904  
           

Software — 7.4%

     

Blackboard, Inc. (a)(b)

   394,152      12,510,384  

DemandTec, Inc. (a)

   1,453,545      12,718,519  

i2 Technologies, Inc. (a)(b)

   1,426,905      11,272,550  

TiVo, Inc. (a)

   2,676,380      18,841,715  
           
        55,343,168  
           

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.8%

     

Lululemon Athletica, Inc. (a)(b)

   710,600      6,153,796  
           

Total Common Stocks — 96.0%

        715,623,428  
           

Exchange-Traded Funds — 1.7%

     

iShares Russell 2000 Growth Index Fund

   272,000      12,506,560  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $920,884,610) — 97.7%

        728,129,988  
           
     Shares/       
     Beneficial       
     Interest       

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60% (c)(d)

   35,260,342      35,260,342  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market

     

Series, 1.17% (d)(e)

   52,551,800      52,551,800  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $87,812,142) — 11.8%

        87,812,142  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $1,008,696,752*) — 109.5%

        815,942,130  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (9.5)%

        (71,017,863 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 744,924,267  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 1,015,230,164  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 33,074,961  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (232,362,995 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (199,288,034 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

     Net      

Affiliate

   Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 35,260,342 **   $ 20,841

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (86,865,550 )***   $ 1,007,684

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    15


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

     Investments

Valuation Inputs

   in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 815,942,130

Level 2

    

Level 3

    
      

Total

   $ 815,942,130
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

16

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 0.7%

     

Orbital Sciences Corp. (a)

   15,100    $ 179,539
         

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.4%

     

Hub Group, Inc. - Class A (a)

   5,900      100,300
         

Airlines — 0.8%

     

JetBlue Airways Corp. (a)

   52,900      193,085
         

Building Products — 0.3%

     

Lennox International, Inc.

   2,600      68,796
         

Capital Markets — 5.0%

     

Jefferies Group, Inc.

   16,900      233,220

KBW, Inc. (a)(b)

   23,500      478,225

Piper Jaffray Cos., Inc. (a)

   10,000      257,900

TradeStation Group, Inc. (a)

   34,380      226,908
         
        1,196,253
         

Chemicals — 2.7%

     

Sensient Technologies Corp.

   27,519      646,696
         

Commercial Banks — 9.0%

     

Associated Banc-Corp.

   12,300      189,912

Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.

   5,200      244,088

Fulton Financial Corp.

   28,800      190,944

Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

   15,900      249,789

PacWest Bancorp

   13,400      192,022

Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.

   13,300      363,755

TCF Financial Corp. (b)

   22,500      264,600

United Bankshares, Inc. (b)

   11,719      202,036

Westamerica Bancorp (b)

   6,100      277,916
         
        2,175,062
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 4.0%

     

The Brink’s Co.

   17,100      452,466

The GEO Group, Inc. (a)

   22,700      300,775

Waste Connections, Inc. (a)

   8,300      213,310
         
        966,551
         

Communications Equipment — 2.9%

     

ADTRAN, Inc.

   21,400      346,894

Arris Group, Inc. (a)

   16,500      121,605

Polycom, Inc. (a)

   14,700      226,233
         
        694,732
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.7%

     

Pike Electric Corp. (a)

   17,200      159,100
         

Containers & Packaging — 2.3%

     

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

   10,400      546,416
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 1.8%

     

Brink’s Home Security Holdings, Inc. (a)

   14,600      329,960

K12, Inc. (a)

   8,200      113,980
         
        443,940
         

Diversified Financial Services — 3.4%

     

PHH Corp. (a)

   58,682      824,482
         

Electric Utilities — 5.5%

     

Cleco Corp.

   16,000      347,040

El Paso Electric Co. (a)

   11,400      160,626

UIL Holdings Corp.

   14,400      321,408

Unisource Energy Corp.

   6,300      177,597

Westar Energy, Inc.

   18,800      329,564
         
        1,336,235
         

Electrical Equipment — 1.1%

     

Regal-Beloit Corp.

   8,700      266,568
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.5%

     

Anixter International, Inc. (a)

   5,400      171,072

Tech Data Corp. (a)

   9,100      198,198
         
        369,270
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 1.2%

     

Lufkin Industries, Inc.

   7,676      290,767
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.5%

     

BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. (a)

   7,400      236,726

Spartan Stores, Inc.

   8,900      137,149
         
        373,875
         

Food Products — 4.1%

     

Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc. (a)

   19,900      326,758

Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (a)

   16,900      240,656

Ralcorp Holdings, Inc. (a)

   5,400      290,952

Sanderson Farms, Inc.

   3,800      142,690
         
        1,001,056
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 2.0%

     

The Cooper Cos., Inc.

   10,900      288,196

Symmetry Medical, Inc. (a)

   9,400      59,314

Teleflex, Inc.

   3,300      128,997
         
        476,507
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 7.9%

     

HealthSouth Corp. (a)

   10,700      95,016

Kindred Healthcare, Inc. (a)

   27,300      408,135

Magellan Health Services, Inc. (a)

   14,405      524,918

MEDNAX, Inc. (a)

   4,200      123,774

MWI Veterinary Supply, Inc. (a)

   12,400      353,152

Skilled Healthcare Group, Inc. - Class A (a)

   9,300      76,353

Sun Healthcare Group, Inc. (a)

   37,866      319,589
         
        1,900,937
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 2.9%

     

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A (a)

   19,301      233,735

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

   17,200      218,440

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc. - Class A

   48,400      243,452
         
        695,627
         

Household Durables — 2.1%

     

Centex Corp.

   15,300      114,750

Jarden Corp. (a)

   31,900      404,173
         
        518,923
         

Insurance — 8.5%

     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   23,000      516,580

Endurance Specialty Holdings Ltd.

   20,100      501,294

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

   12,209      351,864

Navigators Group, Inc. (a)

   4,562      215,235

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   16,189      459,120
         
        2,044,093
         

Internet Software & Services — 2.1%

     

SkillSoft Plc - ADR (a)

   74,789      500,338
         

IT Services — 1.3%

     

Hewitt Associates, Inc. - Class A (a)

   10,200      303,552
         

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    17


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Machinery — 1.5%

     

Actuant Corp. - Class A

   13,200    $ 136,356  

IDEX Corp.

   10,500      229,635  
           
        365,991  
           

Metals & Mining — 0.5%

     

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.

   4,200      110,586  
           

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 3.5%

     

James River Coal Co. (a)

   23,500      289,990  

Southern Union Co.

   13,000      197,860  

Walter Industries, Inc.

   5,000      114,350  

Whiting Petroleum Corp. (a)

   9,000      232,650  
           
        834,850  
           

Personal Products — 2.2%

     

Alberto-Culver Co.

   14,000      316,540  

Chattem, Inc. (a)(b)

   3,900      218,595  
           
        535,135  
           

Professional Services — 0.6%

     

Huron Consulting Group, Inc. (a)

   3,500      148,505  
           

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 3.2%

     

Chimera Investment Corp.

   48,000      161,280  

Mack-Cali Realty Corp.

   6,600      130,746  

MFA Mortgage Investments, Inc.

   42,200      248,136  

Redwood Trust, Inc.

   15,800      242,530  
           
        782,692  
           

Road & Rail — 1.9%

     

Genesee & Wyoming, Inc. - Class A (a)

   16,500      350,625  

Landstar System, Inc.

   2,900      97,063  
           
        447,688  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 2.2%

     

Hittite Microwave Corp. (a)

   5,100      159,120  

Intersil Corp. - Class A

   19,200      220,800  

ON Semiconductor Corp. (a)

   36,000      140,400  
           
        520,320  
           

Software — 0.5%

     

Progress Software Corp. (a)

   6,800      118,048  
           

Specialty Retail — 2.7%

     

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. - Class A

   4,100      97,580  

J. Crew Group, Inc. (a)(b)

   9,400      123,892  

Rent-A-Center, Inc. (a)

   10,600      205,322  

Tractor Supply Co. (a)

   6,300      227,178  
           
        653,972  
           

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 1.9%

     

Carter’s, Inc. (a)

   8,400      158,004  

Phillips-Van Heusen Corp.

   12,800      290,304  
           
        448,308  
           

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 2.4%

     

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

   54,300      591,870  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $24,851,677) — 98.8%

        23,830,665  
           
     Shares/       
     Beneficial       
     Interest       

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60% (c)(d)

   433,276    $ 433,276  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market

     

Series, 1.17% (c)(d)(e)

   1,538,500      1,538,500  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $1,971,776) — 8.2%

        1,971,776  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $26,823,453*) — 107.0%

        25,802,441  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (7.0)%

        (1,682,565 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 24,119,876  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 27,434,068  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation.

   $ 5,153,023  

Gross unrealized depreciation.

     (6,784,650 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (1,631,627 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

     Net      

Affiliate

   Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 433,276 **   $ 1,067

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (339,000 )***   $ 10,500

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

 

18

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

     Investments

Valuation Inputs

   in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 25,802,441
      

Level 2

    

Level 3

    
      

Total

   $ 25,802,441
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    19


Statements of Assets and Liabilities

 

     Small Cap     Small Cap     Small Cap  
     Core Equity     Growth Equity     Value Equity  

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Portfolio     Portfolio     Portfolio  

Assets

      

Investments at value - unaffiliated1,2

   $ 54,742,646     $ 728,129,988     $ 23,830,665  

Investments at value - affiliated3

     5,508,848       87,812,142       1,971,776  

Cash

     4,169             268  

Investments sold receivable

     813,421       3,380,085       2,027,882  

Capital shares sold receivable

     143,347       1,709,641       1,000  

Dividends receivable

     80,083       94,461       22,537  

Receivable from advisor

     13,673       3,482       2,786  

Securities lending income receivable - affiliated

     1,982       59,623       644  

Dividends receivable - affiliated

     311       7,709       297  

Prepaid expenses

     42,467       88,627       43,975  

Other assets

           230,421        
                        

Total assets

     61,350,947       821,516,179       27,901,830  
                        

Liabilities

      

Collateral at value - securities loaned

     4,732,500       52,551,800       1,538,500  

Bank overdraft - affiliated

           531        

Investments purchased payable

     706,334       20,249,464       1,968,198  

Capital shares redeemed payable

     144,904       2,971,014       212,844  

Other affiliates payable

     61,681       299,479       21,359  

Investment advisory fees payable

     42,028       324,797       840  

Service and distribution fees payable

     18,406       54,626       5,509  

Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

     6,415       8,243       6,444  

Other accrued expenses payable

     39,742       131,958       28,260  
                        

Total liabilities

     5,752,010       76,591,912       3,781,954  
                        

Net Assets

   $ 55,598,937     $ 744,924,267     $ 24,119,876  
                        

Net Assets Consist of

      

Paid-in capital

   $ 103,929,597     $ 1,563,436,997     $ 46,238,554  

Undistributed net investment income

     165,645       2,953,622       34,607  

Accumulated net realized loss

     (39,398,998 )     (628,711,730 )     (21,132,273 )

Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (9,097,307 )     (192,754,622 )     (1,021,012 )
                        

Net Assets

   $ 55,598,937     $ 744,924,267     $ 24,119,876  
                        

1 Investments at cost - unaffiliated

   $ 63,839,953     $ 920,884,610     $ 24,851,677  

2 Securities loaned at value

   $ 4,533,980     $ 50,881,254     $ 1,506,910  

3 Investments at cost - affiliated

   $ 5,508,848     $ 87,812,142     $ 1,971,776  

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Assets and Liabilities (concluded)

 

     Small Cap    Small Cap    Small Cap
     Core Equity    Growth Equity    Value Equity

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Portfolio    Portfolio    Portfolio

Net Asset Value

        

BlackRock:

        

Net Assets

             $ 35,928
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

               6,960
                    

Net Asset Value

             $ 5.16
                    

Institutional:

        

Net Assets

   $ 23,899,351    $ 545,492,954    $ 11,263,567
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     2,438,699      41,989,156      2,179,215
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 9.80    $ 12.99    $ 5.17
                    

Service:

        

Net Assets

   $ 309,582    $ 27,628,828    $ 848,591
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     31,924      2,243,179      169,454
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 9.70    $ 12.32    $ 5.01
                    

Investor A:

        

Net Assets

   $ 14,013,889    $ 152,061,359    $ 9,822,162
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     1,460,449      12,714,439      1,983,033
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 9.60    $ 11.96    $ 4.95
                    

Investor B:

        

Net Assets

   $ 3,001,092    $ 2,808,196    $ 834,286

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     323,828      267,148      210,500
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 9.27    $ 10.51    $ 3.96
                    

Investor C:

        

Net Assets

   $ 14,375,023    $ 16,932,930    $ 1,315,342
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     1,554,230      1,611,038      333,291
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 9.25    $ 10.51    $ 3.95
                    

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    21


Statements of Operations

 

     Small Cap     Small Cap     Small Cap  
     Core Equity     Growth Equity     Value Equity  

Six Months Ended March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Portfolio     Portfolio     Portfolio  

Investment Income

      

Dividends

   $ 395,977     $ 990,473     $ 275,892  

Securities lending - affiliated

     31,075       1,007,684       10,500  

Interest and dividends - affiliated

     1,968       21,441       1,102  

Interest

     902       5,108       80  
                        

Total investment income

     429,922       2,024,706       287,574  
                        

Expenses

      

Investment advisory

     328,024       2,036,161       78,520  

Transfer agent - class specific

     128,963       866,301       41,894  

Service and distribution - class specific

     127,790       335,133       29,513  

Administration

     24,602       265,569       10,707  

Registration

     21,628       32,016       21,388  

Printing

     17,736       116,040       10,782  

Professional

     15,274       25,264       14,774  

Custodian

     10,891       32,008       12,737  

Administration - class specific

     8,212       90,505       3,574  

Officer and Trustees

     7,894       12,386       7,656  

Miscellaneous

     6,684       14,442       6,982  
                        

Total expenses

     697,698       3,825,825       238,527  

Less fees waived by advisor

     (11,709 )     (1,068 )     (40,725 )

Less administration fees waived - class specific

     (8,209 )     (5,947 )     (2,695 )

Less transfer agent fees waived - class specific

     (8,252 )     (3,704 )     (1,016 )

Less transfer agent fees reimbursed - class specific

     (73,511 )     (17,052 )     (12,765 )

Less fees paid indirectly

     (314 )     (991 )     (55 )
                        

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     595,703       3,797,063       181,271  
                        

Net investment income (loss)

     (165,781 )     (1,772,357 )     106,303  
                        

Realized and Unrealized Loss

      

Net realized loss from investments

     (27,662,265 )     (175,046,971 )     (14,898,111 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments

     (9,452,965 )     (193,027,137 )     (1,405,557 )
                        

Total realized and unrealized loss

     (37,115,230 )     (368,074,108 )     (16,303,668 )
                        

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

   $ (37,281,011 )   $ (369,846,465 )   $ (16,197,365 )
                        

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

22

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

     Small Cap Core
Equity Portfolio
    Small Cap
Growth Equity
Portfolio
    Small Cap Value
Equity Portfolio
 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:

   Six Months
Ended

March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended

March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended

March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 

Operations

            

Net investment income (loss)

   $ (165,781 )   $ (824,702 )   $ (1,772,357 )   $ 73,105     $ 106,303     $ 128,517  

Net realized gain (loss)

     (27,662,265 )     (11,478,306 )     (175,046,971 )     23,710,054       (14,898,111 )     (5,732,363 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (9,452,965 )     (9,749,568 )     (193,027,137 )     (161,736,801 )     (1,405,557 )     (4,920,623 )
                                                

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

     (37,281,011 )     (22,052,576 )     (369,846,465 )     (137,953,642 )     (16,197,365 )     (10,524,469 )
                                                

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From

            

Net investment income:

            

BlackRock

     —         —         —         —         (11,359 )     —    

Institutional

     —         —         —         —         (74,533 )     (45,006 )

Service

     —         —         —         —         (5,298 )     —    

Investor A

     —         —         —         —         (52,689 )     —    

Investor B

     —         —         —         —         (4,979 )     —    

Investor C

     —         —         —         —         (6,349 )     —    

Tax return of capital:

            

BlackRock

     —         —         —         —         —         (87,513 )

Institutional

     —         —         —         —         —         (628,719 )

Service

     —         —         —         —         —         (51,758 )

Investor A

     —         —         —         —         —         (574,809 )

Investor B

     —         —         —         —         —         (119,712 )

Investor C

     —         —         —         —         —         (102,421 )

Net realized gain:

            

BlackRock

     —         —         —         —         —         (472,617 )

Institutional

     —         (2,956,776 )     —         —         —         (3,425,943 )

Service

     —         (358,504 )     —         —         —         (280,468 )

Investor A

     —         (2,250,029 )     —         —         —         (3,071,371 )

Investor B

     —         (603,710 )     —         —         —         (607,482 )

Investor C

     —         (2,458,205 )     —         —         —         (519,399 )
                                                

Decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and distributions to shareholders

     —         (8,627,224 )     —         —         (155,207 )     (9,987,218 )
                                                

Capital Share Transactions

            

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

     (4,843,866 )     19,065,677       133,249,982       274,159,643       (3,878,444 )     (4,047,188 )
                                                

Redemption Fees

            

Redemption fees

     11,271       7,309       53,704       85,371       268       394  
                                                

Net Assets

            

Total increase (decrease) in net assets

     (42,113,606 )     (11,606,814 )     (236,542,779 )     136,291,372       (20,230,748 )     (24,558,481 )

Beginning of period

     97,712,543       109,319,357       981,467,046       845,175,674       44,350,624       68,909,105  
                                                

End of period

   $ 55,598,937     $ 97,712,543     $ 744,924,267     $ 981,467,046     $ 24,119,876     $ 44,350,624  
                                                

End of period undistributed net investment income

   $ 165,645     $ 331,426     $ 2,953,622     $ 4,725,979     $ 34,607     $ 83,511  
                                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    23


Financial Highlights      Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

 

     Institutional     Service  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 15.86     $ 21.21     $ 18.50     $ 17.62     $ 14.77     $ 11.99     $ 15.73     $ 21.05     $ 18.41     $ 17.59     $ 14.73     $ 11.99  
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)1

     0.00 2     (0.05 )     (0.13 )     (0.12 )     (0.10 )     (0.13 )     (0.04 )     (0.09 )     (0.18 )     (0.18 )     (0.13 )     (0.20 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (6.06 )     (3.63 )     3.15       1.30       3.06       3.01       (5.99 )     (3.61 )     3.13       1.30       3.10       3.04  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (6.06 )     (3.68 )     3.02       1.18       2.96       2.88       (6.03 )     (3.70 )     2.95       1.12       2.97       2.84  
                                                                                                

Distributions from net realized gain

     —         (1.67 )     (0.31 )     (0.30 )     (0.11 )     (0.15 )     —         (1.62 )     (0.31 )     (0.30 )     (0.11 )     (0.15 )
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.05       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.05  
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 9.80     $ 15.86     $ 21.21     $ 18.50     $ 17.62     $ 14.77     $ 9.70     $ 15.73     $ 21.05     $ 18.41     $ 17.59     $ 14.73  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

     (38.21 )%3,4     (18.37 )%3     16.46 %3     6.81 %3     20.10 %3     24.51 %5     (38.33 )%3,4     (18.59 )%3     16.15 %3     6.47 %3     20.22 %3     24.17 %5
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.30 %6     1.30 %     1.30 %     1.30 %     1.30 %     1.30 %     1.60 %6     1.58 %     1.57 %     1.60 %     1.60 %     1.60 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     1.50 %6     1.40 %     1.38 %     1.47 %     1.81 %     2.37 %     1.87 %6     1.64 %     1.59 %     1.64 %     2.01 %     2.67 %
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)

     0.02 %6     (0.26 )%     (0.62 )%     (0.68 )%     (0.59 )%     (0.89 )%     (0.65 )%6     (0.51 )%     (0.88 )%     (0.99 )%     (0.80 )%     (1.19 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 23,899     $ 38,685     $ 33,707     $ 24,172     $ 12,641     $ 1,802     $ 310     $ 3,430     $ 4,909     $ 2,776     $ 94     $ —   7
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     74 %     103 %     103 %     111 %     118 %     78 %     74 %     103 %     103 %     111 %     118 %     78 %
                                                                                                

 

     Investor A  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

            

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 15.57     $ 20.86     $ 18.27     $ 17.49     $ 14.71     $ 11.99  
                                                

Net investment loss1

     (0.02 )     (0.12 )     (0.21 )     (0.20 )     (0.17 )     (0.24 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (5.95 )     (3.58 )     3.11       1.28       3.06       3.04  
                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (5.97 )     (3.70 )     2.90       1.08       2.89       2.80  
                                                

Distributions from net realized gain

     —         (1.59 )     (0.31 )     (0.30 )     (0.11 )     (0.15 )
                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.07  
                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 9.60     $ 15.57     $ 20.86     $ 18.27     $ 17.49     $ 14.71  
                                                

Total Investment Return

            

Based on net asset value8

     (38.34 )%3,4     (18.74 )%3     16.00 %3     6.28 %3     19.71 %3     24.01 %9
                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

            

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.77 %6     1.76 %     1.74 %     1.73 %     1.71 %     1.74 %
                                                

Total expenses

     2.19 %6     1.90 %     1.80 %     1.90 %     2.17 %     2.89 %
                                                

Net investment loss

     (0.45 )%6     (0.69 )%     (1.06 )%     (1.11 )%     (1.01 )%     (1.32 )%
                                                

Supplemental Data

            

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 14,014     $ 23,687     $ 29,070     $ 20,973     $ 11,997     $ 3,154  
                                                

Portfolio turnover

     74 %     103 %     103 %     111 %     118 %     78 %
                                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

24

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)      Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

 

     Investor B  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

            

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 15.09     $ 20.23     $ 17.87     $ 17.24     $ 14.61     $ 11.99  
                                                

Net investment loss1

     (0.06 )     (0.24 )     (0.36 )     (0.33 )     (0.28 )     (0.37 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (5.76 )     (3.48 )     3.03       1.26       3.02       3.07  
                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (5.82 )     (3.72 )     2.67       0.93       2.74       2.70  
                                                

Distributions from net realized gain

     —         (1.42 )     (0.31 )     (0.30 )     (0.11 )     (0.15 )
                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.07  
                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 9.27     $ 15.09     $ 20.23     $ 17.87     $ 17.24     $ 14.61  
                                                

Total Investment Return

            

Based on net asset value8

     (38.57 )%3,4     (19.36 )%3     15.06 %3     5.49 %3     18.81 %3     23.17 %9
                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

            

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.52 %6     2.51 %     2.51 %     2.49 %     2.44 %     2.49 %
                                                

Total expenses

     2.87 %6     2.60 %     2.57 %     2.55 %     2.81 %     3.56 %
                                                

Net investment loss

     (1.22 )%6     (1.42 )%     (1.84 )%     (1.87 )%     (1.74 )%     (2.07 )%
                                                

Supplemental Data

            

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 3,001     $ 5,724     $ 8,956     $ 8,326     $ 6,303     $ 1,157  
                                                

Portfolio turnover

     74 %     103 %     103 %     111 %     118 %     78 %
                                                
     Investor C  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

            

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 15.07     $ 20.25     $ 17.87     $ 17.23     $ 14.60     $ 11.99  
                                                

Net investment loss1

     (0.06 )     (0.24 )     (0.35 )     (0.32 )     (0.28 )     (0.28 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (5.76 )     (3.47 )     3.04       1.26       3.02       2.99  
                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (5.82 )     (3.71 )     2.69       0.94       2.74       2.71  
                                                

Distributions from net realized gain

     —         (1.47 )     (0.31 )     (0.30 )     (0.11 )     (0.15 )
                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.05  
                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 9.25     $ 15.07     $ 20.25     $ 17.87     $ 17.23     $ 14.60  
                                                

Total Investment Return

            

Based on net asset value8

     (38.62 )%3,4     (19.34 )%3     15.17 %3     5.55 %3     18.82 %3     23.08 %5
                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

            

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.52 %6     2.50 %     2.48 %     2.44 %     2.44 %     2.47 %
                                                

Total expenses

     2.89 %6     2.60 %     2.54 %     2.48 %     2.80 %     3.56 %
                                                

Net investment loss

     (1.21 )%6     (1.43 )%     (1.81 )%     (1.81 )%     (1.74 )%     (2.03 )%
                                                

Supplemental Data

            

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 14,375     $ 26,187     $ 32,677     $ 26,151     $ 17,266     $ 3,352  
                                                

Portfolio turnover

     74 %     103 %     103 %     111 %     118 %     78 %
                                                

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.42%.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Net assets end of period are less than $500.

 

8 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

9 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.59%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    25


Financial Highlights (continued)      Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

     Institutional     Service  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 20.33     $ 23.71     $ 19.26     $ 17.29     $ 14.52     $ 12.26     $ 19.30     $ 22.58     $ 18.38     $ 16.54     $ 13.92     $ 11.79  
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)1

     (0.02 )     0.03       (0.07 )     (0.09 )     (0.06 )     (0.11 )     (0.04 )     (0.03 )     (0.11 )     (0.13 )     (0.11 )     (0.15 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (7.32 )     (3.41 )     4.52       2.06       2.82       2.37       (6.94 )     (3.25 )     4.31       1.97       2.72       2.28  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (7.34 )     (3.38 )     4.45       1.97       2.76       2.26       (6.98 )     (3.28 )     4.20       1.84       2.61       2.13  
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 12.99     $ 20.33     $ 23.71     $ 19.26     $ 17.29     $ 14.52     $ 12.32     $ 19.30     $ 22.58     $ 18.38     $ 16.54     $ 13.92  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

     (36.11 )%3,4     (14.26 )%3     23.11 %3     11.39 %3     19.08 %5     18.43 %3     (36.17 )%3,4     (14.53 )%3     22.85 %3     11.12 %3     18.82 %5     18.07 %3
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     0.88 %6     0.77 %     0.82 %     0.83 %     0.94 %     0.92 %     1.15 %6     1.07 %     1.02 %     1.08 %     1.19 %     1.20 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     0.88 %6     0.77 %     0.82 %     0.83 %     0.95 %     0.93 %     1.22 %6     1.07 %     1.02 %     1.08 %     1.19 %     1.20 %
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)

     (0.34 )%6     0.15 %     (0.34 )%     (0.48 )%     (0.40 )%     (0.73 )%     (0.58 )%6     (0.14 )%     (0.54 )%     (0.73 )%     (0.70 )%     (1.02 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 545,493     $ 699,761     $ 587,586     $ 426,000     $ 357,857     $ 272,324     $ 27,629     $ 40,514     $ 35,945     $ 26,422     $ 24,491     $ 29,569  
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     41 %     81 %     81 %     74 %     91 %     81 %     41 %     81 %     81 %     74 %     91 %     81 %
                                                                                                
     Investor A     Investor B  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 18.76     $ 21.97     $ 17.90     $ 16.12     $ 13.57     $ 11.51     $ 16.56     $ 19.57     $ 16.07     $ 14.61     $ 12.39     $ 10.59  
                                                                                                

Net investment loss1

     (0.05 )     (0.05 )     (0.13 )     (0.14 )     (0.10 )     (0.16 )     (0.09 )     (0.21 )     (0.26 )     (0.27 )     (0.20 )     (0.24 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (6.75 )     (3.16 )     4.20       1.92       2.64       2.22       (5.96 )     (2.80 )     3.76       1.73       2.41       2.04  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (6.80 )     (3.21 )     4.07       1.78       2.54       2.06       (6.05 )     (3.01 )     3.50       1.46       2.21       1.80  
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 11.96     $ 18.76     $ 21.97     $ 17.90     $ 16.12     $ 13.57     $ 10.51     $ 16.56     $ 19.57     $ 16.07     $ 14.61     $ 12.39  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value7

     (36.25 )%3,4     (14.61 )%3     22.74 %3     11.04 %3     18.79 %5     17.90 %3     (36.53 )%3,4     (15.38 )%3     21.78 %3     9.99 %3     17.92 %8     17.00 %3
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.34 %6     1.16 %     1.12 %     1.15 %     1.19 %     1.30 %     2.21 %6     2.08 %     1.92 %     2.11 %     1.94 %     2.07 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     1.34 %6     1.16 %     1.12 %     1.25 %     1.29 %     1.40 %     2.38 %6     2.08 %     2.02 %     2.30 %     1.94 %     2.07 %
                                                                                                

Net investment loss

     (0.79 )%6     (0.22 )%     (0.64 )%     (0.80 )%     (0.66 )%     (1.12 )%     (1.56 )%6     (1.11 )%     (1.44 )%     (1.77 )%     (1.45 )%     (1.89 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 152,061     $ 211,065     $ 189,575     $ 176,250     $ 160,374     $ 131,795     $ 2,808     $ 5,721     $ 10,222     $ 10,649     $ 15,516     $ 23,983  
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     41 %     81 %     81 %     74 %     91 %     81 %     41 %     81 %     81 %     74 %     91 %     81 %
                                                                                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

26

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)      Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

     Investor C  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

            

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 16.56     $ 19.57     $ 16.09     $ 14.62     $ 12.40     $ 10.60  
                                                

Net investment loss1

     (0.09 )     (0.21 )     (0.29 )     (0.26 )     (0.19 )     (0.25 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (5.96 )     (2.80 )     3.77       1.73       2.40       2.05  
                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (6.05 )     (3.01 )     3.48       1.47       2.21       1.80  
                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2
                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 10.51     $ 16.56     $ 19.57     $ 16.09     $ 14.62     $ 12.40  
                                                

Total Investment Return

            

Based on net asset value7

     (36.53 )%3,4     (15.38 )%3     21.63 %3     10.05 %3     17.90 %8     16.98 %3
                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

            

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.21 %6     2.08 %     2.04 %     2.02 %     1.94 %     2.08 %
                                                

Total expenses

     2.34 %6     2.08 %     2.09 %     2.02 %     1.94 %     2.08 %
                                                

Net investment loss

     (1.65 )%6     (1.14 )%     (1.56 )%     (1.68 )%     (1.41 )%     (1.90 )%
                                                

Supplemental Data

            

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 16,933     $ 24,405     $ 21,847     $ 15,667     $ 15,434     $ 13,989  
                                                

Portfolio turnover

     41 %     81 %     81 %     74 %     91 %     81 %
                                                

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.07%.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

8 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.08%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    27


Financial Highlights (continued)      Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

 

     BlackRock     Institutional  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
April 12, 2004to
September 30, 2004
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005         2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 8.31     $ 11.83     $ 13.46     $ 15.16     $ 15.23     $ 16.02     $ 8.32     $ 11.86     $ 13.49     $ 15.17     $ 15.22     $ 14.17  
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)2

     0.03       0.03       0.04       (0.00 )3     0.02       (0.00 )3     0.03       0.05       0.07       0.03       0.04       (0.02 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (3.15 )     (1.75 )     1.27       1.21       2.90       (0.79 )     (3.15 )     (1.75 )     1.28       1.21       2.90       2.86  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (3.12 )     (1.72 )     1.31       1.21       2.92       (0.79 )     (3.12 )     (1.70 )     1.35       1.24       2.94       2.84  
                                                                                                

Dividends and distributions from:

                        

Net investment income

     (0.03 )     —         (0.29 )     (0.17 )     —         —         (0.03 )     (0.02 )     (0.33 )     (0.18 )     —         —    

Tax return of capital

     —         (0.29 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.31 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

     —         (1.51 )     (2.65 )     (2.74 )     (2.99 )     —         —         (1.51 )     (2.65 )     (2.74 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )
                                                                                                

Total dividends and distributions

     (0.03 )     (1.80 )     (2.94 )     (2.91 )     (2.99 )     —         (0.03 )     (1.84 )     (2.98 )     (2.92 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital3

     0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00  
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 5.16     $ 8.31     $ 11.83     $ 13.46     $ 15.16     $ 15.23     $ 5.17     $ 8.32     $ 11.86     $ 13.49     $ 15.17     $ 15.22  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value4

     (37.55 )%5     (16.96 )%     9.90 %     9.61 %     20.60 %     (4.93 )%5     (37.48 )%5     (16.83 )%     10.20 %     9.81 %     20.77 %     20.87 %
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.10 %6     1.10 %     1.08 %     1.10 %     1.07 %     1.10 %6     0.95 %6     0.90 %     0.86 %     0.89 %     0.97 %     0.95 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     1.35 %6     1.25 %     1.10 %     1.12 %     1.08 %     1.33 %6     1.36 %6     1.01 %     0.87 %     0.91 %     1.00 %     0.98 %
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)

     1.01 %6     0.33 %     0.32 %     (0.01 )%     0.16 %     (0.17 )%6     1.06 %6     0.55 %     0.57 %     0.23 %     0.26 %     (0.15 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 36     $ 3,046     $ 4,929     $ 4,454     $ 5,162     $ 4,787     $ 11,264     $ 19,077     $ 27,999     $ 36,480     $ 68,880     $ 66,083  
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     125 %     159 %     108 %     123 %     133 %     154 %     125 %     159 %     108 %     123 %     133 %     154 %
                                                                                                

 

     Service     Investor A  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 8.07     $ 11.57     $ 13.21     $ 14.95     $ 15.07     $ 14.09     $ 7.98     $ 11.45     $ 13.11     $ 14.86     $ 15.00     $ 14.04  
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)2

     0.02       0.02       0.04       (0.02 )     (0.00 )3     (0.07 )     0.02       0.01       0.02       (0.03 )     (0.00 )3     (0.09 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (3.05 )     (1.71 )     1.25       1.19       2.87       2.84       (3.02 )     (1.69 )     1.24       1.19       2.85       2.84  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (3.03 )     (1.69 )     1.29       1.17       2.87       2.77       (3.00 )     (1.68 )     1.26       1.16       2.85       2.75  
                                                                                                

Dividends and distributions from:

                        

Net investment income

     (0.03 )     —         (0.28 )     (0.17 )     —         —         (0.03 )     —         (0.27 )     (0.17 )     —         —    

Tax return of capital

     —         (0.30 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.28 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

     —         (1.51 )     (2.65 )     (2.74 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )     —         (1.51 )     (2.65 )     (2.74 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )
                                                                                                

Total dividends and distributions

     (0.03 )     (1.81 )     (2.93 )     (2.91 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )     (0.03 )     (1.79 )     (2.92 )     (2.91 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital3

     0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00  
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 5.01     $ 8.07     $ 11.57     $ 13.21     $ 14.95     $ 15.07     $ 4.95     $ 7.98     $ 11.45     $ 13.11     $ 14.86     $ 15.00  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value4

     (37.58 )%5     (17.15 )%     9.92 %     9.45 %     20.46 %     20.45 %     (37.66 )%5,7     (17.23 )%7     9.79 %7     9.40 %7     20.43 %7     20.38 %7
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.27 %6     1.26 %     1.10 %     1.27 %     1.24 %     1.25 %     1.43 %6     1.32 %     1.23 %     1.29 %     1.24 %     1.35 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     1.81 %6     1.40 %     1.12 %     1.32 %     1.25 %     1.29 %     1.79 %6     1.44 %     1.24 %     1.40 %     1.35 %     1.47 %
                                                                                                

Net investment income (loss)

     0.74 %6     0.19 %     0.34 %     (0.18 )%     (0.03 )%     (0.45 )%     0.58 %6     0.12 %     0.17 %     (0.19 )%     (0.01 )%     (0.55 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 849     $ 1,546     $ 2,143     $ 3,852     $ 3,405     $ 3,288     $ 9,822     $ 16,490     $ 25,737     $ 27,943     $ 31,889     $ 35,240  
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     125 %     159 %     108 %     123 %     133 %     154 %     125 %     159 %     108 %     123 %     133 %     154 %
                                                                                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

28

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (concluded)      Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

 

     Investor B     Investor C  
     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 6.41     $ 9.53     $ 11.30     $ 13.28     $ 13.77     $ 13.11     $ 6.38     $ 9.50     $ 11.31     $ 13.28     $ 13.78     $ 13.11  
                                                                                                

Net investment loss2

     (0.00 )3     (0.05 )     (0.05 )     (0.12 )     (0.10 )     (0.19 )     (0.00 )3     (0.05 )     (0.06 )     (0.11 )     (0.10 )     (0.19 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (2.43 )     (1.36 )     1.07       1.03       2.60       2.64       (2.41 )     (1.36 )     1.05       1.03       2.59       2.65  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (2.43 )     (1.41 )     1.02       0.91       2.50       2.45       (2.41 )     (1.41 )     0.99       0.92       2.49       2.46  
                                                                                                

Dividends and distributions from:

                        

Net investment income

     (0.02 )     —         (0.14 )     (0.15 )     —         —         (0.02 )     —         (0.15 )     (0.15 )     —         —    

Tax return of capital

     —         (0.20 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.20 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

     —         (1.51 )     (2.65 )     (2.74 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )     —         (1.51 )     (2.65 )     (2.74 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )
                                                                                                

Total dividends and distributions

     (0.02 )     (1.71 )     (2.79 )     (2.89 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )     (0.02 )     (1.71 )     (2.80 )     (2.89 )     (2.99 )     (1.79 )
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital3

     0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00       0.00  
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 3.96     $ 6.41     $ 9.53     $ 11.30     $ 13.28     $ 13.77     $ 3.95     $ 6.38     $ 9.50     $ 11.31     $ 13.28     $ 13.78  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

                        

Based on net asset value4,7

     (37.95 )%5     (17.79 )%     9.08 %     8.46 %     19.58 %     19.45 %     (37.81 )%5     (17.87 )%     8.80 %     8.56 %     19.49 %     19.53 %
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

                        

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     2.19 %6     2.12 %     1.92 %     2.12 %     2.00 %     2.07 %     2.19 %6     2.16 %     2.04 %     2.10 %     2.00 %     2.09 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     2.84 %6     2.31 %     2.08 %     2.23 %     2.00 %     2.09 %     2.66 %6     2.28 %     2.05 %     2.11 %     2.00 %     2.11 %
                                                                                                

Net investment loss

     (0.18 )%6     (0.63 )%     (0.48 )%     (1.01 )%     (0.76 )%     (1.28 )%     (0.17 )%6     (0.70 )%     (0.64 )%     (1.00 )%     (0.76 )%     (1.30 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

                        

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 834     $ 1,947     $ 4,479     $ 7,373     $ 12,848     $ 15,952     $ 1,315     $ 2,244     $ 3,622     $ 4,643     $ 6,414     $ 6,715  
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     125 %     159 %     108 %     123 %     133 %     154 %     125 %     159 %     108 %     123 %     133 %     154 %
                                                                                                

 

1 Commencement of operations.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    29


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies:

BlackRock FundsSM (the “Fund”), a Massachusetts business trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. As of March 31, 2009, the Fund had 27 registered portfolios, of which the BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio (“Small Cap Core Equity”), BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio (“Small Cap Growth Equity”) and BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio (“Small Cap Value Equity”)(collectively the “Portfolios”) are included in these financial statements. The Portfolios’ financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Portfolio offers multiple classes of shares. BlackRock and Institutional Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain eligible investors. Service Shares are sold without a sales charge. Investor A Shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares of Investor B and Investor C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except that the BlackRock, Service, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C Shares may bear certain expenses related to the service and/or distribution of such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to matters relating to its service and distribution expenditures (except that Investor B shareholders may vote on material changes to the Investor A distribution plan).

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolios:

Valuation of Investments: Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange or the NASDAQ Global Market System are valued at the last reported sale price that day or the NASDAQ official closing price, if applicable. For equity investments traded on more than one exchange, the last reported sale price on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded is used. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last available bid price. If no bid price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the security. Short-term securities with maturities less than 60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments in investment companies are valued at the net asset value each business day. The Portfolios value their investments in the BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series at fair value, which is ordinarily based upon their pro rata ownership in the net assets of the underlying fund.

In the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment which is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, the investment will be valued by a method approved by the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) as reflecting fair value (“Fair Value Assets”). When determining the price for Fair Value Assets, the investment advisor seeks to determine the price that the Portfolios might reasonably expect to receive from the current sale of that asset in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the investment advisor deems relevant. The pricing of all Fair Value Assets is subsequently reported to the Board or a committee thereof.

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Portfolios have determined the ex-dividend date. Upon notification from issuers, some of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Income, realized and unrealized gains and losses of the Portfolios are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

Dividends and Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by the Portfolios are recorded on the ex-dividend dates.

Securities Lending: The Portfolios may lend securities to financial institutions that provide cash which will be maintained at all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Portfolios and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Portfolios on the next business day. The Portfolios typically receive income on the loaned securities but do not receive the income on the collateral. The Portfolios may invest the cash collateral and retain the amount earned on such investment, net of any amount rebated to the borrower. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions. The Portfolios may pay reasonable lending agent, administrative and custodial fees in connection with their loans. In the event that the borrower defaults on its obligation to return borrowed securities because of insolvency or for any other reason, the Portfolios could experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Portfolios also could suffer a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of loaned securities.

Income Taxes: It is each Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of their taxable income to their shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax may be imposed on interest, dividends and capital gains at various rates.

The Portfolios file US federal and various state and local tax returns. No income tax returns are currently under examination. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s US federal income tax returns remain open for each of the four years ended September 30, 2008. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s state and local tax returns may remain open for an additional year depending upon the jurisdiction.

 

30

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncement: In March 2008, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”), was issued. FAS 161 is intended to improve financial reporting for derivative instruments by requiring enhanced disclosure that enables investors to understand how and why an entity uses derivatives, how derivatives are accounted for, and how derivative instruments affect an entity’s results of operations and financial position. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The impact on each Portfolio’s financial statement disclosures is currently being assessed.

Bank Overdraft: As of March 31, 2009, Small Cap Growth Equity recorded a bank overdraft resulting from the estimation of available cash. The overdraft balance incurs fees charged by the custodian which are included in custodian on the Statements of Operations.

Other: Expenses directly related to a Portfolio or class are charged to that Portfolio or class. Other operating expenses shared by several funds are pro-rated among those funds on the basis of relative net assets or other appropriate methods. Other expenses of a Portfolio are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

2. Investment Advisory Agreement and Other Transactions with Affiliates:

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Advisor”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc., to provide investment advisory services. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) and Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”) are the largest stockholders of BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BAC became a stockholder of BlackRock following its acquisition of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. (“Merrill Lynch”) on January 1, 2009. Prior to that date, both PNC and Merrill Lynch were considered affiliates of the Fund under the 1940 Act. Subsequent to the acquisition, PNC remains an affiliate, but due to the restructuring of Merrill Lynch’s ownership interest of BlackRock, BAC is not deemed to be an affiliate under the 1940 Act.

The Advisor is responsible for the management of each Portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services necessary to the operations of the Portfolios. For such services, each Portfolio pays the Advisor a monthly fee based on the average daily value of the Portfolio’s net assets, at the following annual rates:

 

Average Daily Net Assets

   Small Cap
Growth Equity
and Small Cap
Value Equity
 

First $1 Billion

   0.550 %

$1 Billion - $2 Billion

   0.500  

$2 Billion - $3 Billion

   0.475  

Greater Than $3 Billion

   0.450  

Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio pays an advisory fee at an annual rate of 1.00% of average daily net assets.

The Advisor contractually agreed to waive or reimburse fees or expenses until February 1, 2010, in order to limit expenses. These expense limits apply to the aggregate expenses incurred on a share class (excluding: interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, expenses incurred as a result of investments in other funds and other expenses attributable to, and incurred as a result of, a Portfolio’s investments and other extraordinary expenses). This agreement is reviewed annually by the Board. The current expense limitations as a percentage of net assets are as follows:

 

Share Classes

   Small Cap
Core Equity
    Small Cap
Growth Equity
    Small Cap
Value Equity
 

BlackRock

   N/A     N/A     1.10 %

Institutional

   1.30 %   0.99 %   0.97 %

Service

   1.60 %   1.29 %   1.27 %

Investor A

   1.77 %   1.46 %   1.44 %

Investor B

   2.52 %   2.21 %   2.19 %

Investor C

   2.52 %   2.21 %   2.19 %

PFPC Trust Company, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as custodian for each Portfolio. For these services, the custodian receives a fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily gross assets of each Portfolio. The fee is paid at the following annual rates: 0.005% of the first $400 million, 0.004% of the next $1.6 billion, and 0.003% of average daily gross assets in excess of $2 billion; plus per transaction charges and other miscellaneous fees incurred on behalf of each Portfolio.

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc. (“PNCGIS”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Each class of each Portfolio bears the costs of transfer agent fees associated with such respective class. Transfer agent fees borne by each class of each Portfolio are comprised of those fees charged for all shareholder communications including mailing of shareholder reports, dividend and distribution notices, and proxy materials for shareholders meetings, as well as per account and per transaction fees related to servicing and maintenance of shareholder accounts, including the issuing, redeeming and transferring of shares of each class of each Portfolio, 12b-1 fee calculations, check writing, anti-money laundering services, and customer identification services.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    31


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

Pursuant to written agreements, Merrill Lynch and certain other affiliates provide the Portfolios with sub-accounting, recordkeeping, sub-transfer agency and other administrative services with respect to sub-accounts they service. For these services, affiliates receive an annual fee per shareholder account which will vary depending on share class. The Portfolios incurred the following fees in return for these services, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations:

 

     Merrill Lynch    Other Affiliates
     Period
October 1, 2008

to
December 31, 2008
   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 17,011    $ 4,489

Small Cap Growth Equity

     133,911      87,107

Small Cap Value Equity

     1,932      11,157

PNCGIS and the Advisor act as co-administrators for the Portfolios. For these services, the co-administrators receive a combined administration fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily net assets of each Portfolio. The combined administration fee is based on a percentage of the average daily net assets at the following annual rates: 0.075% of the first $500 million, 0.065% of the next $500 million and 0.055% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, each of the share classes is charged an administration fee based on the following percentages of average daily net assets of each respective class: 0.025% of the first $500 million of each Portfolio, 0.015% of the next $500 million and 0.005% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, PNCGIS and the Advisor may have, at their discretion, voluntarily waived all or any portion of their administration fees for a Portfolio or a share class.

The Portfolios have received an exemptive order from the Securities and Exchange Commission permitting them to lend portfolio securities to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith or its affiliates. Pursuant to that order, the Portfolios have retained BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (“BIM”), an affiliate of the Advisor, as the securities lending agent for a fee based on a share of the returns on investment of cash collateral. BIM may, on behalf of the Portfolios, invest cash collateral received by the Portfolios for such loans, among other things, in a private investment company managed by the Advisor or in registered money market funds advised by the Advisor or its affiliates. The share of income earned by the Portfolios on such investments is shown as securities lending – affiliated on the Statements of Operations. The securities lending agent fees received by BIM were as follows:

 

     Securities lending
agent fees for the
six months ended
March 31, 2009

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 6,946

Small Cap Growth Equity

     240,728

Small Cap Value Equity

     2,491

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, has entered into a separate Distribution Agreement and Distribution Plan with BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BIL”), an affiliate of BlackRock. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, the Portfolios pay BIL ongoing service and distribution fees. The fees are accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates based upon the average daily net assets of the shares of each Portfolio as follows:

 

     Service
Fee
    Distribution
Fee
 

BlackRock

   0.25 %   —    

Service

   0.25 %   —    

Investor A

   0.25 %   —    

Investor B

   0.25 %   0.75 %

Investor C

   0.25 %   0.75 %

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the Portfolios paid to affiliates the following fees in return for distribution and sales support services:

 

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 25,324

Small Cap Growth Equity

     80,886

Small Cap Value Equity

     13,718

The Advisor maintains a call center, which is responsible for providing certain shareholder services to the Portfolios, such as responding to shareholder inquiries and processing transactions based upon instructions from shareholders with respect to the subscription and redemption of Portfolio shares. During the six months ended March 31, 2009, each Portfolio reimbursed the Advisor the following amounts for costs incurred in running the call center, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

     Share Classes

Call Center

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 10

Institutional

   $ 681    $ 12,727      162

Service

     187      490      38

Investor A

     4,654      14,176      917

Investor B

     699      606      —  

Investor C

     2,037      2,588      167
                    

Total

   $ 8,258    $ 30,587    $ 1,294
                    

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the following charts show the various types of class specific expenses borne directly by each class of each Portfolio and any associated waivers or reimbursements of those expenses.

 

     Share Classes

Administration Fees

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 136

Institutional

   $ 3,391    $ 64,789      1,584

Service

     132      3,663      125

Investor A

     2,024      19,379      1,399

Investor B

     470      438      143

Investor C

     2,195      2,236      187
                    

Total

   $ 8,212    $ 90,505    $ 3,574
                    

 

32

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

     Share Classes

Administration Fees Waived

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 136

Institutional

   $ 3,391      —        1,038

Service

     132    $ 2,427      125

Investor A

     2,021      1,046      1,068

Investor B

     470      413      143

Investor C

     2,195      2,061      185
                    

Total

   $ 8,209    $ 5,947    $ 2,695
                    
     Share Classes

Service and Distribution Fees

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 1,316

Service

   $ 1,312    $ 36,630      1,247

Investor A

     20,237      191,596      13,908

Investor B

     18,859      17,501      5,593

Investor C

     87,382      89,406      7,449
                    

Total

   $ 127,790    $ 335,133    $ 29,513
                    
     Share Classes

Transfer Agent Fees

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 91

Institutional

   $ 21,356    $ 463,255      12,035

Service

     1,621      37,648      1,928

Investor A

     47,844      296,920      20,299

Investor B

     9,698      11,719      3,912

Investor C

     48,444      56,759      3,629
                    

Total

   $ 128,963    $ 866,301    $ 41,894
                    
     Share Classes

Transfer Agent Fees Waived

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 10

Institutional

   $ 680      —        113

Service

     182    $ 288      38

Investor A

     4,654      571      691

Investor B

     699      580      —  

Investor C

     2,037      2,265      164
                    

Total

   $ 8,252    $ 3,704    $ 1,016
                    
     Share Classes

Transfer Agent Fees Reimbursed

   Small Cap
Core Equity
   Small Cap
Growth Equity
   Small Cap
Value Equity

BlackRock

     —        —      $ 81

Institutional

   $ 18,482      —        6,842

Service

     1,002    $ 7,286      1,095

Investor A

     23,969      76      1,798

Investor B

     4,639      2,008      1,938

Investor C

     25,419      7,682      1,011
                    

Total

   $ 73,511    $ 17,052    $ 12,765
                    

If within two years following a waiver or reimbursement, the operating expenses of a share class that previously received a waiver or reimbursement from the Advisor are less than the expense limit for that share class, the Advisor is entitled to be reimbursed by such share class up to the amount of fees waived or expenses reimbursed under the agreement if: (1) the Portfolio has more than $50 million in assets, (2) the Advisor or an affiliate continues to serve as the Portfolio’s investment advisor or administrator and (3) the Board has approved in advance the payments to the Advisor at the previous quarterly meeting.

At March 31, 2009, the amounts subject to possible future reimbursement under the expense limitation agreement are as follows:

 

     Expiring January 31,
     2010    2011    2012

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 54,375    $ 176,353    $ 36,806

Small Cap Growth Equity

     16,894      10,923      8,868

Small Cap Value Equity

     13,841      61,262      23,957

The following waivers previously recorded by the Portfolios, which were subject to recoupment by the Advisor, expired on January 31, 2009:

 

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 45,835

Small Cap Growth Equity

     28,413

Small Cap Value Equity

     15,969

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates earned underwriting discounts, direct commissions and dealer concessions on sales of each Portfolio’s Investor A Shares as follows:

 

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 3,303

Small Cap Growth Equity

     7,955

Small Cap Value Equity

     1,834

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates received the following contingent deferred sales charges relating to transactions in Investor A, B and C Shares:

 

     Investor A    Investor B    Investor C

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 454    $ 6,259    $ 4,003

Small Cap Growth Equity

     4,108      3,278      4,903

Small Cap Value Equity

     —        1,561      118

The Portfolios may earn income on positive cash balances in demand deposit accounts that are maintained by PNCGIS on behalf of the Portfolios. The income earned for the six months ended March 31, 2009 was as follows which is included in interest and dividends - affiliated on the Statements of Operations:

 

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 216

Small Cap Growth Equity

     600

Small Cap Value Equity

     35

The Portfolios may also receive earnings credits related to cash balances with PNCGIS which are shown on the Statements of Operations as fees paid indirectly.

Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or directors of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. The Portfolios reimburse the Advisor for compensation paid to the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    33


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

3. Investments:

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities, were as follows:

 

     Purchases    Sales

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ 50,219,266    $ 52,601,473

Small Cap Growth Equity

     480,346,236      305,294,012

Small Cap Value Equity

     37,214,159      40,865,016

4. Short-Term Borrowings:

The Portfolios, along with certain other funds managed by the Advisor and its affiliates, are a party to a $500 million credit agreement with a group of lenders, which expired November 2008 and was renewed until November 2009. The Portfolios may borrow under the credit agreement to fund shareholder redemptions and for other lawful purposes other than for leverage. Each Portfolio may borrow up to the maximum amount allowable under the Portfolio’s current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, subject to various other legal, regulatory or contractual limits. The Portfolios paid their pro rata share of a 0.02% upfront fee on the aggregate commitment amount based on their net assets as of October 31, 2008. The Portfolios pay a commitment fee of 0.08% per annum based on each Portfolio’s pro rata share of the unused portion of the credit agreement, which is included in miscellaneous on the Statements of Operations. Amounts borrowed under the credit agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, the higher of the (a) federal funds effective rate and (b) reserve adjusted one month LIBOR, plus, in each case, the higher of (i) 1.50% and (ii) 50% of the CDX index (as defined in the credit agreement) in effect from time to time. The Portfolios did not borrow under the credit agreement during the six months ended March 31, 2009.

5. Capital Loss Carryforward:

As of September 30, 2008, capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized capital gains through the indicated expiration dates:

 

     Expiring September 30,
     2010    2011    2016

Small Cap Core Equity

   $ —      $ —      $ 461,113

Small Cap Growth Equity

     337,418,276      104,987,092      —  

6. Market and Credit Risk:

In the normal course of business, the Portfolios invest in securities and enter into transactions where risks exist due to fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of the issuer of a security to meet all its obligations (credit risk). The value of securities held by the Portfolios may decline in response to certain events, including those directly involving the issuers whose securities are owned by the Portfolios; conditions affecting the general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or economic instability; and currency and interest rate and price fluctuations. Similar to credit risk, the Portfolios may be exposed to counterparty risk, or the risk that an entity with which the Portfolios have unsettled or open transactions may default. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Portfolios to credit and counterparty risks, consist principally of investments and cash due from counterparties. The extent of the Portfolios’ exposure to credit and counterparty risks with respect to these financial assets is approximated by their value recorded in the Portfolios’ Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

7. Capital Shares Transactions:

Transactions in shares for each period were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Small Cap Core Equity

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   790,298     $ 8,986,181     1,364,139     $ 24,046,536  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends

   —         —       144,344       2,634,282  
                            

Total issued

   790,298       8,986,181     1,508,483       26,680,818  

Shares redeemed

   (790,282 )     (8,842,301 )   (658,819 )     (11,358,761 )
                            

Net increase

   16     $ 143,880     849,664     $ 15,322,057  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   1,850     $ 24,490     53,494     $ 929,891  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends

   —         —       7,809       141,645  
                            

Total issued

   1,850       24,490     61,303       1,071,536  

Shares redeemed

   (188,017 )     (1,945,142 )   (76,420 )     (1,366,692 )
                            

Net decrease

   (186,167 )   $ (1,920,652 )   (15,117 )   $ (295,156 )
                            

 

34

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Small Cap Core Equity (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   362,208     $ 4,043,971     741,357     $ 12,871,654  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends

   —         —       114,910       2,066,087  
                            

Total issued

   362,208       4,043,971     856,267       14,937,741  

Shares redeemed

   (422,889 )     (4,689,694 )   (728,662 )     (12,426,165 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (60,681 )   $ (645,723 )   127,605     $ 2,511,576  
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   12,094     $ 133,171     52,890     $ 887,951  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends

   —         —       32,803       575,046  
                            

Total issued

   12,094       133,171     85,693       1,462,997  

Shares redeemed

   (67,536 )     (711,563 )   (149,045 )     (2,471,884 )
                            

Net decrease

   (55,442 )   $ (578,392 )   (63,352 )   $ (1,008,887 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   220,535     $ 2,355,718     531,601     $ 9,067,924  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends

   —         —       132,853       2,323,753  
                            

Total issued

   220,535       2,355,718     664,454       11,391,677  

Shares redeemed

   (404,389 )     (4,198,697 )   (540,356 )     (8,855,590 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (183,854 )   $ (1,842,979 )   124,098     $ 2,536,087  
                            

Small Cap Growth Equity

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   13,702,131     $ 193,681,788     26,210,280     $ 592,523,628  

Shares redeemed

   (6,138,264 )     (82,800,678 )   (16,563,602 )     (387,167,186 )
                            

Net increase

   7,563,867     $ 110,881,110     9,646,678     $ 205,356,442  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   382,064     $ 5,223,588     759,940     $ 16,295,030  

Shares redeemed

   (237,906 )     (3,085,819 )   (252,607 )     (5,415,418 )
                            

Net increase

   144,158     $ 2,137,769     507,333     $ 10,879,612  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   4,730,025     $ 60,836,195     6,747,731     $ 141,983,947  

Shares redeemed

   (3,266,830 )     (41,512,678 )   (4,126,237 )     (87,664,687 )
                            

Net increase

   1,463,195     $ 19,323,517     2,621,494     $ 54,319,260  
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    35


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Small Cap Growth Equity (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   27,624     $ 324,335     94,630     $ 1,807,045  

Shares redeemed

   (106,008 )     (1,179,052 )   (271,481 )     (4,962,057 )
                            

Net decrease

   (78,384 )   $ (854,717 )   (176,851 )   $ (3,155,012 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   413,143     $ 4,863,186     628,994     $ 11,776,014  

Shares redeemed

   (276,023 )     (3,100,883 )   (271,495 )     (5,016,673 )
                            

Net increase

   137,120     $ 1,762,303     357,499     $ 6,759,341  
                            

Small Cap Value Equity

                        

BlackRock

        

Shares sold

   228     $ 2,175     170     $ 1,553  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   2,088       11,359     56,693       560,132  
                            

Total issued

   2,316       13,534     56,863       561,685  

Shares redeemed

   (361,911 )     (2,089,429 )   (106,923 )     (1,262,762 )
                            

Net decrease

   (359,595 )   $ (2,075,895 )   (50,060 )   $ (701,077 )
                            

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   149,385     $ 856,236     700,118     $ 6,837,512  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,998       10,869     94,195       930,649  
                            

Total issued

   151,383       867,105     794,313       7,768,161  

Shares redeemed

   (265,164 )     (1,582,434 )   (862,808 )     (8,137,224 )
                            

Net decrease

   (113,781 )   $ (715,329 )   (68,495 )   $ (369,063 )
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   5,048     $ 26,024     28,830     $ 270,508  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   486       2,567     17,734       170,431  
                            

Total issued

   5,534       28,591     46,564       440,939  

Shares redeemed

   (27,675 )     (154,403 )   (40,279 )     (353,709 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (22,141 )   $ (125,812 )   6,285     $ 87,230  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   159,128     $ 874,202     201,643     $ 1,757,564  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   9,940       51,887     378,470       3,599,258  
                            

Total issued

   169,068       926,089     580,113       5,356,822  

Shares redeemed

   (251,747 )     (1,376,297 )   (762,411 )     (7,077,882 )
                            

Net decrease

   (82,679 )   $ (450,208 )   (182,298 )   $ (1,721,060 )
                            

 

36

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Small Cap Value Equity (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   8,346     $ 38,086     9,284     $ 69,936  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,112       4,659     89,449       687,867  
                            

Total issued

   9,458       42,745     98,733       757,803  

Shares redeemed

   (102,747 )     (458,453 )   (264,918 )     (1,915,386 )
                            

Net decrease

   (93,289 )   $ (415,708 )   (166,185 )   $ (1,157,583 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   81,718     $ 349,149     10,417     $ 76,592  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,425       5,940     75,079       575,118  
                            

Total issued

   83,143       355,089     85,496       651,710  

Shares redeemed

   (101,400 )     (450,581 )   (115,083 )     (837,345 )
                            

Net decrease

   (18,257 )   $ (95,492 )   (29,587 )   $ (185,635 )
                            

There is a 2% redemption fee on shares of certain Portfolios redeemed or exchanged which have been held for 30 days or less. The redemption fees are collected and retained by the Portfolio for the benefit of the remaining shareholders. The redemption fees are recorded as a credit to paid-in capital.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    37


Officers and Trustees

Ronald W. Forbes, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

Rodney D. Johnson, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

David O. Beim, Trustee

Dr. Matina Horner, Trustee

Herbert I. London, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Cynthia A. Montgomery, Trustee

Joseph P. Platt, Jr., Trustee

Robert C. Robb, Jr., Trustee

Toby Rosenblatt, Trustee

Kenneth L. Urish, Chairman of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Frederick W. Winter, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Richard S. Davis, Trustee

Henry Gabbay, Trustee

Donald C. Burke, Fund President and Chief Executive Officer

Anne F. Ackerley, Vice President

Neal J. Andrews, Chief Financial Officer

Jay M. Fife, Treasurer

Brian P. Kindelan, Chief Compliance Officer of the Fund

Howard Surloff, Secretary

Investment Advisor and Co-Administrator

BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Wilmington, DE 19809

Custodian

PFPC Trust Company

Philadelphia, PA 19153

Co-Administrator and Transfer Agent

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc.

Wilmington, DE 19809

Distributor

BlackRock Investments, LLC

New York, NY 10022

Legal Counsel

Sidley Austin LLP

New York, NY 10019

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Address of the Portfolios

100 Bellevue Parkway

Wilmington, DE 19809

 

38

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Additional Information

BlackRock Privacy Principles

BlackRock is committed to maintaining the privacy of its current and former fund investors and individual clients (collectively, “Clients”) and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information BlackRock collects, how we protect that information and why in certain cases we share such information with select parties.

If you are located in a jurisdiction where specific laws, rules or regulations require BlackRock to provide you with additional or different privacy-related rights beyond what is set forth below, then BlackRock will comply with those specific laws, rules or regulations.

BlackRock obtains or verifies personal non-public information from and about you from different sources, including the following: (i) information we receive from you or, if applicable, your financial intermediary, on applications, forms or other documents; (ii) information about your transactions with us, our affiliates, or others; (iii) information we receive from a consumer reporting agency; and (iv) from visits to our websites.

BlackRock does not sell or disclose to non-affiliated third parties any non-public personal information about its Clients, except as permitted by law or as is necessary to respond to regulatory requests or to service Client accounts. These non-affiliated third parties are required to protect the confidentiality and security of this information and to use it only for its intended purpose.

We may share information with our affiliates to service your account or to provide you with information about other BlackRock products or services that may be of interest to you. In addition, BlackRock restricts access to non-public personal information about its Clients to those BlackRock employees with a legitimate business need for the information. BlackRock maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that are designed to protect the non-public personal information of its Clients, including procedures relating to the proper storage and disposal of such information.

Availability of Additional Information

Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available on the Fund’s website or shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications of quarterly statements, annual and semi-annual reports and prospectuses by enrolling in the Fund’s electronic delivery program.

To enroll:

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts with Investment Advisors, Banks or Brokerages:

Please contact your financial advisor. Please note that not all investment advisors, banks or brokerages may offer this service.

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts Directly With BlackRock

 

1) Access the BlackRock website at

http://www.blackrock.com/edelivery

 

2) Click on the applicable link and follow the steps to sign up

 

3) Log into your account

Householding

The Fund will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including prospectuses, annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and it is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your shareholder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please contact the Fund at (800) 441-7762.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    39


Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available (1) without charge, upon request by calling (800) 441-7762; (2) at www.blackrock.com; and (3) on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Proxy Voting Record

Information about how the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolios during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request and without charge (1) at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 441-7762 (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at http:// www.sec.gov and may also 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 (800) SEC-0330. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling (800) 441-7762.

Shareholder Privileges

Account Information

Call us at (800) 441-7762 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST Monday through Friday to get information about your account balances, recent transactions and share prices. You can also reach us on the Web at www.blackrock.com/funds.

Automatic Investment Plans

Investor Class shareholders who want to invest regularly can arrange to have $50 or more automatically deducted from their checking or savings account and invested in any of the BlackRock portfolios.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan

Investor Class shareholders can establish a systematic withdrawal plan and receive periodic payments of $50 or more from their BlackRock portfolios, as long as their account is at least $10,000.

Retirement Plans

Shareholders may make investments in conjunction with Traditional, Rollover, Roth, Coverdell, Simple IRA’s, SEP IRA’s and 403(b) Plans.

 

40

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A World-Class Mutual Fund Family

BlackRock offers a diverse lineup of open-end mutual funds crossing all investment styles and managed by experts in equity, fixed income and tax-exempt investing.

 

Equity Funds

   

BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio

 

BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Asset Allocation Portfolio†

 

BlackRock Global SmallCap Fund

 

BlackRock Mid Cap Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Aurora Portfolio

 

BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

 

BlackRock Natural Resources Trust

BlackRock Balanced Capital Fund†

 

BlackRock Healthcare Fund

 

BlackRock Pacific Fund

BlackRock Basic Value Fund

 

BlackRock Index Equity Portfolio*

 

BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio

 

BlackRock International Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

BlackRock International Diversification Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Equity Dividend Fund

 

BlackRock International Index Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Fund II

BlackRock EuroFund

 

BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio

 

BlackRock Small Cap Index Fund

BlackRock Focus Growth Fund

 

BlackRock International Value Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

BlackRock Focus Value Fund

 

BlackRock Large Cap Core Fund

 

BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

BlackRock Fundamental Growth Fund

 

BlackRock Large Cap Core Plus Fund

 

BlackRock S&P 500 Index Fund

BlackRock Global Allocation Fund†

 

BlackRock Large Cap Growth Fund

 

BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Global Dynamic Equity Fund

 

BlackRock Large Cap Value Fund

 

BlackRock Utilities and Telecommunications Fund

BlackRock Global Emerging Markets Fund

 

BlackRock Latin America Fund

 

BlackRock Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Global Financial Services Fund

 

BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

BlackRock Global Growth Fund

   

Fixed Income Funds

   

BlackRock Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Income Builder Portfolio

 

BlackRock Short-Term Bond Fund

BlackRock Emerging Market Debt Portfolio

 

BlackRock Inflation Protected Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Strategic Income Portfolio

BlackRock Enhanced Income Portfolio

 

BlackRock Intermediate Government Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Total Return Fund

BlackRock GNMA Portfolio

 

BlackRock International Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Total Return Portfolio II

BlackRock Government Income Portfolio

 

BlackRock Long Duration Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock World Income Fund

BlackRock High Income Fund

 

BlackRock Low Duration Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock High Yield Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Managed Income Portfolio

 

BlackRock Income Portfolio

   

Municipal Bond Funds

   

BlackRock AMT-Free Municipal Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Kentucky Municipal Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock New York Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock California Municipal Bond Fund

 

BlackRock Municipal Insured Fund

 

BlackRock Ohio Municipal Bond Portfolio

BlackRock Delaware Municipal Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock National Municipal Fund

 

BlackRock Pennsylvania Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock High Yield Municipal Fund

 

BlackRock New Jersey Municipal Bond Fund

 

BlackRock Short-Term Municipal Fund

BlackRock Intermediate Municipal Fund

   

Target Risk & Target Date Funds

   

BlackRock Prepared Portfolios

 

BlackRock Lifecycle Prepared Portfolios

 

Conservative Prepared Portfolio

            Prepared Portfolio 2010             Prepared Portfolio 2030

Moderate Prepared Portfolio

            Prepared Portfolio 2015             Prepared Portfolio 2035

Growth Prepared Portfolio

            Prepared Portfolio 2020             Prepared Portfolio 2040

Aggressive Growth Prepared Portfolio

            Prepared Portfolio 2025             Prepared Portfolio 2045
              Prepared Portfolio 2050

 

* See the prospectus for information on specific limitations on investments in the fund.
Mixed asset fund.

BlackRock mutual funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. You should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the funds under consideration carefully before investing. Each fund’s prospectus contains this and other information and is available at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 882-0052 or from your financial advisor. The prospectus should be read carefully before investing.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    41


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LOGO

This report is transmitted to shareholders only. It is not authorized for use as an offer of sale or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Portfolios unless accompanied or preceded by the Portfolios’ current prospectus. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. Investment returns and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change.

LOGO

EQUITY3-3/09-SAR


EQUITIES    FIXED INCOME    REAL ESTATE    LIQUIDITY    ALTERNATIVES    BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS

 

BlackRock FundsSM    LOGO
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT  |  MARCH 31, 2009 (UNAUDITED)   

BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

NOT FDIC INSURED

MAY LOSE VALUE

NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

 

     Page

A Letter to Shareholders

   3

Semi-Annual Report:

  

Portfolio Summaries

   4

About Portfolio Performance

   10

Disclosure of Expenses

   11

Financial Statements:

  

Schedules of Investments

   12

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

   19

Statements of Operations

   21

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

   22

Financial Highlights

   23

Notes to Financial Statements

   32

Officers and Trustees

   40

Additional Information

   41

Mutual Fund Family

   43

 

2

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A Letter to Shareholders

The past 12 months have been a period investors would like to forget, but instead will vividly remember, as the global financial crisis erupted into the worst recession in decades. Daily headlines recounted the downfalls of storied financial firms, volatile swings in the world’s financial markets and monumental government actions, including the recent passage of the nearly $800 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The economic data generally deteriorated throughout the reporting period. US gross domestic product (“GDP”) contracted at an annual rate of 6.3% in the fourth quarter of 2008, and economic activity appears on pace to be negative in the first quarter of 2009 as well. The Federal Reserve Board (the “Fed”) took forceful action to revive the global economy and ailing financial system. In addition to slashing the federal funds target rate from 3.0% to a record low range of 0% to 0.25%, the central bank provided enormous cash infusions and radically expanded its balance sheet through a range of lending and acquisition programs.

Against this backdrop, US equities contended with high levels of volatility and posted steep losses, notwithstanding a powerful rally in the final month of the reporting period. International markets also experienced sharp downturns, with some regions declining as much or more than the United States. Risk aversion remained the dominant theme in fixed income markets, as investors sought out the haven of Treasury issues at the expense of virtually all other asset classes. High yield issues, in particular, faced unprecedented challenges and posted severe underperformance; that said, the sector pared its losses in the first quarter of 2009, as both liquidity and investor sentiment toward lower-quality debt improved. At the same time, the start of the new year brought somewhat of a return to normalcy for the tax-exempt market, which registered one of its worst years on record in 2008.

In all, investors continued to gravitate toward relative safety, as evidenced in the six- and 12-month returns of the major benchmark indexes:

 

Total Returns as of March 31, 2009

   6-month     12-month  

US equities (S&P 500 Index)

   (30.54 )%   (38.09 )%

Small cap US equities (Russell 2000 Index)

   (37.17 )   (37.50 )

International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index)

   (31.11 )   (46.50 )

US Treasury securities (Merrill Lynch 10-Year US Treasury Index)

   11.88     10.46  

Taxable fixed income (Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index)

   4.70     3.13  

Tax-exempt fixed income (Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index)

   5.00     2.27  

High yield bonds (Barclays Capital US Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index)

   (12.65 )   (18.56 )

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.

Through periods of market turbulence, as ever, BlackRock’s full resources are dedicated to the management of our clients’ assets. We thank you for entrusting BlackRock with your investments and look forward to continuing to serve you in the months and years ahead.

 

Sincerely,
LOGO

Rob Kapito

President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Seeking additional investment insights?

Visit BlackRock’s award-winning Shareholder® magazine, now available exclusively online at www.blackrock.com/shareholdermagazine. In this issue:

 

   

Discover why portfolio diversification still matters — even as nearly every financial asset class lost value over the past year.

 

   

Learn how adding commodities to a more traditional mix of assets can help you to balance risks and access new potential rewards.

 

   

Assuage your fears about higher taxes and discover how municipal bonds may offer some relief.

 

   

Find out if there’s still value to be found in dividend-paying stocks.

THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT

 

              3


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio underperformed the benchmark Russell Midcap Growth Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Weak stock selection in the energy and materials sectors was the primary detractor from overall returns during the period. Within energy, many exploration and production companies experienced significant declines as oil fell from more than $100/barrel at the beginning of the period to $50/barrel at period-end. Among these were holdings Massey Energy, Chesapeake Energy and Plains Exploration and Production. Services companies were also hit hard, as Superior Energy Services and National Oilwell Varco both sank more than 50%. Within the materials sector, chemical company Celanese plummeted 50% on weaker demand. Additionally, metals provider Century Aluminum fell more than 90% on concerns of possible bankruptcy after a collapse in aluminum prices on weaker global demand.

 

   

On the positive side, stock selection in the industrials and information technology (IT) sectors aided relative returns during the six months. Within industrials, electronic motor manufacturer AMETEK continued to execute with its diverse business in a difficult environment. Oil & gas database provider IHS also relatively outperformed within the industrials sector. In IT, semiconductor company Broadcom was up 7% on increased demand for its products surrounding 3G technology. Mortgage processing company Lender Processing Services also continued to experience growing volumes, as the company’s stock was flat for the period. Elsewhere in the Portfolio, education provider Apollo Group jumped 16% on increasing applications for secondary education.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

There were no major changes made to the Portfolio during the period. Within the consumer discretionary sector, we incrementally added Burger King Holdings and Bed Bath & Beyond, while eliminating holdings in Apollo Group, Urban Outfitters and Orient-Express Hotels.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio’s largest overweight relative to the benchmark was in the healthcare sector, and its most prominent underweight was in consumer staples.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

AMETEK, Inc.

   3 %

MEDNAX, Inc.

   3  

GameStop Corp. - Class A

   3  

Amdocs Ltd.

   2  

Broadcom Corp. - Class A

   2  

Lender Processing Services, Inc.

   2  

PMC-Sierra, Inc.

   2  

Quanta Services, Inc.

   2  

MSCI, Inc. - Class A

   2  

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A

   2  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Information Technology

   25 %

Health Care

   18  

Consumer Discretionary

   17  

Industrials

   16  

Energy

   9  

Financials

   5  

Materials

   5  

Consumer Staples

   2  

Telecommunication Services

   2  

Exchange-Traded Funds

   1  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

4

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


   Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

  

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities issued by US mid-capitalization growth companies which the portfolio management team believes have above-average earnings growth potential.

 

3 An index that consists of the bottom 800 securities of the Russell 1000 Index with greater-than-average growth orientation as ranked by total market capitalization. Securities in this index generally have higher price-to-book and price-to-earnings ratios, lower dividend yields and higher forecasted growth values.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

     6-Month
Total Returns
    Average Annual Total Returns4  
     1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     w/o sales
charge
    w/ sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/ sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/ sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (30.59 )%   (40.65 )%   N/A     (4.42 )%   N/A     (0.34 )%   N/A  

Service

   (30.60 )   (40.64 )   N/A     (4.67 )   N/A     (0.61 )   N/A  

Investor A

   (30.65 )   (40.80 )   (43.91 )%   (4.85 )   (5.87 )%   (0.81 )   (1.34 )%

Investor B

   (30.96 )   (41.31 )   (43.95 )   (5.56 )   (5.94 )   (1.39 )   (1.39 )

Investor C

   (30.96 )   (41.31 )   (41.90 )   (5.56 )   (5.56 )   (1.54 )   (1.54 )

R

   (30.65 )   (40.86 )   N/A     (4.89 )   N/A     (0.85 )   N/A  

Russell Midcap Growth Index

   (29.81 )   (39.58 )   N/A     (3.91 )   N/A     (0.86 )   N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 10 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 694.10    $ 5.11    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.89    $ 6.11

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 694.00    $ 6.21    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.58    $ 7.42

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 693.50    $ 6.67    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.02    $ 7.98

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 690.40    $ 9.82    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.24    $ 11.76

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 690.40    $ 9.82    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.24    $ 11.76

R

   $ 1,000.00    $ 693.50    $ 6.76    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.92    $ 8.08

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.21% for Institutional, 1.47% for Service, 1.58% for Investor A, 2.33% for Investor B, 2.33% for Investor C and 1.60% for R), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 11 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    5


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009   Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

 

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio significantly outperformed the benchmark Russell Midcap Value Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Portfolio performance benefited from strong stock selection in financials, primarily among capital markets, insurance and diversified financial services names. Notable contributors included insurance companies W.R. Berkley and HCC Insurance Holdings, as well as CME Group, operator of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Additionally, an underweight in real estate investment trusts (REITs), which sold off sharply during the period, helped to minimize losses in the sector and boosted relative returns.

 

   

Allocation and positive stock selection, particularly among restaurants and specialty retailers, contributed to favorable performance comparisons in the consumer discretionary sector. Stock selection also benefited relative performance in the energy sector, where the Portfolio’s exploration & production holdings outperformed their benchmark counterparts during the six months.

 

   

Although an overweight in information technology (IT) added value to Portfolio performance, the negative impact of stock selection overshadowed these gains. Key areas of weakness included the computers & peripherals, IT services and communications equipment sub-sectors.

 

   

The Portfolio modestly underperformed in the materials and healthcare sectors, due primarily to poor stock selection within the containers & packaging and healthcare equipment & supplies sub-industries, respectively.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

Although market volatility reached unprecedented levels during the six-month period, the Portfolio’s sector exposure remained fairly stable. Allocations to the consumer staples and utilities sectors increased modestly during the period, while consumer discretionary and industrials weightings declined. Within technology, we added to IT services and internet-related holdings. We also reduced exposure to machinery-related names in the industrials sector and chemicals producers in materials.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio was overweight relative to the benchmark in IT, particularly within the electronic equipment & services and internet software & services sub-sectors, and industrials, most notably among commercial services names. Key underweights included financials, primarily REITs, thrifts & mortgage finance and commercial banks; utilities, particularly multi-utilities; and consumer discretionary, notably household durables and multiline retailers.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

W.R. Berkley Corp.

   2 %

The Travelers Cos., Inc

   2  

HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc.

   2  

PG&E Corp.

   2  

AON Corp.

   2  

AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd.

   2  

The J.M. Smucker Co.

   2  

Safeway, Inc.

   2  

Wisconsin Energy Corp.

   2  

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

   1  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Financials

   25 %

Utilities

   13  

Information Technology

   12  

Consumer Discretionary

   12  

Consumer Staples

   9  

Industrials

   9  

Materials

   7  

Health Care

   7  

Energy

   6  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

6

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities issued by US mid-capitalization value companies.

 

3 An index that consists of the bottom 800 securities of the Russell 1000 Index with less-than-average growth orientation as ranked by total market capitalization. Securities in this index generally have low price-to-book and price-to-earnings ratios, higher dividend yields and lower forecasted growth values.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns4  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month Total
Returns
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (33.54 )%   (40.00 )%   N/A     (2.61 )%   N/A     4.28 %   N/A  

Service

   (33.64 )   (40.13 )   N/A     (2.87 )   N/A     3.99     N/A  

Investor A

   (33.54 )   (40.11 )   (43.23 )%   (2.86 )   (3.90 )%   3.99     3.43 %

Investor B

   (33.84 )   (40.56 )   (43.22 )   (3.58 )   (3.82 )   3.38     3.38  

Investor C

   (33.84 )   (40.58 )   (41.17 )   (3.59 )   (3.59 )   3.25     3.25  

Russell Midcap Value Index

   (37.87 )   (42.51 )   N/A     (3.81 )   N/A     3.13     N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 10 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 664.60    $ 3.90    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,020.25    $ 4.75

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 663.60    $ 5.18    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.69    $ 6.31

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 664.60    $ 5.19    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.69    $ 6.31

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 661.60    $ 8.29    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.90    $ 10.10

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 661.60    $ 8.29    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.90    $ 10.10

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (0.94% for Institutional, 1.25% for Service, 1.25% for Investor A, 2.00% for Investor B and 2.00% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 11 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    7


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio underperformed the benchmark Russell 2500 Growth Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Poor stock selection within the healthcare and consumer discretionary sectors was the most significant detractor from relative returns during the six months. Within the healthcare sector, the healthcare equipment and supplies industry accounted for the majority of the Portfolio’s underperformance. Wright Medical Group, a manufacturer of hip and joint replacements, plummeted more than 50% on worries of decreased demand for its products. Additionally, ZOLL Medical dropped more than 50% on declining revenues for its defibrillator products. Within consumer discretionary, a position in Ticketmaster Entertainment was the most significant detractor in the group. The company’s stock sunk more than 65% after a potential acquisition with a competitor was met with resistance from federal regulators. Portfolio holding Orient-Express Hotels also severely declined after repeatedly refusing to participate in discussions with potential acquirers.

 

   

Positive relative contributors to performance included an overweight in information technology (IT) and good stock selection in industrials. Within IT, telecommunications equipment provider Neutral Tandem was up more than 30% on strong market share gains and its high earnings visibility business model, and call center company ExlService Holdings was flat for the period after posting a rally in the first quarter of 2009. Within industrials, outsourcing company Sykes Enterprises was a relative outperformer in a sector that was down more than 40% for the period. The outsourcing company continued to benefit from its broad, global economic footprint. Elsewhere in the Portfolio, newer holding Cogent Communications Group was up 5% on strength in demand for its fingerprint identification processors.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

During the period, we slightly increased the Portfolio’s weighting in the IT and healthcare sectors, initiating positions in SRA International, Cogent Communications Group and MedAssets, among others. We reduced its weighting in the consumer discretionary and energy sectors, eliminating names Smith & Wesson Holding, Dolan Media and Massey Energy.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio’s most significant overweight relative to the benchmark was in the IT sector, and its largest underweight was in consumer discretionary.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

SkillSoft Plc - ADR

   4 %

Sykes Enterprises, Inc.

   3  

TiVo, Inc.

   3  

Magellan Health Services, Inc.

   2  

AMETEK, Inc.

   2  

Neutral Tandem, Inc.

   2  

IHS, Inc. - Class A

   2  

SonicWALL, Inc.

   2  

Blackboard, Inc.

   2  

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A

   2  

 

Sector Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Information Technology

   33 %

Health Care

   24  

Industrials

   17  

Consumer Discretionary

   10  

Financials

   5  

Energy

   4  

Materials

   4  

Consumer Staples

   3  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

8

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 Under normal market conditions, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of total assets in small-capitalization and mid-capitalization companies.

 

3 An index composed of the Russell 2500 companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns4  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (34.52 )%   (42.64 )%   N/A     (7.67 )%   N/A     1.51 %   N/A  

Investor A

   (34.62 )   (42.77 )   (45.78 )%   (7.92 )   (8.91 )%   1.22     0.68 %

Investor B

   (34.86 )   (43.19 )   (45.75 )   (8.62 )   (8.89 )   0.65     0.65  

Investor C

   (34.82 )   (43.15 )   (43.72 )   (8.62 )   (8.62 )   0.51     0.51  

R

   (34.71 )   (42.91 )   N/A     (8.17 )   N/A     0.92     N/A  

Russell 2500 Growth Index

   (32.09 )   (38.14 )   N/A     (4.46 )   N/A     0.24     N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 10 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A—Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 654.80    $ 4.54    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.45    $ 5.55

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 653.80    $ 5.57    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.18    $ 6.82

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 651.40    $ 8.65    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.40    $ 10.60

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 651.80    $ 8.65    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.40    $ 10.60

R

   $ 1,000.00    $ 652.90    $ 6.72    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.77    $ 8.23

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.10% for Institutional, 1.35% for Investor A, 2.10% Investor B, 2.10% for Investor C and 1.63% for R), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365. See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 11 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    9


About Portfolio Performance

 

   

Institutional Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge and are available only to eligible investors. These shares bear no ongoing distribution or service fees.

 

   

Service Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end load) of 5.25% and a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 4.50% declining to 0% after six years. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. These shares automatically convert to Investor A Shares after approximately eight years. (There is no initial sales charge for automatic share conversions.) All returns for periods greater than eight years reflect this conversion.

 

   

Investor C Shares are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within one year of purchase. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year.

 

   

R Shares are not subject to any initial sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.25% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. R Shares are available only to certain retirement and other similar plans.

Performance information reflects past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Refer to www.blackrock.com/funds to obtain performance data current to the most recent month-end. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. Each

Portfolio may charge a 2% redemption fee for sales or exchanges of shares within 30 days of purchase or exchange. Performance data does not reflect this potential fee. Figures shown in the performance tables on the previous pages assume reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, if any, at net asset value on the ex-dividend date. Investment return and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each class of shares will vary because of the different levels of service, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid to shareholders.

The performance information on the previous pages include information for each class of each Portfolio since the commencement of operations of such Portfolio, rather than the date such class was introduced. Performance information for each class introduced after the commencement of operations of a Portfolio is therefore based on the performance history of a predecessor class adjusted to reflect the class specific fees applicable to each class at the time of the launch of such share class. This information may be considered when assessing a Portfolio’s performance, but does not represent the actual performance of this share class.

Performance for the Mid-Cap Value Equity and Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolios for the periods prior to January 31, 2005 is based on performance of certain former State Street Research mutual funds that reorganized with the Portfolios on that date.

The performance information also reflects fee waivers and reimbursements that subsidize and reduce the total operating expenses of each Portfolio. The Portfolios’ returns would have been lower if there were no such waivers and reimbursements. BlackRock Advisors, LLC is under no obligation to waive or continue waiving its fees after February 1, 2010.

 

10

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Disclosure of Expenses

Shareholders of these Portfolios may incur the following charges: (a) expenses related to transactions, including sales charges and redemption fees; and (b) operating expenses, including advisory fees, service and distribution fees including 12b-1 fees, and other Portfolio expenses. The expense examples on the previous pages (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2008 and held through March 31, 2009) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Portfolio and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Expense Example tables provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number corresponding to their share class under the headings entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

The tables also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolios’ actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in these Portfolios and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in other funds’ shareholder reports.

The expenses shown in the table are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as sales charges, redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the hypothetical table is useful in comparing ongoing expenses only, and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    11


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 4.1%

     

BE Aerospace, Inc.(a)

   301,400    $ 2,613,138

Goodrich Corp.

   74,900      2,837,961

Precision Castparts Corp.

   22,100      1,323,790
         
        6,774,889
         

Biotechnology — 0.9%

     

Martek Biosciences Corp.(b)

   82,000      1,496,500
         

Capital Markets — 1.3%

     

Invesco Ltd.

   153,907      2,133,151
         

Chemicals — 3.7%

     

Agrium, Inc.(b)

   58,400      2,090,136

Airgas, Inc.

   39,600      1,338,876

Celanese Corp. - Series A

   203,700      2,723,469
         
        6,152,481
         

Commercial Banks — 0.7%

     

KeyCorp

   148,200      1,166,334
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.5%

     

Iron Mountain, Inc.(a)

   113,200      2,509,644
         

Communications Equipment — 0.9%

     

Harris Corp.

   49,781      1,440,662
         

Construction & Engineering — 2.2%

     

Quanta Services, Inc.(a)

   167,900      3,601,455
         

Containers & Packaging — 0.9%

     

Rock-Tenn Co. - Class A

   53,100      1,436,355
         

Diversified Financial Services — 3.1%

     

CME Group, Inc.

   6,400      1,576,896

MSCI, Inc. - Class A(a)

   211,100      3,569,701
         
        5,146,597
         

Electrical Equipment — 2.8%

     

AMETEK, Inc.

   149,900      4,687,373
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.4%

     

Amphenol Corp. - Class A

   84,100      2,396,009
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 3.5%

     

Noble Corp.

   101,000      2,433,090

Superior Energy Services, Inc.(a)

   108,800      1,402,432

Weatherford International Ltd.(a)

   173,900      1,925,073
         
        5,760,595
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 3.2%

     

Hologic, Inc.(a)

   187,900      2,459,611

ResMed, Inc.(a)

   79,500      2,809,530
         
        5,269,141
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 9.5%

     

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

   64,500      2,106,570

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings(a)

   35,000      2,047,150

Lincare Holdings, Inc.(a)

   87,700      1,911,860

Magellan Health Services, Inc.(a)

   74,000      2,696,560

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.(a)

   70,900      2,931,006

MEDNAX, Inc.(a)

   142,800      4,208,316
         
        15,901,462
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 7.3%

     

Burger King Holdings, Inc.

   125,400      2,877,930

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

   99,600      3,412,296

Panera Bread Co. - Class A(a)(b)

   41,200      2,303,080

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A(a)

   293,000      3,548,230
         
        12,141,536
         

Household Durables — 1.0%

     

NVR, Inc.(a)

   3,900      1,668,225
         

Household Products — 1.4%

     

Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

   46,100      2,407,803
         

IT Services — 6.3%

     

Genpact Ltd.(a)

   346,000      3,065,560

Lender Processing Services, Inc.

   125,900      3,853,799

SAIC, Inc.(a)

   95,600      1,784,852

TeleTech Holdings, Inc.(a)

   157,600      1,716,264
         
        10,420,475
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 1.3%

     

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(a)

   61,900      2,207,973
         

Machinery — 3.5%

     

IDEX Corp.

   126,700      2,770,929

Joy Global, Inc.

   91,700      1,953,210

Oshkosh Corp.

   173,100      1,166,694
         
        5,890,833
         

Media — 2.8%

     

CKX, Inc.(a)

   353,000      1,447,300

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. - Class A(a)

   146,400      3,168,096
         
        4,615,396
         

Metals & Mining — 0.2%

     

Century Aluminum Co.(a)

   147,757      311,767
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 5.7%

     

Chesapeake Energy Corp.

   109,000      1,859,540

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   93,700      2,364,988

Massey Energy Co.

   89,100      901,692

Plains Exploration & Production Co.(a)

   90,700      1,562,761

Ultra Petroleum Corp.(a)

   37,900      1,360,231

The Williams Cos., Inc.

   122,000      1,388,360
         
        9,437,572

Personal Products — 0.7%

     

Avon Products, Inc.

   62,100      1,194,183
         

Portfolios Abbreviations

 

To simplify the listings of portfolio holdings in the Schedules of Investments, the names of certain securities have been abbreviated according to the list on the right.   ADR   American Depository Receipts

 

12

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Pharmaceuticals — 3.0%

     

Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp. - Class A

   126,400    $ 1,563,568  

Shire Plc - ADR

   95,356      3,427,095  
           
        4,990,663  
           

Professional Services — 1.7%

     

IHS, Inc. - Class A(a)

   70,100      2,886,718  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 6.4%

     

Broadcom Corp. - Class A(a)

   199,500      3,986,010  

Lam Research Corp.(a)

   127,000      2,891,790  

PMC-Sierra, Inc.(a)

   598,600      3,819,068  
           
        10,696,868  
           

Software — 9.0%

     

Adobe Systems, Inc.(a)

   141,300      3,022,407  

Amdocs Ltd.(a)

   219,300      4,061,436  

Ansys, Inc.(a)

   38,400      963,840  

CA, Inc.

   98,200      1,729,302  

Intuit, Inc.(a)

   120,500      3,253,500  

Salesforce.com, Inc.(a)

   61,200      2,003,076  
           
        15,033,561  
           

Specialty Retail — 5.4%

     

Bed Bath & Beyond, Inc.(a)

   92,200      2,281,950  

GameStop Corp. - Class A(a)

   149,300      4,183,386  

TJX Cos., Inc.

   101,600      2,605,024  
           
        9,070,360  
           

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.6%

     

Lululemon Athletica, Inc.(a)(b)

   107,200      928,352  
           

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.3%

     

American Tower Corp. - Class A(a)

   73,900      2,248,777  
           

Total Common Stocks — 97.3%

        162,023,710  
           

Exchange-Traded Funds — 1.0%

     

iShares Russell Midcap Growth Index Fund

   58,600      1,763,860  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $218,767,121) — 98.3%

        163,787,570  
           
     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60%(c)(d)

   3,181,647      3,181,647  
           

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market

     

Series, 1.17%(d)(e)

   5,261,000      5,261,000  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $8,442,647) — 5.1%

        8,442,647  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $227,209,768*) — 103.4%

        172,230,217  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (3.4)%

        (5,667,575 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 166,562,642  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 234,493,492  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 11,145,351  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (73,408,626 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (62,263,275 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 3,181,647 **   $ 4,933

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (15,210,900 )***   $ 80,758

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 172,230,217

Level 2

     —  

Level 3

     —  
      

Total

   $ 172,230,217
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    13


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 0.9%

     

Honeywell International, Inc.

   173,120    $ 4,823,123
         

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.4%

     

FedEx Corp.

   49,500      2,202,255
         

Airlines — 0.6%

     

Delta Air Lines, Inc.(a)(b)

   554,900      3,124,087
         

Auto Components — 0.9%

     

Autoliv, Inc.

   242,000      4,493,940
         

Beverages — 1.4%

     

Constellation Brands, Inc. - Class A(a)

   332,200      3,953,180

Molson Coors Brewing Co. - Class B

   99,400      3,407,432
         
        7,360,612
         

Capital Markets — 2.8%

     

The Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

   96,100      2,714,825

Freedom Pay, Inc.

   43,051      430

Invesco Ltd.

   423,480      5,869,433

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.(a)

   422,800      5,838,868
         
        14,423,556
         

Chemicals — 2.0%

     

Albemarle Corp.

   307,800      6,700,806

FMC Corp.

   86,650      3,738,081
         
        10,438,887
         

Commercial Banks — 3.1%

     

City National Corp.(b)

   110,800      3,741,716

Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.

   97,700      4,586,038

KeyCorp

   547,450      4,308,432

Zions Bancorp(b)

   324,540      3,190,228
         
        15,826,414
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 2.5%

     

Corrections Corp. of America(a)

   480,200      6,151,362

Republic Services, Inc.

   400,600      6,870,290
         
        13,021,652
         

Communications Equipment — 1.0%

     

Polycom, Inc.(a)

   328,400      5,054,076
         

Computers & Peripherals — 1.0%

     

Sun Microsystems, Inc.(a)

   221,200      1,619,184

Teradata Corp.(a)

   215,800      3,500,276
         
        5,119,460
         

Consumer Finance — 0.4%

     

Capital One Financial Corp.

   176,300      2,157,912
         

Containers & Packaging — 2.7%

     

Ball Corp.

   90,300      3,919,020

Owens-Illinois, Inc.(a)

   316,840      4,575,170

Pactiv Corp.(a)

   383,900      5,601,101
         
        14,095,291
         

Diversified Financial Services — 2.3%

     

CME Group, Inc.

   18,850      4,644,452

NYSE Euronext, Inc.

   195,300      3,495,870

PHH Corp.(a)

   273,700      3,845,485
         
        11,985,807
         

Electric Utilities — 4.4%

     

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

   200,600      5,067,156

Edison International

   186,800      5,381,708

Entergy Corp.

   98,800      6,727,292

Northeast Utilities

   244,100      5,270,119
         
        22,446,275
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 2.6%

     

Agilent Technologies, Inc.(a)

   236,700      3,638,079

Anixter International, Inc.(a)

   122,075      3,867,336

Tech Data Corp.(a)

   257,740      5,613,577
         
        13,118,992
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.6%

     

Noble Corp.

   133,300      3,211,197
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 2.3%

     

The Kroger Co.

   206,600      4,384,052

Safeway, Inc.

   359,480      7,257,901
         
        11,641,953
         

Food Products — 4.1%

     

Campbell Soup Co.

   186,300      5,097,168

Dean Foods Co.(a)

   212,800      3,847,424

Del Monte Foods Co.

   650,217      4,740,082

The J.M. Smucker Co.

   197,300      7,353,371
         
        21,038,045
         

Gas Utilities — 3.7%

     

CMS Energy Corp.

   579,300      6,858,912

EQT Corp.

   186,100      5,830,513

Questar Corp.

   216,700      6,377,481
         
        19,066,906
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 2.2%

     

The Cooper Cos., Inc.

   174,476      4,613,146

Hologic, Inc.(a)

   335,590      4,392,873

Teleflex, Inc.

   64,900      2,536,941
         
        11,542,960
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 3.0%

     

DaVita, Inc.(a)

   59,500      2,615,025

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings(a)

   97,400      5,696,926

MEDNAX, Inc.(a)

   128,050      3,773,634

WellPoint, Inc.(a)

   87,300      3,314,781
         
        15,400,366
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 2.5%

     

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

   89,100      3,052,566

Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc.(a)

   376,800      2,652,672

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.(b)

   361,600      4,592,320

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc. - Class A

   493,100      2,480,293
         
        12,777,851
         

Household Durables — 0.8%

     

Centex Corp.

   533,900      4,004,250
         

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders — 1.3%

     

NRG Energy, Inc.(a)

   364,190      6,409,744
         

Insurance — 10.4%

     

AON Corp.

   188,200      7,682,324

AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd.

   332,230      7,488,464

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

   243,399      7,014,759

HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc.

   331,400      8,347,966

RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd.

   118,500      5,858,640

The Travelers Cos., Inc.

   206,350      8,386,064

 

14

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Insurance (concluded)

     

W.R. Berkley Corp.

   392,200    $ 8,844,110  
           
        53,622,327  
           

Internet Software & Services — 1.3%

     

eBay, Inc.(a)

   522,420      6,561,595  
           

IT Services — 1.9%

     

Convergys Corp.(a)

   363,300      2,935,464  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

   381,750      6,947,850  
           
        9,883,314  
           

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.9%

     

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(a)

   131,500      4,690,605  
           

Machinery — 2.4%

     

Danaher Corp.

   86,600      4,695,452  

Eaton Corp.

   81,800      3,015,148  

SPX Corp.

   60,050      2,822,950  

Terex Corp.(a)

   185,750      1,718,188  
           
        12,251,738  
           

Media — 2.3%

     

Cablevision Systems Corp. - Class A

   456,000      5,900,640  

Viacom, Inc. - Class B(a)

   351,550      6,109,939  
           
        12,010,579  
           

Metals & Mining — 0.7%

     

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.

   138,050      3,634,856  
           

Multiline Retail — 0.9%

     

Macy’s, Inc.

   512,550      4,561,695  
           

Multi-Utilities — 3.0%

     

PG&E Corp.

   215,900      8,251,698  

Wisconsin Energy Corp.

   174,400      7,180,048  
           
        15,431,746  
           

Office Electronics — 0.4%

     

Xerox Corp.

   389,000      1,769,950  
           

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 4.8%

     

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   187,681      4,737,068  

EOG Resources, Inc.

   48,200      2,639,432  

Hess Corp.

   69,200      3,750,640  

Newfield Exploration Co.(a)

   289,600      6,573,920  

Plains Exploration & Production Co.(a)

   252,300      4,347,129  

Southwestern Energy Co.(a)

   95,300      2,829,457  
           
        24,877,646  
           

Paper & Forest Products — 1.1%

     

Weyerhaeuser Co.

   206,200      5,684,934  
           

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 3.4%

     

Boston Properties, Inc.(b)

   130,430      4,568,963  

Mack-Cali Realty Corp.

   296,400      5,871,684  

Redwood Trust, Inc.(b)

   221,270      3,396,495  

Simon Property Group, Inc.

   99,583      3,449,555  
           
        17,286,697  
           

Road & Rail — 0.8%

     

Union Pacific Corp.

   103,000      4,234,330  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 2.2%

     

Intersil Corp. - Class A

   319,340      3,672,410  

Micron Technology, Inc.(a)

   1,026,700      4,168,402  

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.(a)

   162,650      3,522,999  
           
        11,363,811  
           

Software — 1.0%

     

Amdocs Ltd. (a)

   285,714      5,291,423  

Phase Metrics, Inc.(a)

   108,409      2,168  
           
        5,293,591  
           

Specialty Retail — 3.6%

     

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. - Class A

   143,850      3,423,630  

The Gap, Inc.

   534,700      6,945,753  

Limited Brands, Inc.

   670,766      5,835,664  

The Sherwin-Williams Co.

   45,600      2,369,832  
           
        18,574,879  
           

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 0.6%

     

Astoria Financial Corp.

   350,820      3,224,036  
           

Tobacco — 1.0%

     

Lorillard, Inc.

   83,200      5,136,768  
           

Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.7%

     

W.W. Grainger, Inc.(b)

   48,722      3,419,310  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $498,504,574) — 92.9%

        478,300,018  
           
     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

     

0.60%(c)(d)

   38,826,385      38,826,385  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market

     

Series, 1.17%(d)(e)

   16,352,000      16,352,000  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $55,178,385) — 10.7%

        55,178,385  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $553,682,959*) — 103.6%

        533,478,403  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (3.6)%

        (18,612,952 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 514,865,451  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 596,676,919  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 23,365,830  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (86,564,346 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (63,198,516 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    15


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio
  

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $  38,826,385 **   $ 41,668

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (24,036,550 )***   $ 105,788

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 533,475,805

Level 2

     —  

Level 3

     2,598
      

Total

   $ 533,478,403
      

The following table is reconciliation of Level 3 investments for the period ended March 31, 2009:

 

     Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Balance as of September 30, 2008

   $ 2,598

Accrued discounts/premiums

     —  

Realized gain (loss)

     —  

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     —  

Net purchases (sales)

     —  

Net transfers in/out of Level 3

     —  
      

Balance as of March 31, 2009

   $ 2,598
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

16

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 2.2%

     

Argon ST, Inc.(a)

   81,911    $ 1,553,852

BE Aerospace, Inc.(a)

   101,700      881,739
         
        2,435,591
         

Beverages — 1.2%

     

Heckmann Corp.(a)(b)

   261,000      1,258,020
         

Biotechnology — 0.9%

     

Martek Biosciences Corp.

   54,600      996,450
         

Building Products — 0.9%

     

Griffon Corp.(a)

   130,100      975,750
         

Capital Markets — 1.0%

     

Invesco Ltd.

   77,000      1,067,220
         

Chemicals — 2.4%

     

Celanese Corp. - Series A

   109,400      1,462,678

Intrepid Potash, Inc.(a)

   62,200      1,147,590
         
        2,610,268
         

Commercial Banks — 1.3%

     

Signature Bank(a)

   51,300      1,448,199
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 4.3%

     

Clean Harbors, Inc.(a)

   36,800      1,766,400

Sykes Enterprises, Inc.(a)

   179,384      2,983,156
         
        4,749,556
         

Communications Equipment — 3.3%

     

Harris Corp.

   48,400      1,400,696

Neutral Tandem, Inc.(a)

   88,900      2,187,829
         
        3,588,525
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.6%

     

Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. NV - ADR

   104,400      654,588
         

Containers & Packaging — 1.3%

     

Rock-Tenn Co. - Class A

   53,502      1,447,229
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.8%

     

Apollo Group, Inc. - Class A(a)

   11,100      869,463
         

Diversified Financial Services — 1.5%

     

MSCI, Inc. - Class A(a)

   100,200      1,694,382
         

Electrical Equipment — 2.5%

     

AMETEK, Inc.

   70,600      2,207,662

Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.(a)(b)

   36,800      488,336
         
        2,695,998
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.5%

     

Cogent, Inc.(a)

   135,700      1,614,830
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 1.5%

     

Superior Energy Services, Inc.(a)

   56,600      729,574

Weatherford International Ltd.(a)

   78,200      865,674
         
        1,595,248
         

Food Products — 1.3%

     

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc.(a)

   17,700      849,600

Smart Balance, Inc.(a)

   90,200      544,808
         
        1,394,408
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 9.5%

     

Hologic, Inc.(a)

   114,800      1,502,732

Merit Medical Systems, Inc.(a)

   64,800      791,208

NuVasive, Inc.(a)

   10,600      332,628

ResMed, Inc.(a)

   49,100      1,735,194

SonoSite, Inc.(a)

   113,278      2,025,411

Symmetry Medical, Inc.(a)

   116,200      733,222

Wright Medical Group, Inc.(a)

   116,848      1,522,529

Zoll Medical Corp.(a)

   120,442      1,729,547
         
        10,372,471
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 7.4%

     

Amedisys, Inc.(a)(b)

   42,600      1,171,074

Lincare Holdings, Inc.(a)

   61,600      1,342,880

Magellan Health Services, Inc.(a)

   69,800      2,543,512

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.(a)

   27,400      1,132,716

MEDNAX, Inc.(a)

   63,100      1,859,557
         
        8,049,739
         

Health Care Technology — 1.2%

     

MedAssets, Inc.(a)

   95,000      1,353,750
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 4.0%

     

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Inc.(a)(b)

   53,400      1,221,792

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A(a)

   168,500      2,040,535

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. - Class A(a)

   84,900      809,097

WMS Industries, Inc.(a)

   12,600      263,466
         
        4,334,890
         

Insurance — 0.5%

     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   26,300      590,698
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.5%

     

Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc.(a)

   155,783      574,839
         

Internet Software & Services — 7.0%

     

comScore, Inc.(a)

   136,900      1,655,121

SkillSoft Plc - ADR(a)

   579,498      3,876,842

SonicWALL, Inc.(a)

   474,700      2,117,162
         
        7,649,125
         

IT Services — 8.7%

     

ExlService Holdings, Inc.(a)

   234,501      2,021,399

Forrester Research, Inc.(a)

   91,251      1,876,120

Genpact Ltd.(a)

   200,200      1,773,772

SRA International, Inc. - Class A(a)

   133,300      1,959,510

Wright Express Corp.(a)

   101,318      1,846,014
         
        9,476,815
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 2.0%

     

ICON Plc - ADR(a)

   61,200      988,380

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(a)

   34,400      1,227,048
         
        2,215,428
         

Machinery — 3.1%

     

IDEX Corp.

   72,392      1,583,213

Joy Global, Inc.

   36,500      777,450

Kaydon Corp.

   38,131      1,042,120
         
        3,402,783
         

Media — 3.6%

     

CKX, Inc.(a)

   485,700      1,991,370

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. - Class A(a)

   71,732      1,552,280

RHI Entertainment, Inc.(a)

   232,015      352,663
         
        3,896,313
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 2.7%

     

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   28,400      716,816

Delta Petroleum Corp.(a)

   22,718      27,262

EXCO Resources, Inc.(a)

   117,700      1,177,000

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    17


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

     

Plains Exploration & Production Co.(a)

   62,700    $ 1,080,321  
           
        3,001,399  
           

Personal Products — 0.9%

     

Chattem, Inc.(a)(b)

   18,400      1,031,320  

Pharmaceuticals — 2.4%

     

Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp. - Class A

   99,600      1,232,052  

Shire Plc - ADR

   39,476      1,418,768  
           
        2,650,820  
           

Professional Services — 3.0%

     

The Advisory Board Co.(a)

   65,786      1,090,732  

IHS, Inc. - Class A(a)

   52,108      2,145,807  
           
        3,236,539  
           

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 4.2%

     

FEI Co.(a)

   23,600      364,148  

Microsemi Corp.(a)

   100,900      1,170,440  

ON Semiconductor Corp.(a)

   364,600      1,421,940  

Standard Microsystems Corp.(a)

   87,300      1,623,780  
           
        4,580,308  
           

Software — 7.6%

     

Amdocs Ltd.(a)

   77,775      1,440,393  

Blackboard, Inc.(a)

   66,300      2,104,362  

DemandTec, Inc.(a)

   208,700      1,826,125  

TiVo, Inc.(a)

   409,800      2,884,992  
           
        8,255,872  
           

Specialty Retail — 1.3%

     

GameStop Corp. - Class A(a)

   51,766      1,450,483  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $138,249,111) — 98.1%

        107,219,317  
           
     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(c)(d)

   3,257,568      3,257,568  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17%(c)(d)(e)

   4,327,700      4,327,700  

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $7,585,268) — 7.0%

        7,585,268  
           

Total Investments
(Cost — $145,834,379*) — 105.1%

        114,804,585  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (5.1)%

        (5,539,901 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 109,264,684  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 148,506,651  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 5,153,023  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (38,855,089 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $  (33,702,066)  
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $  3,257,568 **   $ 1,650

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (7,251,350 )***   $ 101,268

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

*** Represents net sales cost.
(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Level 1

   $ 114,804,585

Level 2

     —  

Level 3

     —  
      

Total

   $ 114,804,585
      

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

18

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Assets and Liabilities

 

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Mid-Cap
Growth Equity
Portfolio
    Mid-Cap
Value Equity
Portfolio
    Small/Mid-Cap
Growth
Portfolio
 

Assets

      

Investments at value - unaffiliated1,2

   $ 163,787,570     $ 478,300,018     $ 107,219,317  

Investments at value - affiliated3

     8,442,647       55,178,385       7,585,268  

Cash

     17,444       31       8  

Investments sold receivable

     21,491       20,394,294       141,471  

Capital shares sold receivable

     102,925       829,252       285,224  

Dividends receivable

     51,467       844,452       19,658  

Receivable from advisor

     37,655       125,901       43,397  

Dividends receivable - affiliated

     1,870       16,331       700  

Securities lending income receivable - affiliated

     1,681       4,463       5,034  

Prepaid expenses

     54,751       82,928       48,154  

Other assets

     102,779             1,171  
                        

Total assets

     172,622,280       555,776,055       115,349,402  
                        

Liabilities

      

Collateral at value - securities loaned

     5,261,000       16,352,000       4,327,700  

Investments purchased payable

     183,755       21,868,676       948,430  

Capital shares redeemed payable

     242,924       1,534,916       463,048  

Other affiliates payable

     143,109       509,037       192,161  

Investment advisory fees payable

     106,224       325,427       65,737  

Service and distribution fees payable

     45,451       158,758       30,995  

Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

     7,032       8,628       6,860  

Other accrued expenses payable

     70,143       153,162       49,787  
                        

Total liabilities

     6,059,638       40,910,604       6,084,718  
                        

Net Assets

   $ 166,562,642     $ 514,865,451     $  109,264,684  
                        

Net Assets Consist of

      

Paid-in capital

   $ 396,514,514     $ 910,040,589     $ 177,599,536  

Undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income

     347,151       1,404,714       (306,768 )

Accumulated net realized loss

     (175,319,472 )     (376,375,296 )     (36,998,290 )

Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (54,979,551 )     (20,204,556 )     (31,029,794 )
                        

Net Assets

   $ 166,562,642     $ 514,865,451     $ 109,264,684  
                        
1 Investments at cost- unaffiliated    $ 218,767,121     $ 498,504,574     $ 138,249,111  
2 Securities loaned at value    $ 5,176,400     $ 16,463,630     $ 4,152,226  
3 Investments at cost - affiliated    $ 8,442,647     $ 55,178,385     $ 7,585,268  

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    19


Statements of Assets and Liabilities (concluded)

 

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Mid-Cap
Growth Equity
Portfolio
   Mid-Cap
Value Equity
Portfolio
   Small/Mid-Cap
Growth
Portfolio

Net Asset Value

        

Institutional:

        

Net Assets

   $ 18,209,340    $ 112,928,966    $ 11,540,656
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     2,538,221      17,256,305      1,496,388
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 7.17    $ 6.54    $ 7.71
                    

Service:

        

Net Assets

   $ 290,385    $ 1,623,543      —  
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     42,410      252,429      —  
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 6.85    $ 6.43      —  
                    

Investor A:

        
        

Net Assets

   $ 128,549,176    $ 294,688,369    $ 84,236,650
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     19,386,127      46,354,585      11,704,099
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 6.63    $ 6.36    $ 7.20
                    

Investor B:

        
        

Net Assets

   $ 10,189,159    $ 35,968,041    $ 5,489,226
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     1,722,793      6,206,494      895,606
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 5.91    $ 5.80    $ 6.13
                    

Investor C:

        
        

Net Assets

   $ 8,752,981    $ 69,656,532    $ 6,362,096
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     1,480,121      12,055,721      1,036,725
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 5.91    $ 5.78    $ 6.14
                    

R:

        
        

Net Assets

   $ 571,601      —      $ 1,636,056
                    

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     86,273      —        229,534
                    

Net Asset Value

   $ 6.63      —      $ 7.13
                    

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Operations

 

Six Months Ended March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Mid-Cap
Growth Equity
Portfolio
    Mid-Cap
Value Equity
Portfolio
    Small/Mid-Cap
Growth
Portfolio
 

Investment Income

      

Dividends

   $ 591,904     $ 6,290,618     $ 156,611  

Securities lending - affiliated

     80,758       105,788       101,268  

Interest and dividends - affiliated

     5,941       42,938       1,987  

Interest

     1,080       3,753       615  

Foreign taxes withheld

     (430 )     —         —    
                        

Total investment income

     679,253       6,443,097       260,481  
                        

Expenses

      

Investment advisory

     692,898       2,252,849       444,581  

Transfer agent - class specific

     411,196       944,519       338,442  

Service and distribution - class specific

     271,940       1,011,683       184,910  

Administration

     64,959       207,820       44,458  

Printing

     45,218       133,902       26,644  

Registration

     25,044       27,680       22,140  

Administration - class specific

     21,668       70,487       14,837  

Professional

     18,374       25,852       17,470  

Custodian

     11,762       25,313       12,560  

Officer and Trustees

     8,601       11,184       8,324  

Miscellaneous

     9,089       14,927       7,698  
                        

Total expenses

     1,580,749       4,726,216       1,122,064  

Less fees waived by advisor

     (414 )     (53,172 )     (144 )

Less administration fees waived - class specific

     (19,739 )     (70,487 )     (14,837 )

Less transfer agent fees waived - class specific

     (36,567 )     (62 )     (16 )

Less transfer agent fees reimbursed - class specific

     (109,232 )     (803,469 )     (267,913 )

Less fees paid indirectly

     (1,577 )     (2,005 )     (510 )
                        

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1,413,220       3,797,021       838,644  
                        

Net investment income (loss)

     (733,967 )     2,646,076       (578,163 )
                        

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

      

Net realized loss from investments

     (30,205,093 )     (303,423,805 )     (31,470,052 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments

     (47,776,249 )     29,866,805       (29,533,599 )
                        

Total realized and unrealized loss

     (77,981,342 )     (273,557,000 )     (61,003,651 )
                        

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

   $ (78,715,309 )   $ (270,910,924 )   $ (61,581,814 )
                        

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    21


Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

     Mid-Cap
Growth Equity
Portfolio
    Mid-Cap
Value Equity
Portfolio
    Small/Mid-Cap
Growth
Portfolio
 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:

   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 

Operations

            

Net investment income (loss)

   $ (733,967 )   $ (2,988,481 )   $ 2,646,076     $ 3,717,731     $ (578,163 )   $ (1,794,557 )

Net realized gain (loss)

     (30,205,093 )     22,460,515       (303,423,805 )     (49,098,035 )     (31,470,052 )     724,275  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (47,776,249 )     (106,025,639 )     29,866,805       (174,716,820 )     (29,533,599 )     (57,802,393 )
                                                

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

     (78,715,309 )     (86,553,605 )     (270,910,924 )     (220,097,124 )     (61,581,814 )     (58,872,675 )
                                                

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From

            

Net investment income:

            

Institutional

     —         —         (1,133,643 )     (484,718 )     (24,231 )     —    

Service

     —         —         (15,870 )     (2,856 )     —         —    

Investor A

     —         —         (3,029,032 )     (431,750 )     (140,153 )     —    

Investor B

     —         —         (358,215 )     —         —         —    

Investor C

     —         —         (649,056 )     —         —         —    

R

     —         —         —         —         (1,194 )     —    

Tax return of capital:

            

Institutional

     —         —         —         (118,755 )     —         —    

Service

     —         —         —         (2,975 )     —         —    

Investor A

     —         —         —         (574,416 )     —         —    

Investor B

     —         —         —         (111,910 )     —         —    

Investor C

     —         —         —         (166,401 )     —         —    

Net realized gain:

            

Institutional

     —         —         —         (15,654,461 )     —         (3,835,548 )

Service

     —         —         —         (392,228 )     —         —    

Investor A

     —         —         —         (75,720,395 )     —         (36,072,316 )

Investor B

     —         —         —         (13,884,159 )     —         (3,584,103 )

Investor C

     —         —         —         (20,826,117 )     —         (3,000,370 )

R

     —         —         —         —         —         (221,880 )
                                                

Decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and distributions to shareholders

     —         —         (5,185,816 )     (128,371,141 )     (165,578 )     (46,714,217 )
                                                

Capital Share Transactions

            

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

     (11,881,182 )     (70,749,257 )     (9,476,573 )     74,762,087       (7,883,903 )     (591,809 )
                                                

Redemption Fees

            

Redemption fees

     —         —         —         —         5,162       14,117  
                                                

Net Assets

            

Total decrease in net assets

     (90,596,491 )     (157,302,862 )     (285,573,313 )     (273,706,178 )     (69,626,133 )     (106,164,584 )

Beginning of period

     257,159,133       414,461,995       800,438,764       1,074,144,942       178,890,817       285,055,401  
                                                

End of period

   $ 166,562,642     $ 257,159,133     $ 514,865,451     $ 800,438,764     $ 109,264,684     $ 178,890,817  
                                                

End of period undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income

   $ 347,151     $ 1,081,118     $ 1,404,714     $ 3,944,454     $ (306,768 )   $ 436,973  
                                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

22

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights    Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

     Institutional     Service  
   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

                        

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 10.33     $ 13.49     $ 10.70     $ 10.44     $ 8.76     $ 7.57     $ 9.87     $ 12.92     $ 10.27     $ 10.07     $ 8.46     $ 7.33  
                                                                                                

Net investment loss1

     (0.02 )     (0.04 )     (0.07 )     (0.06 )     (0.07 )     (0.06 )     (0.02 )     (0.07 )     (0.09 )     (0.11 )     (0.07 )     (0.08 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (3.14 )     (3.12 )     2.86       0.45       1.75       1.25       (3.00 )     (2.98 )     2.74       0.44       1.68       1.21  
                                                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (3.16 )     (3.16 )     2.79       0.39       1.68       1.19       (3.02 )     (3.05 )     2.65       0.33       1.61       1.13  
                                                                                                

Distributions from net realized gain

     —         —         —         (0.13 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.13 )     —         —    
                                                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 7.17     $ 10.33     $ 13.49     $ 10.70     $ 10.44     $ 8.76     $ 6.85     $ 9.87     $ 12.92     $ 10.27     $ 10.07     $ 8.46  
                                                                                                

Total Investment Return

                        

Based on net asset value

     (30.59 )%3     (23.43 )%     26.08 %4     3.75 %4     19.18 %4     15.72 %4     (30.60 )%3     (23.61 )%     25.80 %4     3.29 %4     19.03 %4     15.42 %4
                                                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

                        

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.21 %5     1.06 %     1.05 %     1.08 %     1.23 %     1.23 %     1.47 %5     1.28 %     1.22 %     1.53 %     1.53 %     1.53 %
                                                                                                

Total expenses

     1.26 %5     1.07 %     1.06 %     1.15 %     1.41 %     1.28 %     1.70 %5     1.29 %     1.32 %     2.02 %     1.60 %     1.56 %
                                                                                                

Net investment loss

     (0.43 )%5     (0.33 )%     (0.59 )%     (0.60 )%     (0.72 )%     (0.65 )%     (0.68 )%5     (0.56 )%     (0.76 )%     (1.06 )%     (0.77 )%     (0.97 )%
                                                                                                

Supplemental Data

                        

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 18,209     $ 26,468     $ 75,577     $ 75,111     $ 75,407     $ 40,337     $ 290     $ 459     $ 714     $ 757     $ 1,136     $ 10,871  
                                                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     22 %     45 %     53 %     64 %     85 %     29 %     22 %     45 %     53 %     64 %     85 %     29 %
                                                                                                

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Aggregate total investment return.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    23


Financial Highlights (continued)   Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

 

    Investor A     Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,  
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004     (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.56     $ 12.55     $ 10.00     $ 9.82     $ 8.26     $ 7.17     $ 8.56     $ 11.32     $ 9.09     $ 9.00     $ 7.63     $ 6.67  
                                                                                               

Net investment loss1

    (0.03 )     (0.10 )     (0.12 )     (0.11 )     (0.11 )     (0.09 )     (0.04 )     (0.17 )     (0.18 )     (0.17 )     (0.15 )     (0.14 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.90 )     (2.89 )     2.67       0.42       1.67       1.18       (2.61 )     (2.59 )     2.41       0.39       1.52       1.10  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.93 )     (2.99 )     2.55       0.31       1.56       1.09       (2.65 )     (2.76 )     2.23       0.22       1.37       0.96  
                                                                                               

Distributions from net realized gain

    —         —         —         (0.13 )     —         —         —         —         —         (0.13 )     —         —    
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.63     $ 9.56     $ 12.55     $ 10.00     $ 9.82     $ 8.26     $ 5.91     $ 8.56     $ 11.32     $ 9.09     $ 9.00     $ 7.63  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (30.65 )%4     (23.83 )%     25.50 %5     3.16 %5     18.89 %5     15.20 %5     (30.96 )%4     (24.38 )%     24.53 %5     2.44 %5     17.96 %5     14.39 %5
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.58 %6     1.53 %     1.57 %     1.58 %     1.58 %     1.67 %     2.33 %6     2.31 %     2.25 %     2.33 %     2.33 %     2.44 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.77 %6     1.53 %     1.60 %     1.74 %     1.78 %     1.77 %     2.78 %6     2.45 %     2.46 %     2.54 %     2.41 %     2.45 %
                                                                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.80 )%6     (0.81 )%     (1.11 )%     (1.11 )%     (1.14 )%     (1.09 )%     (1.51 )%6     (1.58 )%     (1.79 )%     (1.86 )%     (1.82 )%     (1.86 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 128,549     $ 195,980     $ 274,333     $ 257,729     $ 290,285     $ 27,777     $ 10,189     $ 19,565     $ 43,610     $ 48,635     $ 59,100     $ 31,900  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    22 %     45 %     53 %     64 %     85 %     29 %     22 %     45 %     53 %     64 %     85 %     29 %
                                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

24

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)   Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

    Investor C     R  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
    Period
October 2, 20067 to
September 30, 2007
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004     (Unaudited)      

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 8.56     $ 11.32     $ 9.09     $ 9.00     $ 7.63     $ 6.67     $ 9.56     $ 12.55     $ 9.92  
                                                                       

Net investment loss1

    (0.05 )     (0.16 )     (0.19 )     (0.17 )     (0.15 )     (0.14 )     (0.03 )     (0.10 )     (0.13 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.60 )     (2.60 )     2.42       0.39       1.52       1.10       (2.90 )     (2.89 )     2.76  
                                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.65 )     (2.76 )     2.23       0.22       1.37       0.96       (2.93 )     (2.99 )     2.63  
                                                                       

Distributions from net realized gain

    —         —         —         (0.13 )     —         —         —         —         —    
                                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         —         0.00 2
                                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 5.91     $ 8.56     $ 11.32     $ 9.09     $ 9.00     $ 7.63     $ 6.63     $ 9.56     $ 12.55  
                                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (30.96 )%3,4     (24.38 )%3     24.53 %3,5     2.44 %3,5     17.96 %3,5     14.39 %3,5     (30.65 )%4     (23.83 )%     26.51 %4,5
                                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.33 %6     2.25 %     2.30 %     2.33 %     2.33 %     2.44 %     1.60 %6     1.58 %     1.59 %6
                                                                       

Total expenses

    2.53 %6     2.25 %     2.31 %     2.37 %     2.41 %     2.45 %     2.07 %6     1.73 %     1.63 %6
                                                                       

Net investment loss

    (1.55 )%6     (1.53 )%     (1.84 )%     (1.86 )%     (1.83 )%     (1.86 )%     (0.84 )%6     (0.82 )%     (1.12 )%6
                                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 8,753     $ 13,964     $ 20,203     $ 18,047     $ 20,748     $ 11,269     $ 572     $ 723     $ 25  
                                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    22 %     45 %     53 %     64 %     85 %     29 %     22 %     45 %     53 %
                                                                       

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Commencement of operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    25


Financial Highlights (continued)   Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

 

    Institutional  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
    Period
July 1, 2004 to
February 28, 2005
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005    

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.94     $ 14.35     $ 13.67     $ 13.74     $ 12.73     $ 12.14  
                                               

Net investment income

    0.05 1     0.10 1     0.11 1     0.12 1     0.04 1     0.11  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.38 )     (2.77 )     2.38       1.23       0.97       1.44  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.33 )     (2.67 )     2.49       1.35       1.01       1.55  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

 

Net investment income

    (0.07 )     —         (0.15 )     (0.04 )     —         (0.15 )

Tax return of capital

    —         (0.02 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (1.72 )     (1.66 )     (1.38 )     —         (0.81 )
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.07 )     (1.74 )     (1.81 )     (1.42 )     —         (0.96 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.54     $ 9.94     $ 14.35     $ 13.67     $ 13.74     $ 12.73  
                                               

Total Investment Return

           

Based on net asset value

    (33.54 )%3     (20.74 )%     19.35 %4     10.77 %4     7.94 %3,4     13.07 %3
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    0.94 %5     0.94 %     0.95 %     0.99 %     1.00 %5     0.99 %5
                                               

Total expenses

    1.16 %5     1.10 %     1.07 %     1.07 %     1.30 %5     1.09 %5
                                               

Net investment income

    1.37 %5     0.82 %     0.79 %     0.88 %     0.49 %5     1.18 %5
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 112,929     $ 141,900     $ 134,665     $ 80,292     $ 53,111     $ 50,383  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    110 %     117 %     202 %     153 %     60 %     53 %
                                               
    Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
    Period
January 28, 2005to
February 28, 2005
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005    

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.78     $ 14.14     $ 13.49     $ 13.61     $ 12.63     $ 12.04  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.04 1     0.06 1     0.10 1     0.08 1     0.02 1     (0.01 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.33 )     (2.72 )     2.33       1.21       0.96       0.60  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.29 )     (2.66 )     2.43       1.29       0.98       0.59  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

 

Net investment income

    (0.06 )     —         (0.12 )     (0.03 )     —         —    

Tax return of capital

    —         (0.02 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (1.68 )     (1.66 )     (1.38 )     —         —    

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.06 )     (1.70 )     (1.78 )     (1.41 )     —         —    
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.43     $ 9.78     $ 14.14     $ 13.49     $ 13.61     $ 12.63  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (33.64 )%3     (20.95 )%     19.10 %4     10.45 %4     7.76 %3,4     4.89 %3
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.25 %5     1.23 %     1.20 %     1.25 %     1.25 %5     1.25 %5
                                               

Total expenses

    1.37 %5     1.25 %     1.24 %     1.50 %     1.54 %5     1.49 %5
                                               

Net investment income

    1.04 %5     0.54 %     0.68 %     0.61 %     0.20 %5     0.39 %5
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 1,624     $ 2,431     $ 3,716     $ 3,130     $ 889     $ 1,374  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    110 %     117 %     202 %     153 %     60 %     53 %
                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

26

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)   Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

 

    Investor A  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
    Period
July 1, 2004 to
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     February 28, 2005  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.66     $ 14.00     $ 13.38     $ 13.49     $ 12.53     $ 11.92  
                                               

Net investment income

    0.04 1     0.06 1     0.08 1     0.08 1     0.02 1     0.07  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.28 )     (2.70 )     2.32       1.21       0.94       1.45  
                                               

Net increase from investment operations

    (3.24 )     (2.64 )     2.40       1.29       0.96       1.52  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    (0.06 )     —         (0.12 )     (0.02 )     —         (0.11 )

Tax return of capital

    —         (0.02 )     —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (1.68 )     (1.66 )     (1.38 )     —         (0.80 )
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.06 )     (1.70 )     (1.78 )     (1.40 )     —         (0.91 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.36     $ 9.66     $ 14.00     $ 13.38     $ 13.49     $ 12.53  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value7

    (33.54 )%3     (21.04 )%     19.02 %4     10.56 %4     7.66 %3,4     12.98 %3
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.25 %5     1.25 %     1.25 %     1.25 %     1.25 %5     1.24 %5
                                               

Total expenses

    1.59 %5     1.43 %     1.40 %     1.56 %     1.64 %5     1.38 %5
                                               

Net investment income

    1.03 %5     0.53 %     0.61 %     0.62 %     0.24 %5     0.92 %5
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 294,688     $ 470,265     $ 642,264     $ 497,964     $ 500,479     $ 448,237  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    110 %     117 %     202 %     153 %     60 %     53 %
                                               

 

* The performance prior to January 31, 2005 set forth in this table is the financial data of State Street Research Mid-Cap Value Fund, a series of a predecessor trust, State Street Research Equity Trust. BlackRock Funds acquired all of the assets and certain stated liabilities of State Street Research Mid-Cap Value Fund on January 28, 2005. The net asset values and other per share information listed have been restated to reflect the conversion ratios of 1.56483770, 1.57950264, 1.62345461 and 1.63087248 for Institutional, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Aggregate total investment return.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Annualized.

 

6 Commencement of operations.

 

7 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    27


Financial Highlights (continued)   Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

 

    Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
    Period
July 1, 2004 to
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     February 28, 2005  

Per Share Operating Performance

           

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 8.84     $ 12.92     $ 12.46     $ 12.73     $ 11.87     $ 11.28  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.01 1     (0.02 )1     (0.01 )1     (0.02 )1     (0.04 )1     (0.03 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.00 )     (2.47 )     2.15       1.13       0.90       1.41  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.99 )     (2.49 )     2.14       1.11       0.86       1.38  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    (0.05 )     —         (0.02 )     —         —         (0.01 )

Net realized gain

    —         (1.59 )     (1.66 )     (1.38 )     —         (0.78 )
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.05 )     (1.59 )     (1.68 )     (1.38 )     —         (0.79 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 5.80     $ 8.84     $ 12.92     $ 12.46     $ 12.73     $ 11.87  
                                               

Total Investment Return

           

Based on net asset value3

    (33.84 )%4     (21.53 )%     18.18 %5     9.63 %5     7.25 %4,5     12.39 %4
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

           

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.00 %6     2.00 %     2.00 %     2.00 %     2.00 %6     1.99 %6
                                               

Total expenses

    2.42 %6     2.24 %     2.23 %     2.25 %     2.29 %6     2.09 %6
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.27 %6     (0.21 )%     (0.09 )%     (0.13 )%     (0.52 )%6     0.20 %6
                                               

Supplemental Data

           

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 35,968     $ 67,656     $ 119,768     $ 124,089     $ 131,651     $ 128,568  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    110 %     117 %     202 %     153 %     60 %     53 %
                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

28

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

 

 

    Investor C  
   

Six Months

Ended
March 31, 2009

    Year Ended September 30,    

Period

March 1, 2005 to

   

Period

July 1, 2004 to

 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     February 28, 2005  

Per Share Operating Performance

           

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 8.81     $ 12.90     $ 12.46     $ 12.73     $ 11.87     $ 11.28  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.01 1     (0.02 )1     (0.02 )1     (0.02 )1     (0.04 )1     (0.03 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.99 )     (2.47 )     2.15       1.13       0.90       1.40  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.98 )     (2.49 )     2.13       1.11       0.86       1.37  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    (0.05 )     —         (0.03 )     —         —         (0.01 )

Net realized gain

    —         (1.60 )     (1.66 )     (1.38 )     —         (0.77 )
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.05 )     (1.60 )     (1.69 )     (1.38 )     —         (0.78 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 5.78     $ 8.81     $ 12.90     $ 12.46     $ 12.73     $ 11.87  
                                               

Total Investment Return

           

Based on net asset value3

    (33.84 )%4     (21.56 )%     18.16 %5     9.63 %5     7.25 %4,5     12.40 %4
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

           

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.00 %6     2.00 %     2.00 %     2.00 %     2.00 %6     1.99 %6
                                               

Total expenses

    2.42 %6     2.20 %     2.21 %     2.15 %     2.29 %6     2.09 %6
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.28 %6     (0.22 )%     (0.14 )%     (0.13 )%     (0.50 )%6     0.19 %6
                                               

Supplemental Data

           

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 69,657     $ 118,186     $ 173,731     $ 137,382     $ 103,344     $ 91,657  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    110 %     117 %     202 %     153 %     60 %     53 %
                                               

 

* The performance prior to January 31, 2005 set forth in this table is the financial data of State Street Research Mid-Cap Value Fund, a series of a predecessor trust, State Street Research Equity Trust. BlackRock Funds acquired all of the assets and certain stated liabilities of State Street Research Mid-Cap Value Fund on January 28, 2005. The net asset values and other per share information listed have been restated to reflect the conversion ratios of 1.56483770, 1.57950264, 1.62345461 and 1.63087248 for Institutional, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    29


Financial Highlights (continued)   Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

 

 

    Institutional  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,  
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

           

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.80     $ 18.24     $ 15.51     $ 15.16     $ 12.49     $ 12.11  
                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.03 )1     (0.06 )1     (0.12 )1     (0.10 )1     (0.17 )1     (0.10 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (4.04 )     (3.49 )     3.68       1.09       2.84       0.48  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (4.07 )     (3.55 )     3.56       0.99       2.67       0.38  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    (0.02 )     —         —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (2.89 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —    
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.02 )     (2.89 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —    
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 7.71     $ 11.80     $ 18.24     $ 15.51     $ 15.16     $ 12.49  
                                               

Total Investment Return

           

Based on net asset value

    (34.52 )%3,4     (22.78 )%3     23.74 %3     6.63 %3     21.38 %3     3.14 %
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

           

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.10 %5     1.10 %     1.05 %     0.99 %     1.10 %     1.09 %
                                               

Total expenses

    1.98 %5     1.44 %     1.38 %     1.06 %     1.28 %     1.28 %
                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.66 )%5     (0.41 )%     (0.71 )%     (0.64 )%     (0.72 )%     (0.80 )%
                                               

Supplemental Data

           

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 11,541     $ 17,019     $ 26,976     $ 23,866     $ 20,133     $ 87,520  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    33 %     63 %     76 %     49 %     122 %     208 %
                                               

 

    Investor A     Investor B  
  Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,  
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004     (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.03     $ 17.24     $ 14.74     $ 14.48     $ 11.96     $ 11.63     $ 9.41     $ 15.09     $ 13.10     $ 13.03     $ 10.84     $ 10.62  
                                                                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.03 )1     (0.09 )1     (0.15 )1     (0.15 )1     (0.13 )1     (0.14 )     (0.05 )1     (0.17 )1     (0.24 )1     (0.23 )1     (0.19 )1     (0.21 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.79 )     (3.26 )     3.48       1.05       2.65       0.47       (3.23 )     (2.80 )     3.06       0.94       2.38       0.43  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.82 )     (3.35 )     3.33       0.90       2.52       0.33       (3.28 )     (2.97 )     2.82       0.71       2.19       0.22  
                                                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

                       

Net investment income

    (0.01 )     —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (2.86 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —         —         (2.71 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —    
                                                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.01 )     (2.86 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —         —         (2.71 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —    
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —    
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 7.20     $ 11.03     $ 17.24     $ 14.74     $ 14.48     $ 11.96     $ 6.13     $ 9.41     $ 15.09     $ 13.10     $ 13.03     $ 10.84  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value6

    (34.62 )%3,4     (22.93 )%3     23.41 %3     6.31 %3     21.07 %3     2.84 %     (34.86 )%3,4     (23.51 )%3     22.40 %3     5.52 %3     20.20 %3     2.17 %
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.35 %5     1.35 %     1.26 %     1.35 %     1.37 %*     1.39 %     2.10 %5     2.10 %     2.09 %     2.10 %     2.10 %     2.09 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.76 %5     1.45 %     1.42 %     1.66 %     1.64 %     1.56 %     2.68 %5     2.40 %     2.40 %     2.40 %     2.30 %     2.25 %
                                                                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.91 )%5     (0.66 )%     (0.92 )%     (1.00 )%     (0.87 )%     (1.09 )%     (1.66 )%5     (1.40 )%     (1.75 )%     (1.75 )%     (1.58 )%     (1.79 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 84,237     $ 138,073     $ 218,851     $ 209,646     $ 215,622     $ 268,065     $ 5,489     $ 10,468     $ 21,110     $ 23,085     $ 24,925     $ 24,880  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    33 %     63 %     76 %     49 %     122 %     208 %     33 %     63 %     76 %     49 %     122 %     208 %
                                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

30

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (concluded)   Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

 

 

    Investor C     R  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended     Period
October 2, 2006to
 
  (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     2005     2004     (Unaudited)     September 30, 2008     September 30, 2007  

Per Share Operating Performance

                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.42     $ 15.12     $ 13.12     $ 13.06     $ 10.87     $ 10.64     $ 10.93     $ 17.18     $ 14.54  
                                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.05 )1     (0.17 )1     (0.24 )1     (0.23 )1     (0.20 )1     (0.21 )     (0.05 )1     (0.12 )1     (0.20 )1

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (3.23 )     (2.80 )     3.07       0.93       2.39       0.44       (3.74 )     (3.23 )     3.67  
                                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.28 )     (2.97 )     2.83       0.70       2.19       0.23       (3.79 )     (3.35 )     3.47  
                                                                       

Dividends and distributions from:

                 

Net investment income

    —         —         —         —         —         —         (0.01 )     —         —    

Net realized gain

    —         (2.73 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —         —         (2.90 )     (0.83 )
                                                                       

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (2.73 )     (0.83 )     (0.64 )     —         —         (0.01 )     (2.90 )     (0.83 )
                                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     —         0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.14     $ 9.42     $ 15.12     $ 13.12     $ 13.06     $ 10.87     $ 7.13     $ 10.93     $ 17.18  
                                                                       

Total Investment Return

                 

Based on net asset value

    (34.82 )%3,4,6     (23.52 )%3,6     22.44 %3,6     5.43 %3,6     20.15 %3,6     2.16 %6     (34.71 )%3,4     (23.08 )%3     24.68 %3,4
                                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

                 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.10 %5     2.10 %     2.07 %     2.10 %     2.10 %     2.09 %     1.63 %5     1.61 %     1.56 %5
                                                                       

Total expenses

    2.58 %5     2.25 %     2.23 %     2.30 %     2.32 %     2.26 %     2.35 %5     2.07 %     1.81 %5
                                                                       

Net investment loss

    (1.66 )%5     (1.41 )%     (1.73 )%     (1.75 )%     (1.60 )%     (1.79 )%     (1.20 )%5     (0.93 )%     (1.22 )%5
                                                                       

Supplemental Data

                 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 6,362     $ 11,427     $ 17,047     $ 17,041     $ 20,963     $ 29,627     $ 1,636     $ 1,903     $ 1,071  
                                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    33 %     63 %     76 %     49 %     122 %     208 %     33 %     63 %     76 %
                                                                       

 

* For the period October 1, 2004, through January 28, 2005, the expense ratio reflects the expenses of State Street Research Emerging Growth Fund prior to its reorganization with the Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio on January 28, 2005. The expense ratio for the period October 1, 2004 through January 28, 2005 was 1.41%. The expense ratio of the Portfolio for the period January 29, 2005 through September 30, 2005 was 1.31%.

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Annualized.

 

6 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

7 Commencement of operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    31


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies:

BlackRock FundsSM (the “Fund”), a Massachusetts business trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. As of March 31, 2009, the Fund had 27 registered portfolios, of which the BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio (“Mid-Cap Growth Equity”), BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio (“Mid-Cap Value Equity”), and BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio (“Small/Mid-Cap Growth”) (collectively the “Portfolios”) are included in these financial statements. The Portfolios’ financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Portfolio offers multiple classes of shares. Institutional Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain eligible investors. Service Shares are sold without a sales charge. Investor A Shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares of Investor B and Investor C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. R Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain retirement and other similar plans. All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except that the Service, Investor A, Investor B, Investor C and R Shares may bear certain expenses related to the service and/or distribution of such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to matters relating to its service and distribution expenditures (except that Investor B shareholders may vote on material changes to the Investor A distribution plan).

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolios:

Valuation of Investments: Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange or the NASDAQ Global Market System are valued at the last reported sale price that day or the NASDAQ official closing price, if applicable. For equity investments traded on more than one exchange, the last reported sale price on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded is used. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last available bid price. If no bid price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the security. Short-term securities with maturities less than 60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments in investment companies are valued at the net asset value each business day. The Portfolios value their investments in the BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series at fair value, which is ordinarily based upon their pro rata ownership in the net assets of the underlying fund.

In the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment which is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, the investment will be valued by a method approved by the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) as reflecting fair value (“Fair Value Assets”). When determining the price for Fair Value Assets, the investment advisor seeks to determine the price that the Portfolios might reasonably expect to receive from the current sale of that asset in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the investment advisor deems relevant. The pricing of all Fair Value Assets is subsequently reported to the Board or a committee thereof.

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Portfolios have determined the ex-dividend date. Upon notification from issuers, some of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Income, realized and unrealized gains and losses of the Portfolios are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

Dividends and Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by the Portfolios are recorded on the ex-dividend dates.

Securities Lending: The Portfolios may lend securities to financial institutions that provide cash which will be maintained at all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Portfolios and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Portfolios on the next business day. The Portfolios typically receive income on the loaned securities but do not receive the income on the collateral. The Portfolios may invest the cash collateral and retain the amount earned on such investment, net of any amount rebated to the borrower. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions. The Portfolios may pay reasonable lending agent, administrative and custodial fees in connection with their loans. In the event that the borrower defaults on its obligation to return borrowed securities because of insolvency or for any other reason, the Portfolios could experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Portfolios also could suffer a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of loaned securities.

Income Taxes: It is each Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of their taxable income to their shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax may be imposed on interest, dividends and capital gains at various rates.

The Portfolios file US federal and various state and local tax returns. No income tax returns are currently under examination. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s US federal income tax returns remain open for each of the four years ended September 30, 2008. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s state and local tax returns may remain open for an additional year depending upon the jurisdiction.

 

32

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncement: In March 2008, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities—an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”), was issued. FAS 161 is intended to improve financial reporting for derivative instruments by requiring enhanced disclosure that enables investors to understand how and why an entity uses derivatives, how derivatives are accounted for, and how derivative instruments affect an entity’s results of operations and financial position. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The impact on each Portfolio’s financial statement disclosures is currently being assessed.

Other: Expenses directly related to a Portfolio or class are charged to that Portfolio or class. Other operating expenses shared by several funds are pro-rated among those funds on the basis of relative net assets or other appropriate methods. Other expenses of a Portfolio are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

2. Investment Advisory Agreement and Other Transactions with Affiliates:

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Advisor”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc., to provide investment advisory services. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) and Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”) are the largest stockholders of BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BAC became a stockholders of BlackRock following its acquisition of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. (“Merrill Lynch”) on January 1, 2009. Prior to that date, both PNC and Merrill Lynch were considered affiliates of the Fund under the 1940 Act. Subsequent to the acquisition, PNC remains an affiliate, but due to the restructuring of Merrill Lynch’s ownership interest of BlackRock, BAC is not deemed to be an affiliate under the 1940 Act.

The Advisor is responsible for the management of each Portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services necessary to the operations of the Portfolios. For such services, each Portfolio pays the Advisor a monthly fee based on the average daily value of the Portfolio’s net assets, at the following annual rates:

 

Average Daily Net Assets

   Mid-Cap Growth Equity
and

Mid-Cap Value Equity
    Small/Mid-Cap
Growth
 

First $1 Billion

   0.800 %   0.750 %

$1 Billion - $2 Billion

   0.700     0.700  

$2 Billion - $3 Billion

   0.650     0.675  

Greater Than $3 Billion

   0.625     0.650  

The Advisor contractually agreed to waive or reimburse fees or expenses until February 1, 2010, in order to limit expenses. These expense limits apply to the aggregate expenses incurred on a share class (excluding: interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, expenses incurred as a result of investments in other funds and other expenses attributable to, and incurred as a result of, a Portfolio’s investments and other extraordinary expenses). This agreement is reviewed annually by the Board. The current expense limitations as a percentage of net assets are as follows:

 

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
    Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
    Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth
 

Institutional

   1.23 %   0.94 %   1.10 %

Service

   1.53 %   1.25 %   1.35 %1

Investor A

   1.58 %   1.25 %   1.35 %

Investor B

   2.33 %   2.00 %   2.10 %

Investor C

   2.33 %   2.00 %   2.10 %

R

   1.60 %   1.98 %1   1.63 %

 

1 There were no shares outstanding as of March 31, 2009.

PFPC Trust Company, an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as custodian for each Portfolio. For these services, the custodian receives a fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily gross assets of each Portfolio. The fee is based on a percentage of the average daily net assets at the following annual rates: 0.005% of the first $400 million, 0.004% of the next $1.6 billion, and 0.003% of average daily gross assets in excess of $2 billion; plus per transaction charges and other miscellaneous fees incurred on behalf of each Portfolio.

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc. (“PNCGIS”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Each class of each Portfolio bears the costs of transfer agent fees associated with such respective class. Transfer agent fees borne by each class of each Portfolio are comprised of those fees charged for all shareholder communications including mailing of shareholder reports, dividend and distribution notices, and proxy materials for shareholders meetings, as well as per account and per transaction fees related to servicing and maintenance of shareholder accounts, including the issuing, redeeming and transferring of shares of each class of each Portfolio, 12b-1 fee calculations, check writing, anti-money laundering services, and customer identification services.

Pursuant to written agreements, Merrill Lynch and certain other affiliates provide the Portfolios with sub-accounting, recordkeeping, sub-transfer agency and other administrative services with respect to sub-accounts they service. For these services, affiliates receive an annual fee per shareholder account which will vary depending on share class. The Portfolios incurred the following fees in return for these services, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations:

 

     Merrill Lynch    Other Affiliates
     Period
October 1, 2008

to
December 31, 2008
   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 11,932    $ 6,566

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     106,399      8,047

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     63,623      601

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    33


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

PNCGIS and the Advisor act as co-administrators for the Portfolios. For these services, the co-administrators receive a combined administration fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily net assets of each Portfolio. The combined administration fee is paid at the following annual rates: 0.075% of the first $500 million, 0.065% of the next $500 million and 0.055% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, each of the share classes is charged an administration fee based on the following percentages of average daily net assets of each respective class: 0.025% of the first $500 million of each Portfolio, 0.015% of the next $500 million and 0.005% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, PNCGIS and the Advisor may have, at their discretion, voluntarily waived all or any portion of their administration fees for a Portfolio or a share class.

The Portfolios have received an exemptive order from the Securities and Exchange Commission permitting them to lend portfolio securities to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith (“MLPF&S”) or its affiliates. Pursuant to that order, the Portfolios have retained BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (“BIM”), an affiliate of the Advisor, as the securities lending agent for a fee based on a share of the returns on investment of cash collateral. BIM may, on behalf of the Portfolios, invest cash collateral received by the Portfolios for such loans, among other things, in a private investment company managed by the Advisor or in registered money market funds advised by the Advisor or its affiliates. The share of income earned by the Portfolios on such investments is shown as securities lending — affiliated on the Statements of Operations. The securities lending agent fees received by BIM were as follows:

 

     Securities lending
agent fees for the
six months ended
March 31, 2009

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 18,594

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     22,398

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     23,476

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, has entered into a separate Distribution Agreement and Distribution Plan with BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BIL”), an affiliate of BlackRock. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, the Portfolios pay BIL ongoing service and distribution fees. The fees are accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates based upon the average daily net assets of the shares of each Portfolio as follows:

 

     Service
Fee
    Distribution
Fee
 

Service

   0.25 %   —    

Investor A

   0.25 %   —    

Investor B

   0.25 %   0.75 %

Investor C

   0.25 %   0.75 %

R

   0.25 %   0.25 %

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the Portfolios paid to affiliates the following fees in return for distribution and sales support services:

 

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 28,146

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     119,832

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     17,379

The Advisor maintains a call center, which is responsible for providing certain shareholder services to the Portfolios, such as responding to shareholder inquiries and processing transactions based upon instructions from shareholders with respect to the subscription and redemption of Portfolio shares. During the six months ended March 31, 2009, each Portfolio reimbursed the Advisor the following amounts for costs incurred in running the call center, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

Call Center         

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
   Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Institutional

   $ 575      —        —  

Service

     25    $ 62      —  

Investor A

     36,824      —        —  

Investor B

     —        —        —  

Investor C

     1,471      —        —  

R

     5      —      $ 16
                    

Total

   $ 38,900    $ 62    $ 16
                    

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the following charts show the various types of class specific expenses borne directly by each class of each Portfolio and any associated waivers or reimbursements of those expenses.

 

Administration Fees         

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
   Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Institutional

   $ 2,304    $ 14,466    $ 1,496

Service

     39      216      —  

Investor A

     16,607      40,554      11,440

Investor B

     1,485      5,415      808

Investor C

     1,162      9,836      906

R

     71      —        187
                    

Total

   $ 21,668    $ 70,487    $ 14,837
                    
Administration Fees Waived         

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
   Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Institutional

   $ 1,232    $ 14,466    $ 1,496

Service

     26      216      —  

Investor A

     15,779      40,554      11,440

Investor B

     1,485      5,415      808

Investor C

     1,146      9,836      906

R

     71      —        187
                    

Total

   $ 19,739    $ 70,487    $ 14,837
                    

 

34

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Service and Distribution Fees   

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
    Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Service

   $ 378    $ 2,162      

Investor A

     164,839      400,619     $ 113,897

Investor B

     58,991      215,936       31,763

Investor C

     46,306      392,966       35,518

R

     1,426            3,732
                     

Total

   $ 271,940    $ 1,011,683     $ 184,910
                     
Transfer Agent Fees        

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
    Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Institutional

   $ 20,638    $ 100,867     $ 58,309

Service

     664      1,214      

Investor A

     320,551      578,828       230,282

Investor B

     44,639      94,224       22,222

Investor C

     23,195      169,386       21,365

R

     1,509            6,264
                     

Total

   $ 411,196    $ 944,519     $ 338,442
                     
Transfer Agent Fees Waived        

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
    Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Institutional

   $ 290           

Service

     18    $ 62 )    

Investor A

     34,804           

Investor B

               

Investor C

     1,450           

R

     5          $ 16
                     

Total

   $ 36,567    $ 62     $ 16
                     
Transfer Agent Fees Reimbursed        

Share Classes

   Mid-Cap
Growth
Equity
   Mid-Cap
Value
Equity
    Small/
Mid-Cap
Growth

Institutional

   $ 2,909    $ 100,678     $ 51,437

Service

     309      626      

Investor A

     72,731      475,412       176,821

Investor B

     25,216      80,810       17,952

Investor C

     6,816      145,943       16,529

R

     1,251            5,174
                     

Total

   $ 109,232    $ 803,469     $ 267,913
                     

If within two years following a waiver or reimbursement, the operating expenses of a share class that previously received a waiver or reimbursement from the Advisor are less than the expense limit for that share class, the Advisor is entitled to be reimbursed by such share class up to the amount of fees waived or expenses reimbursed under the agreement if: (1) the Portfolio has more than $50 million in assets, (2) the Advisor or an affiliate continues to serve as the Portfolio’s investment advisor or administrator and (3) the Board has approved in advance the payments to the Advisor at the previous quarterly meeting.

At March 31, 2009, the amounts subject to possible future reimbursement under the expense limitation agreement are as follows:

 

     Expiring January 31,
     2010    2011    2012

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 157,137    $ 113,595    $ 76,309

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     1,831,805      1,878,537      284,048

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     477,871      413,315      88,919

For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Merrill Lynch, through its affiliated broker dealer, MLPF&S, earned commissions on transactions of securities as follows:

 

Mid-Cap Value Equity

   $ 127,813

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates earned underwriting discounts, direct commissions and dealer concessions on sales of each Portfolio’s Investor A Shares as follows:

 

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 1,908

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     3,498

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     964

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates received the following contingent deferred sales charges relating to transactions in Investor A, B and C Shares:

 

     Investor A    Investor B    Investor C

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $    $ 7,592    $ 1,106

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     26,638      31,775      6,656

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

          7,270      518

The Portfolios may earn income on positive cash balances in demand deposit accounts that are maintained by PNCGIS on behalf of the Portfolios. The income earned for the six months ended March 31, 2009 was as follows which is included in interest and dividends — affiliated on the Statements of Operations:

 

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 1,008

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     1,270

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     337

The Portfolios may also receive earnings credits related to cash balances with PNCGIS which are shown on the Statements of Operations as fees paid indirectly.

Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or directors of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. The Portfolios reimburse the Advisor for compensation paid to the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer.

3. Investments:

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities, were as follows:

 

     Purchases    Sales

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 40,034,529    $ 47,938,759

Mid-Cap Value Equity

     618,576,156      639,242,555

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

     40,184,990      46,534,118

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    35


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

4. Short-Term Borrowings:

The Portfolios, along with certain other funds managed by the Advisor and its affiliates, are a party to a $500 million credit agreement with a group of lenders, which expired November 2008 and was renewed until November 2009. The Portfolios may borrow under the credit agreement to fund shareholder redemptions and for other lawful purposes other than for leverage. Each Portfolio may borrow up to the maximum amount allowable under the Portfolio’s current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, subject to various other legal, regulatory or contractual limits. The Portfolios paid their pro rata share of a 0.02% upfront fee on the aggregate commitment amount based on their net assets as of October 31, 2008. The Portfolios pay a commitment fee of 0.08% per annum based on each Portfolio’s pro rata share of the unused portion of the credit agreement, which is included in miscellaneous on the Statements of Operations. Amounts borrowed under the credit agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, the higher of the (a) federal funds effective rate and (b) reserve adjusted one month LIBOR, plus, in each case, the higher of (i) 1.50% and (ii) 50% of the CDX index (as defined in the credit agreement) in effect from time to time. The Portfolios did not borrow under the credit agreement during the six months ended March 31, 2009.

5. Capital Loss Carryforward:

As of September 30, 2008, capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized capital gains through the indicated expiration dates:

 

     Expiring September 30,
     2009    2010    2011

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   $ 20,673,416    $ 99,778,499    $ 16,297,623

6. Market and Credit Risk:

In the normal course of business, the Portfolios invest in securities and enter into transactions where risks exist due to fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of the issuer of a security to meet all its obligations (credit risk). The value of securities held by the Portfolios may decline in response to certain events, including those directly involving the issuers whose securities are owned by the Portfolios; conditions affecting the general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or economic instability; and currency and interest rate and price fluctuations. Similar to credit risk, the Portfolios may be exposed to counterparty risk, or the risk that an entity with which the Portfolios have unsettled or open transactions may default. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Portfolios to credit and counterparty risks, consist principally of investments and cash due from counterparties. The extent of the Portfolios’ exposure to credit and counterparty risks with respect to these financial assets is approximated by their value recorded in the Portfolios’ Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

7. Capital Shares Transactions:

Transactions in shares for each period were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Mid-Cap Growth Equity

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   540,726     $ 3,869,655     1,151,861     $ 14,981,239  

Shares redeemed

   (564,583 )     (3,990,773 )   (4,190,156 )     (52,159,710 )
                            

Net decrease

   (23,857 )   $ (121,118 )   (3,038,295 )   $ (37,178,471 )
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   3,442     $ 24,105     4,386     $ 54,430  

Shares redeemed

   (7,563 )     (50,983 )   (13,091 )     (158,878 )
                            

Net decrease

   (4,121 )   $ (26,878 )   (8,705 )   $ (104,448 )
                            

 

36

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Mid-Cap Growth Equity (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   751,998     $ 4,917,341     1,732,544     $ 20,409,145  

Shares redeemed

   (1,872,582 )     (12,510,257 )   (3,091,741 )     (36,638,821 )
                            

Net decrease

   (1,120,584 )   $ (7,592,916 )   (1,359,197 )   $ (16,229,676 )
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   74,020     $ 443,148     133,076     $ 1,435,938  

Shares redeemed

   (637,011 )     (3,739,106 )   (1,698,317 )     (17,945,602 )
                            

Net decrease

   (562,991 )   $ (3,295,958 )   (1,565,241 )   $ (16,509,664 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   103,442     $ 614,498     193,942     $ 2,062,581  

Shares redeemed

   (254,696 )     (1,529,058 )   (347,584 )     (3,707,473 )
                            

Net decrease

   (151,254 )   $ (914,560 )   (153,642 )   $ (1,644,892 )
                            

R

        

Shares sold

   31,246     $ 209,621     116,909     $ 1,398,648  

Shares redeemed

   (20,594 )     (139,373 )   (43,304 )     (480,754 )
                            

Net increase

   10,652     $ 70,248     73,605     $ 917,894  
                            

Mid-Cap Value Equity

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   6,643,816     $ 48,052,986     8,752,224     $ 103,036,657  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   145,437       994,775     1,138,852       13,745,952  
                            

Total issued

   6,789,253       49,047,761     9,891,076       116,782,609  

Shares redeemed

   (3,805,589 )     (25,953,451 )   (5,001,036 )     (60,377,528 )
                            

Net increase

   2,983,664     $ 23,094,310     4,890,040     $ 56,405,081  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   12,162     $ 85,096     40,136     $ 472,967  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   2,305       15,491     31,430       374,020  
                            

Total issued

   14,467       100,587     71,566       846,987  

Shares redeemed

   (10,642 )     (71,023 )   (85,690 )     (1,062,724 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   3,825     $ 29,564     (14,124 )   $ (215,737 )
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    37


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Mid-Cap Value Equity (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   7,929,773     $ 54,007,110     16,797,599     $ 192,499,463  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   430,418       2,857,964     6,308,452       74,187,436  
                            

Total issued

   8,360,191       56,865,074     23,106,051       266,686,899  

Shares redeemed

   (10,668,622 )     (72,317,686 )   (20,326,790 )     (231,569,629 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (2,308,431 )   $ (15,452,612 )   2,779,261     $ 35,117,270  
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   101,529     $ 628,760     289,786     $ 3,122,722  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   56,009       339,972     1,233,901       13,350,825  
                            

Total issued

   157,538       968,732     1,523,687       16,473,547  

Shares redeemed

   (1,608,412 )     (9,829,671 )   (3,135,066 )     (33,019,875 )
                            

Net decrease

   (1,450,874 )   $ (8,860,939 )   (1,611,379 )   $ (16,546,328 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   1,135,522     $ 7,124,939     2,382,590     $ 25,347,779  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   101,409       613,484     1,839,018       19,843,040  
                            

Total issued

   1,236,931       7,738,423     4,221,608       45,190,819  

Shares redeemed

   (2,595,703 )     (16,025,319 )   (4,270,696 )     (45,189,018 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (1,358,772 )   $ (8,286,896 )   (49,088 )   $ 1,801  
                            

Small/Mid-Cap Growth

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   386,432     $ 3,093,188     381,949     $ 5,685,288  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   3,062       23,788     242,216       3,611,440  
                            

Total issued

   389,494       3,116,976     624,165       9,296,728  

Shares redeemed

   (334,839 )     (2,651,806 )   (661,695 )     (10,305,119 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   54,655     $ 465,170     (37,530 )   $ (1,008,391 )
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   1,682,381     $ 12,825,098     3,211,416     $ 44,154,763  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   18,736       136,024     2,499,681       34,895,558  
                            

Total issued

   1,701,117       12,961,122     5,711,097       79,050,321  

Shares redeemed

   (2,517,967 )     (19,128,556 )   (5,887,993 )     (77,983,235 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (816,850 )   $ (6,167,434 )   (176,896 )   $ 1,067,086  
                            

 

38

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Small/Mid-Cap Growth (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   35,271     $ 225,964     54,581     $ 640,182  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       281,240       3,369,265  
                            

Total issued

   35,271       225,964     335,821       4,009,447  

Shares redeemed

   (252,261 )     (1,637,660 )   (622,199 )     (7,246,568 )
                            

Net decrease

   (216,990 )   $ (1,411,696 )   (286,378 )   $ (3,237,121 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   107,014     $ 690,838     246,547     $ 2,833,038  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       231,789       2,781,470  
                            

Total issued

   107,014       690,838     478,336       5,614,508  

Shares redeemed

   (282,942 )     (1,885,202 )   (392,905 )     (4,547,481 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (175,928 )   $ (1,194,364 )   85,431     $ 1,067,027  
                            

R

        

Shares sold

   79,213     $ 599,451     132,367     $ 1,779,872  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   166       1,194     16,009       221,879  
                            

Total issued

   79,379       600,645     148,376       2,001,751  

Shares redeemed

   (24,044 )     (176,224 )   (36,514 )     (482,161 )
                            

Net increase

   55,335     $ 424,421     111,862     $ 1,519,590  
                            

There is a 2% redemption fee on shares of certain Portfolios redeemed or exchanged which have been held for 30 days or less. The redemption fees are collected and retained by the Portfolio for the benefit of the remaining shareholders. The redemption fees are recorded as a credit to paid-in capital.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    39


Officers and Trustees

Ronald W. Forbes, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

Rodney D. Johnson, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

David O. Beim, Trustee

Dr. Matina Horner, Trustee

Herbert I. London, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Cynthia A. Montgomery, Trustee

Joseph P. Platt, Jr., Trustee

Robert C. Robb, Jr., Trustee

Toby Rosenblatt, Trustee

Kenneth L. Urish, Chairman of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Frederick W. Winter, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Richard S. Davis, Trustee

Henry Gabbay, Trustee

Donald C. Burke, Fund President and Chief Executive Officer

Anne F. Ackerley, Vice President

Neal J. Andrews, Chief Financial Officer

Jay M. Fife, Treasurer

Brian P. Kindelan, Chief Compliance Officer of the Fund

Howard Surloff, Secretary

Investment Advisor and Co-Administrator

BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Wilmington, DE 19809

Custodian

PFPC Trust Company

Philadelphia, PA 19153

Co-Administrator and Transfer Agent

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc.

Wilmington, DE 19809

Distributor

BlackRock Investments, LLC

New York, NY 10022

Legal Counsel

Sidley Austin LLP

New York, NY 10019

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Address of the Portfolios

100 Bellevue Parkway

Wilmington, DE 19809

 

40

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Additional Information

BlackRock Privacy Principles

BlackRock is committed to maintaining the privacy of its current and former fund investors and individual clients (collectively, “Clients”) and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information BlackRock collects, how we protect that information and why in certain cases we share such information with select parties.

If you are located in a jurisdiction where specific laws, rules or regulations require BlackRock to provide you with additional or different privacy-related rights beyond what is set forth below, then BlackRock will comply with those specific laws, rules or regulations.

BlackRock obtains or verifies personal non-public information from and about you from different sources, including the following: (i) information we receive from you or, if applicable, your financial intermediary, on applications, forms or other documents; (ii) information about your transactions with us, our affiliates, or others; (iii) information we receive from a consumer reporting agency; and (iv) from visits to our websites.

BlackRock does not sell or disclose to non-affiliated third parties any non-public personal information about its Clients, except as permitted by law or as is necessary to respond to regulatory requests or to service Client accounts. These non-affiliated third parties are required to protect the confidentiality and security of this information and to use it only for its intended purpose.

We may share information with our affiliates to service your account or to provide you with information about other BlackRock products or services that may be of interest to you. In addition, BlackRock restricts access to non-public personal information about its Clients to those BlackRock employees with a legitimate business need for the information. BlackRock maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that are designed to protect the non-public personal information of its Clients, including procedures relating to the proper storage and disposal of such information.

Availability of Additional Information

Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available on the Fund’s website or shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications of quarterly statements, annual and semi-annual reports and prospectuses by enrolling in the Fund’s electronic delivery program.

To enroll:

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts with Investment Advisors, Banks or Brokerages:

Please contact your financial advisor. Please note that not all investment advisors, banks or brokerages may offer this service.

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts Directly With BlackRock

 

1) Access the BlackRock website at

http://www.blackrock.com/edelivery

 

2) Click on the applicable link and follow the steps to sign up

 

3) Log into your account

Householding

The Fund will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including prospectuses, annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and it is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your shareholder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please contact the Fund at (800) 441-7762.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    41


Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available (1) without charge, upon request by calling (800) 441-7762; (2) at www.blackrock.com; and (3) on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Proxy Voting Record

Information about how the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolios during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request and without charge (1) at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 441-7762 (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at http:// www.sec.gov and may also 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 (800) SEC-0330. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling (800) 441-7762.

Shareholder Privileges

Account Information

Call us at (800) 441-7762 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST Monday through Friday to get information about your account balances, recent transactions and share prices. You can also reach us on the Web at www.blackrock.com/funds.

Automatic Investment Plans

Investor Class shareholders who want to invest regularly can arrange to have $50 or more automatically deducted from their checking or savings account and invested in any of the BlackRock portfolios.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan

Investor Class shareholders can establish a systematic withdrawal plan and receive periodic payments of $50 or more from their BlackRock portfolios, as long as their account is at least $10,000.

Retirement Plans

Shareholders may make investments in conjunction with Traditional, Rollover, Roth, Coverdell, Simple IRA’s, SEP IRA’s and 403(b) Plans.

 

42

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A World-Class Mutual Fund Family

BlackRock offers a diverse lineup of open-end mutual funds crossing all investment styles and managed by experts in equity, fixed income and tax-exempt investing.

 

Equity Funds

BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio

 

BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Asset Allocation Portfolio†

 

BlackRock Global SmallCap Fund

 

BlackRock Mid Cap Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Aurora Portfolio

 

BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

 

BlackRock Natural Resources Trust

BlackRock Balanced Capital Fund†

 

BlackRock Healthcare Fund

 

BlackRock Pacific Fund

BlackRock Basic Value Fund

 

BlackRock Index Equity Portfolio*

 

BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio

 

BlackRock International Fund

 

BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

 

BlackRock International Diversification Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Equity Dividend Fund

 

BlackRock International Index Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock EuroFund

 

BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio

 

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Fund II

BlackRock Focus Growth Fund

 

BlackRock International Value Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Index Fund

BlackRock Focus Value Fund

 

BlackRock Large Cap Core Fund

 

BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Fundamental Growth Fund

 

BlackRock Large Cap Core Plus Fund

 

BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

BlackRock Global Allocation Fund†

 

BlackRock Large Cap Growth Fund

 

BlackRock S&P 500 Index Fund

BlackRock Global Dynamic Equity Fund

 

BlackRock Large Cap Value Fund

 

BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Global Emerging Markets Fund

 

BlackRock Latin America Fund

 

BlackRock Utilities and Telecommunications Fund

BlackRock Global Financial Services Fund

 

BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

 

BlackRock Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Global Growth Fund

   

Fixed Income Funds

BlackRock Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Income Builder Portfolio

 

BlackRock Short-Term Bond Fund

BlackRock Emerging Market Debt Portfolio

 

BlackRock Inflation Protected Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Strategic Income Portfolio

BlackRock Enhanced Income Portfolio

 

BlackRock Intermediate Government Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Total Return Fund

BlackRock GNMA Portfolio

   

BlackRock Total Return Portfolio II

BlackRock Government Income Portfolio

 

BlackRock International Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock World Income Fund

BlackRock High Income Fund

 

BlackRock Long Duration Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock High Yield Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Low Duration Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Income Portfolio

 

BlackRock Managed Income Portfolio

 

Municipal Bond Funds

BlackRock AMT-Free Municipal Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock Kentucky Municipal Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock New York Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock California Municipal Bond Fund

 

BlackRock Municipal Insured Fund

 

BlackRock Ohio Municipal Bond Portfolio

BlackRock Delaware Municipal Bond Portfolio

 

BlackRock National Municipal Fund

 

BlackRock Pennsylvania Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock High Yield Municipal Fund

 

BlackRock New Jersey Municipal Bond Fund

 

BlackRock Short-Term Municipal Fund

BlackRock Intermediate Municipal Fund

   

Target Risk & Target Date Funds

BlackRock Prepared Portfolios

 

BlackRock Lifecycle Prepared Portfolios

 

Conservative Prepared Portfolio

 

Prepared Portfolio 2010

 

Prepared Portfolio 2030

Moderate Prepared Portfolio

 

Prepared Portfolio 2015

 

Prepared Portfolio 2035

Growth Prepared Portfolio

 

Prepared Portfolio 2020

 

Prepared Portfolio 2040

Aggressive Growth Prepared Portfolio

 

Prepared Portfolio 2025

 

Prepared Portfolio 2045

   

Prepared Portfolio 2050

 

* See the prospectus for information on specific limitations on investments in the fund.

 

Mixed asset fund.

BlackRock mutual funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. You should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the funds under consideration carefully before investing. Each fund’s prospectus contains this and other information and is available at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 882-0052 or from your financial advisor. The prospectus should be read carefully before investing.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    43


LOGO

This report is transmitted to shareholders only. It is not authorized for use as an offer of sale or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Portfolios unless accompanied or preceded by the Portfolios’ current prospectus. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. Investment returns and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change.

Investment in foreign securities involves special risks including fluctuating foreign exchange rates, foreign government regulations, differing degrees of liquidity and the possibility of substantial volatility due to adverse political, economic or other developments.

LOGO

EQUITY4-3/09-SAR


EQUITIES    FIXED INCOME    REAL ESTATE    LIQUIDITY    ALTERNATIVES    BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS

BlackRock FundsSM    LOGO
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT  |  MARCH 31, 2009 (UNAUDITED)

BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

NOT FDIC INSURED

MAY LOSE VALUE

NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

 

     Page
A Letter to Shareholders    3

Semi-Annual Report:

  
Portfolio Summaries    4
About Portfolio Performance    14
Disclosure of Expenses    15
Financial Statements:   

Schedules of Investments

   16

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

   35

Statements of Operations

   37

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

   38
Financial Highlights    40
Notes to Financial Statements    54
Officers and Trustees    67
Additional Information    68
Mutual Fund Family    70

 

2

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A Letter to Shareholders

The past 12 months have been a period investors would like to forget, but instead will vividly remember, as the global financial crisis erupted into the worst recession in decades. Daily headlines recounted the downfalls of storied financial firms, volatile swings in the world’s financial markets and monumental government actions, including the recent passage of the nearly $800 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The economic data generally deteriorated throughout the reporting period. US gross domestic product (“GDP”) contracted at an annual rate of 6.3% in the fourth quarter of 2008, and economic activity appears on pace to be negative in the first quarter of 2009 as well. The Federal Reserve Board (the “Fed”) took forceful action to revive the global economy and ailing financial system. In addition to slashing the federal funds target rate from 3.0% to a record low range of 0% to 0.25%, the central bank provided enormous cash infusions and radically expanded its balance sheet through a range of lending and acquisition programs.

Against this backdrop, US equities contended with high levels of volatility and posted steep losses, notwithstanding a powerful rally in the final month of the reporting period. International markets also experienced sharp downturns, with some regions declining as much or more than the United States. Risk aversion remained the dominant theme in fixed income markets, as investors sought out the haven of Treasury issues at the expense of virtually all other asset classes. High yield issues, in particular, faced unprecedented challenges and posted severe underperformance; that said, the sector pared its losses in the first quarter of 2009, as both liquidity and investor sentiment toward lower-quality debt improved. At the same time, the start of the new year brought somewhat of a return to normalcy for the tax-exempt market, which registered one of its worst years on record in 2008.

In all, investors continued to gravitate toward relative safety, as evidenced in the six- and 12-month returns of the major benchmark indexes:

 

Total Returns as of March 31, 2009

   6-month     12-month  

US equities (S&P 500 Index)

   (30.54 )%   (38.09 )%

Small cap US equities (Russell 2000 Index)

   (37.17 )   (37.50 )

International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index)

   (31.11 )   (46.50 )

US Treasury securities (Merrill Lynch 10-Year US Treasury Index)

   11.88     10.46  

Taxable fixed income (Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index)

   4.70     3.13  

Tax-exempt fixed income (Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index)

   5.00     2.27  

High yield bonds (Barclays Capital US Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index)

   (12.65 )   (18.56 )

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.

Through periods of market turbulence, as ever, BlackRock’s full resources are dedicated to the management of our clients’ assets. We thank you for entrusting BlackRock with your investments and look forward to continuing to serve you in the months and years ahead.

 

Sincerely,

 

LOGO    
Rob Kapito    
President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC    

Seeking additional investment insights?

Visit BlackRock’s award-winning Shareholder® magazine, now available exclusively online at www.blackrock.com/shareholdermagazine. In this issue:

 

   

Discover why portfolio diversification still matters – even as nearly every financial asset class lost value over the past year.

 

   

Learn how adding commodities to a more traditional mix of assets can help you to balance risks and access new potential rewards.

 

   

Assuage your fears about higher taxes and discover how municipal bonds may offer some relief.

 

   

Find out if there’s still value to be found in dividend-paying stocks.

THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT

 

         3


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Global Opportunities Portfolio
Portfolio Management Commentary   

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the benchmark S&P Global Broad Market Index (BMI) for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

The Portfolio benefited from both stock selection and sector allocation decisions. Stock selection proved most favorable in the financials, healthcare and materials sectors. Despite financials being the worst-performing sector on an absolute return basis, it was a strong contributor to the Portfolio’s relative strength versus the benchmark over the past six months. This was due in part to the Portfolio’s underweight in real estate stocks and strong stock selection within the diversified banks and property casualty & insurance sub-industries. Other meaningful contributors included an overweight in healthcare, favorable positioning among biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and an overweight exposure to gold mining stocks within the materials sector.

 

   

Notable weakness came from the energy sector due to an underweight in integrated oil companies, which were more defensive in a declining commodity price environment, and worse-than-benchmark performance amongst the Portfolio’s oil & gas drilling holdings. Other sources of relative weakness could be attributable to an underweight and stock selection within the telecommunication services and utilities sectors and underperformance of the Portfolio’s food, beverage and tobacco positions.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

During the first half of the reporting period, Portfolio activity focused primarily on maintaining a quality bias, with overweights to defensive sectors such as healthcare and consumer staples. While we believe it is still too early to call a definitive turn in the markets, we have been adding back cyclical risks over the past several months, while taking profits in defensive names. As a result, allocations have shifted more recently back into the information technology (IT), energy, financials and materials sectors. Within the developed markets, we added exposure to Japan while trimming allocations to Europe. We also slightly increased exposure to emerging markets, primarily within the Asia Pacific region.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio was overweight relative to the benchmark in energy, financials, consumer discretionary and IT, and underweight in healthcare, consumer staples, materials, industrials, telecommunication services and utilities.

 

   

As earnings visibility remains poor, it is our intention at this time to generate alpha primarily through individual stock picking and sound risk management practices. We believe it is risk appropriate to have a relatively balanced portfolio that is neither too aggressively nor too defensively positioned. This is reflected in our active sector bets, as most of them are within approximately 200 basis points (2.00%) of the benchmark.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

   2 %

Wyeth

   2  

Roche Holding AG - ADR

   1  

Pfizer, Inc.

   1  

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - ADR

   1  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   1  

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.

   1  

Toyota Motor Corp.

   1  

Amgen, Inc.

   1  

Bharti Tele-Ventures Ltd.

   1  

 

Geographic Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

United States

   46 %

Japan

   8  

United Kingdom

   7  

Canada

   5  

France

   4  

Taiwan

   3  

Switzerland

   2  

Germany

   2  

China

   2  

Norway

   2  

Australia

   2  

Singapore

   2  

Spain

   2  

South Korea

   2  

India

   1  

South Africa

   1  

Hong Kong

   1  

Italy

   1  

Sweden

   1  

Austria

   1  

Belgium

   1  

Brazil

   1  

Mexico

   1  

Luxembourg

   1  

Netherlands

   1  

 

4

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


   Global Opportunities Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

  

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio will invest, under normal market conditions, at least 40% of its total assets in issuers located outside of the US. The Portfolio may invest up to 25% of its total assets in stocks of issuers in emerging market countries. The Portfolio may also invest up to 25% of its total assets in global fixed income securities, including emerging market debt.

 

3 The all-encompassing S&P Global index is known as the S&P Global Broad Market Index (BMI). The BMI measures the performance of the entire universe of investable securities greater than USD 100 million. The BMI is segmented into two size components: the Primary Market Index (PMI), and the Extended Market Index (EMI). The PMI defines the large-cap universe, representing the top 80% of BMI market capitalization for each listed country. The EMI defines the small-cap universe for each country, representing the remaining 20%.

 

4 Commencement of operations.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns5  
           1 Year     From Inception6  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (29.67 )%   (39.92 )%   N/A     (8.94 )%   N/A  

Investor A

   (29.94 )   (40.24 )   (43.36 )%   (9.27 )   (10.80 )%

Investor B

   (30.52 )   (41.02 )   (43.67 )   (10.06 )   (10.88 )

Investor C

   (30.55 )   (41.06 )   (41.64 )   (10.08 )   (10.08 )

S&P Global Broad Market Index (BMI)

   (30.96 )   (43.24 )   N/A     (11.99 )   N/A  

 

5 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 14 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

 

6 The Portfolio commenced operations on January 31, 2006.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical8
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period7
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period7

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 703.30    $ 5.73    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.18    $ 6.82

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 700.60    $ 7.00    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.67    $ 8.33

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 694.80    $ 10.14    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,012.88    $ 12.12

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 694.50    $ 10.14    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,012.88    $ 12.12

 

7 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.35% for Institutional, 1.65% for Investor A, 2.40% for Investor B and 2.40% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

8 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 15 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    5


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the broad-market S&P 500 Index and its sector benchmarks, the Lipper Health/Biotechnology Funds Index and the Russell 3000 Health Care Index, for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Both stock selection and sub-sector allocation decisions contributed positively to relative return comparisons over the past six months. Selection was strongest within the medical equipment & supplies sub-sector as stocks like DiaSorin S.p.A., Boston Scientific Corp., and Sonova Holding AG posted double-digit returns. We also had good selection in the healthcare distributors and life sciences tools & services sub-industries. While an overweight in biotechnology was mainly the result of finding attractive opportunities at the individual company level, the group outperformed the benchmark and was a source of relative strength from the sub-sector allocation perspective.

 

   

The greatest source of weakness on a relative basis, but strongest absolute performer, was the pharmaceutical sub-sector. An underweight compared with the large benchmark exposure hindered results in an environment when investors tended to favor its defensive qualities; selection within the group also detracted somewhat. While we owned shares in Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Merck & Co. and Abbott Laboratories, underweights to their benchmark weights hurt relative returns. Outside of pharmaceuticals, relative weakness came from stock selection within biotechnology, an overweight exposure to medical devices & supplies, and selection with the healthcare supplies sub-industry, most notably a position in Alcon.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

From an industry standpoint, exposure to biotechnology declined as we trimmed some of the Portfolio’s larger holdings. We also reduced the Portfolio’s allocation to medical devices & supplies after cutting the size of several healthcare equipment positions. The proceeds from these sales have since been redeployed into life sciences tools & services companies, as well as small additions among managed care and healthcare services names. Similarly, pharmaceuticals exposure has increased as a result of additions to large caps such as Abbott Laboratories, Merck, Pfizer and Wyeth.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio was slightly overweight relative to the Russell 3000 Health Care Index in biotechnology, medical devices & supplies and healthcare services. Conversely, despite recent additions, the Portfolio remains underweight in pharmaceuticals, which make up nearly half the weight of the benchmark.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Wyeth

   7 %

Amgen, Inc.

   6  

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.

   4  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

   4  

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

   4  

Abbott Laboratories

   4  

CVS Caremark Corp.

   4  

Johnson & Johnson

   4  

Pfizer, Inc.

   3  

Alcon, Inc.

   3  

 

Industry Representation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Pharmaceuticals

   31 %

Health Care Equipment & Supplies

   24  

Health Care Providers & Services

   19  

Biotechnology

   18  

Life Sciences Tools & Services

   4  

Food & Staples Retailing

   4  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

6

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


   Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

  

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 Under normal market conditions, the Portfolio invests at least 80% of total assets in securities of companies in health sciences and related industries.

 

3 This unmanaged index covers 500 industrial, utility, transportation and financial companies of the US markets (mostly NYSE issues) representing about 75% of NYSE market capitalization and 30% of NYSE issues. S&P 500 is a trademark of the McGraw-Hill Companies.

 

4 An equally weighted index of typically the 30 largest mutual funds within its respective investment objective.

 

5 An unmanaged index representative of companies involved in medical services or health care in the Russell 3000 Index, which is comprised of the 3,000 largest US companies as determined by total market capitalization.

 

6 Commencement of operations.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns7  
           1 Year     5 Years     From Inception8  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (17.63 )%   (14.97 )%   N/A     5.26 %   N/A     12.65 %   N/A  

Service

   (17.79 )   (15.32 )   N/A     4.97     N/A     12.35     N/A  

Investor A

   (17.80 )   (15.34 )   (19.77 )%   4.91     3.79 %   12.32     11.67 %

Investor B

   (18.13 )   (15.99 )   (19.40 )   4.10     3.77     11.56     11.56  

Investor C

   (18.09 )   (15.88 )   (16.64 )   4.18     4.18     11.54     11.54  

S&P 500 Index

   (30.54 )   (38.09 )   N/A     (4.77 )   N/A     (4.45 )   N/A  

Lipper Health/Biotechnology Funds Index

   (20.53 )   (18.69 )   N/A     (0.35 )   N/A     3.40     N/A  

Russell 3000 Health Care Index

   (19.97 )   (20.13 )   N/A     (2.67 )   N/A     0.20     N/A  

 

7 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 14 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

 

8 The Portfolio commenced operations on December 21, 1999.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical10
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period9
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period9

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 823.70    $ 4.68    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.80    $ 5.20

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 822.10    $ 6.31    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.98    $ 7.02

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 822.00    $ 6.45    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.83    $ 7.17

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 818.70    $ 10.02    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.84    $ 11.16

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 819.10    $ 9.57    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.35    $ 10.65

 

9 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.03% for Institutional, 1.39% for Service, 1.42% for Investor A, 2.21% for Investor B and 2.11% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

10 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 15 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    7


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    International Opportunities Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the benchmark S&P Global Ex-U.S. Broad Market Index (BMI) for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Strong stock selection benefited the Portfolio, led by results within the financials, materials and industrials sectors. Despite financials being the worst-performing sector on an absolute return basis, it was the strongest contributor to the Portfolio’s relative strength versus the benchmark over the past six months. This was due mainly to an underweight in and good selection among banks, in combination with strong stock selection within the investment-banking & brokerage and property casualty & insurance sub-industries. Positive allocation effects and performance within the materials sector that far outpaced benchmark comparisons was also a large source of alpha. This was due in part to an overweight in gold and good results within the diversified metals & mining sub-industry.

 

   

By contrast, allocation decisions detracted overall. Notable weakness came from the energy sector, due to an underweight in integrated oil companies, which were more defensive in a declining commodity price environment, and overall steeper declines in the Portfolio’s holdings than those represented by the benchmark. Further weakness was attributed to underweights in the information technology (IT) and telecommunication services sectors.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

While we believe it is still too early to call a definitive turn in the markets, we have been adding back cyclical areas of the market over the past several months, while taking profits in higher quality, defensive names. As a result, sector weighting has shifted away from areas like utilities and consumer staples, and into the likes of IT, energy and materials. Geographically, we added Asian exposure, including within Japan and the developing markets. Sources of these funds came from Eastern Europe and the Portfolio’s cash position.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At the end of the period, the Portfolio was overweight relative to the benchmark in energy, financials, consumer discretionary and materials, and underweight in utilities, healthcare, IT, consumer staples and industrials.

 

   

As earnings visibility remains poor, it is our intention at this time to generate alpha primarily through individual stock picking and sound risk management practices. We believe it is risk appropriate to have a relatively balanced portfolio that is neither too aggressively nor too defensively positioned. This is reflected in our active sector bets, as most of them are within approximately 200 basis points (2.00%) of the benchmark.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

   2 %

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - ADR

   1  

Eldorado Gold Corp.

   1  

Rhoen Klinikum AG

   1  

Total SA

   1  

Vodafone Group Plc

   1  

Nestle SA

   1  

Toyota Motor Corp.

   1  

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China - Class H - ADR

   1  

China Construction Bank Corp. - Class H

   1  

 

Geographic Allocation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

United Kingdom

   18 %

Japan

   14  

Germany

   8  

Canada

   8  

France

   6  

Taiwan

   5  

Switzerland

   4  

Hong Kong

   4  

China

   3  

Brazil

   3  

Australia

   3  

Spain

   2  

Netherlands

   2  

Italy

   2  

South Korea

   2  

Norway

   2  

India

   2  

Luxembourg

   2  

Thailand

   1  

Singapore

   1  

South Africa

   1  

Austria

   1  

Sweden

   1  

Papua New Guinea

   1  

Philippines

   1  

Belgium

   1  

Mexico

   1  

Israel

   1  

 

8

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


   International Opportunities Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

  

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio under normal market conditions, invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities issued by international companies of any market capitalization.

 

3 S&P Global Ex-U.S. Broad Market Index (BMI) is an available market capitalization weighted equity index made up of 52 global developed and emerging markets, not including the US. The BMI is segmented into two size components: the S&P LargeMidCap Index and the S&P SmallCap Index.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns5  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (28.86 )%   (46.71 )%   N/A     4.09 %   N/A     13.40 %   N/A  

Service

   (28.97 )   (46.88 )   N/A     3.78     N/A     13.03     N/A  

Investor A

   (28.99 )   (46.90 )   (49.69 )%   3.74     2.63 %   12.95     12.34 %

Investor B

   (29.29 )   (47.32 )   (49.69 )   2.93     2.64     12.28     12.28  

Investor C

   (29.26 )   (47.30 )   (47.83 )   2.96     2.96     12.12     12.12  

S&P Global Ex-US Broad Market Index (BMI)

   (30.42 )   (46.59 )   N/A     (0.17 )   N/A     1.55     N/A  

 

5 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 14 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical7
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period6
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period6

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 711.40    $ 6.02    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.88    $ 7.12

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 710.30    $ 7.46    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.16    $ 8.84

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 710.10    $ 7.67    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,015.91    $ 9.09

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 707.10    $ 11.19    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,011.72    $ 13.28

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 707.40    $ 10.98    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,011.97    $ 13.03

 

6 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.41% for Institutional, 1.75% for Service, 1.80% for Investor A, 2.63% for Investor B and 2.58% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

7 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 15 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    9


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

  

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

The Portfolio’s Institutional, Service and Investor A shares outperformed the benchmark NYSE Arca Tech 100 Index for the six-month period. The Portfolio’s Class R shares performed in line with the index, while Investor B and Investor C shares lagged the index.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Allocation decisions benefited return comparisons over the reporting period. Within the information technology (IT) segment of the portfolio, overweights in semiconductors and systems software and underweights in application software were sources of relative strength. Outside of IT, allocation effects were also positive for the healthcare, telecommunication services and industrials sectors. Security selection within the IT sector was also positive. In particular, positioning within semiconductors, application software and office electronics boosted comparisons relative to the benchmark. Names like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, NetLogic Microsystems Inc. and National Semiconductor Corp. all fell substantially less than their peers.

 

   

Sources of relative weakness were most prominently the result of weaker selection effects within the healthcare and industrials sectors. Within healthcare, the Portfolio’s positioning in biotechnology was the largest detractor from comparative results, most notably due to exposure to Celera Corp. (-50.61%). Additionally, weaker results were found within the internet software & services (specifically Baidu, Digital River and SINA) and computer hardware (namely an underweight in Apple and overweight in Hewlett-Packard) sub-industries.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

During the six months, we added to the Portfolio’s IT exposure, primarily within the semiconductors sub-industry. Conversely, within healthcare, the Portfolio’s weight in biotechnology decreased as names like Genentech and Genzyme Corp. were eliminated. Outside of IT and healthcare, we reduced exposure to industrials holdings, finishing the period with a minimal weight in the sector.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio maintained an active overweight in the IT sector given our intentions to add back more cyclical risks over the past several months, at the expense of underweighting healthcare. The semiconductors sub-industry represents the largest overweight within IT, with nearly twice the weighting of the benchmark. Conversely, smaller underweights relative to the benchmark are held across the computer hardware, data processing & outsourced services and application software sub-industries.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Apple, Inc.

   4 %

International Business Machines Corp.

   4  

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   4  

Amgen, Inc.

   3  

Applied Materials, Inc.

   3  

Intel Corp.

   2  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

   2  

Oracle Corp.

   2  

Medtronic, Inc.

   2  

McAfee, Inc.

   2  

 

Industry Representation

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment

   24 %

Software

   19  

Computers & Peripherals

   12  

Communications Equipment

   11  

Internet Software & Services

   9  

Biotechnology

   6  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies

   6  

Diversified Telecommunication Services

   3  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components

   2  

Pharmaceuticals

   2  

Aerospace & Defense

   1  

Wireless Telecommunication Services

   1  

Office Electronics

   1  

IT Services

   1  

Food & Staples Retailing

   1  

Internet & Catalog Retail

   1  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

10

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio will invest primarily in equity securities of US and non-US companies in all capitalization ranges selected for their rapid and sustainable growth potential from the development, advancement and use of science and/or technology.

 

3 A price-weighted index comprised of not more than 100 individual stocks listed on the NYSE, AMEX or NASDAQ. The index is modeled to represent a broad spectrum of companies engaged principally in manufacturing products and/or providing services within technology fields.

 

4 Commencement of operations.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

     6-Month
Total Returns
    Average Annual Total Returns5  
     1 Year     5 Years     From Inception6  
     w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (21.20 )%   (29.12 )%   N/A     (2.59 )%   N/A     (6.51 )%   N/A  

Service

   (21.32 )   (29.33 )   N/A     (2.91 )   N/A     (6.80 )   N/A  

Investor A

   (21.40 )   (29.47 )   (33.21 )%   (2.97 )   (4.01 )%   (6.92 )   (7.48 )%

Investor B

   (21.75 )   (30.07 )   (33.22 )   (3.79 )   (4.18 )   (7.58 )   (7.58 )

Investor C

   (21.62 )   (29.97 )   (30.67 )   (3.79 )   (3.79 )   (7.66 )   (7.66 )

R

   (21.52 )   (29.76 )   N/A     (3.36 )   N/A     (7.25 )   N/A  

NYSE Arca Tech 100 Index

   (21.54 )   (26.43 )   N/A     (2.51 )   N/A     (5.21 )   N/A  

 

5 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 14 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

 

6 The Portfolio commenced operations on May 15, 2000.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical8
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period7
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period7

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 788.00    $ 6.02    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.18    $ 6.82

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 786.80    $ 7.71    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.27    $ 8.73

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 786.00    $ 7.79    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,016.16    $ 8.84

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 782.50    $ 11.78    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,011.62    $ 13.38

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 783.80    $ 11.79    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,011.62    $ 13.38

R

   $ 1,000.00    $ 784.80    $ 9.48    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.25    $ 10.75

 

7 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.35% for Institutional, 1.73% for Service, 1.75% for Investor A, 2.65% for Investor B, 2.65% for Investor C and 2.13% for R), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

8 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 15 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    11


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

Portfolio Management Commentary

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

As part of a broader rebranding of its indices, Standard & Poor’s changed the name of the S&P Citigroup Extended Market Index (EMI) US to the S&P US MidSmall Cap Index, effective October 1, 2008.

 

   

The Portfolio outperformed the benchmark S&P US MidSmall Cap Index for the six-month period.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

The Portfolio benefited from strong stock selection, led by results within the information technology (IT), consumer discretionary and financials sectors. Our positioning within and decision to overweight the semiconductors sub-industry within IT was a meaningful source of alpha. As well, despite financials being the second worst-performing sector on an absolute return basis, it was a strong contributor to the Portfolio’s relative strength over the past six months. This was due to our favorable allocations to banks during the period, underweight in real estate and strong stock selection within the asset management and investment-banking sub-industries.

 

   

While allocation effects were mixed overall, weaker results could be found within the energy, IT and utilities sector. Within energy, our decision to overweight the coal & consumable fuels as well as the oil & gas exploration & production sub-industries, were a drag on results as the commodities complex remained under pressure for most of the time period. Names like Arch Coal Inc., Chesapeake Energy Corp. and Forest Oil Corp. all fell substantially due to deteriorating supply/demand fundamentals and investor risk-aversion. Relative return comparisons were also hurt by underweights in consumer staples, utilities and IT, which held up better than the overall market.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

While we believe it is still too early to call a definitive turn in the markets, we have been adding back cyclical risks over the past several months while taking profits in high quality, defensive names. As a result, allocations have shifted away from areas like utilities and consumer staples, while into the likes of IT, financials, consumer discretionary and materials.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At period-end, the Portfolio was overweight relative to the benchmark in energy and financials, and underweight in utilities, consumer staples, healthcare, consumer discretionary and industrials.

 

   

As earnings visibility remains poor, it is our intention at this time to generate alpha primarily through individual stock picking and sound risk management practices. We believe it is risk appropriate to have a relatively balanced portfolio that is neither too aggressively nor too defensively positioned. This is reflected in our active sector bets, as most of them are within approximately 200 basis points (2.00%) of the benchmark.

The views expressed reflect the opinions of BlackRock as of the date of this report and are subject to change based on changes in market, economic or other conditions. These views are not intended to be a forecast of future events and are no guarantee of future results.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

DaVita, Inc.

   2 %

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

   1  

Liberty Media Corp. - Entertainment - Series A

   1  

Beckman Coulter, Inc.

   1  

Crown Holdings, Inc.

   1  

Sybase, Inc.

   1  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

   1  

Airgas, Inc.

   1  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

   1  

PMC-Sierra, Inc.

   1  

Sectors

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Financials

   19 %

Information Technology

   18  

Consumer Discretionary

   15  

Industrials

   13  

Health Care

   11  

Energy

   8  

Materials

   6  

Consumer Staples

   5  

Utilities

   3  

Telecommunication Services

   2  

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s sector classifications refer to any one or more of the sector sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine sector sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

12

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment

LOGO

 

1 Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional Shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2 The Portfolio normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities issued by US emerging capitalization companies with relatively attractive earnings growth potential and valuation.

 

3 An unmanaged index comprised of smaller-capitalization US stocks representing the bottom 30% of available market capital, with a minimum market capitalization of at least $100 million.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

     6-Month
Total Returns
    Average Annual Total Returns4  
     1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
    w / o sales
charge
    w / sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (28.35 )%   (33.92 )%   N/A     2.25 %   N/A     8.29 %   N/A  

Service

   (28.52 )   (34.22 )   N/A     1.88     N/A     7.90     N/A  

Investor A

   (28.56 )   (34.25 )   (37.69 )%   1.81     0.72 %   7.80     7.22 %

Investor B

   (28.75 )   (34.71 )   (37.64 )   1.06     0.68     7.17     7.17  

Investor C

   (28.78 )   (34.70 )   (35.35 )   1.06     1.06     7.01     7.01  

S&P US Mid Small Cap Index

   (35.50 )   (40.81 )   N/A     (4.49 )   N/A     3.05     N/A  

 

4 Assuming maximum sales charges. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 14 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical6
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period5

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 716.50    $ 4.28    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.95    $ 5.05

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 714.80    $ 6.20    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.68    $ 7.32

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 714.40    $ 6.50    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,017.33    $ 7.67

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 712.50    $ 9.61    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.64    $ 11.36

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 712.20    $ 9.60    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,013.64    $ 11.36

 

5 For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (1.00% for Institutional, 1.45% for Service, 1.52% for Investor A, 2.25% for Investor B and 2.25% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

6 Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 15 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    13


About Portfolios’ Performance

 

   

Institutional Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge and are available only to eligible investors. These shares bear no ongoing distribution or service fees.

 

   

Service Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end load) of 5.25% and a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 4.50% declining to 0% after six years. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. These shares automatically convert to Investor A Shares after approximately eight years. (There is no initial sales charge for automatic share conversions.) All returns for periods greater than eight years reflect this conversion.

 

   

Investor C Shares are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within one year of purchase. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year.

 

   

R Shares are not subject to any initial sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.25% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. R Shares are available only to certain retirement and other similar plans.

Performance information reflects past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Refer to www.blackrock.com/funds to obtain performance data current to the most recent month-end. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. Each Portfolio may charge a 2% redemption fee for sales or exchanges of shares within 30 days of purchase or exchange. Performance data does not reflect this potential fee. Figures shown in the performance tables on the previous pages assume reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, if any, at net asset value on the ex-dividend date. Investment return and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each class of shares will vary because of the different levels of service, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid to shareholders.

The performance information on the previous pages includes information for each class of each Portfolio since the commencement of operations of such Portfolio, rather than the date such class was introduced. Performance information for each class introduced after the commencement of operations of a Portfolio is therefore based on the performance history of a predecessor class adjusted to reflect the class specific fees applicable to each class at the time of the launch of such share class. This information may be considered when assessing a Portfolio’s performance, but does not represent the actual performance of this share class.

Performance for the Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio for the periods prior to January 31, 2005 is based on performance of certain former State Street Research mutual funds that reorganized with the Portfolio on that date.

The performance information also reflects fee waivers and reimbursements that subsidize and reduce the total operating expenses of each Portfolio. The Portfolios’ returns would have been lower if there were no such waivers and reimbursements. BlackRock Advisors, LLC is under no obligation to waive or continue waiving its fees after February 1, 2010.

 

14

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Disclosure of Expenses

Shareholders of these Portfolios may incur the following charges: (a) expenses related to transactions, including sales charges and redemption fees; and (b) operating expenses, including advisory fees, service and distribution fees including 12b-1 fees, and other Portfolio expenses. The expense examples on the previous pages (which are based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2008 and held through March 31, 2009) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in each Portfolio and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Expense Example tables provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number corresponding to their share class under the headings entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

The tables also provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolios’ actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in these Portfolios and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in other funds’ shareholder reports.

The expenses shown in the table are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as sales charges, redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the hypothetical table is useful in comparing ongoing expenses only, and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.

Derivative Instruments

The Portfolios may invest in various derivative instruments, including options, futures and forward currency contracts, and other instruments specified in the Notes to Financials Statements, which constitute forms of economic leverage. Such instruments are used to obtain exposure to a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities or to hedge market and/or interest rate risks. Such derivative instruments involve risks, including the imperfect correlation between the value of a derivative instrument and the underlying asset, possible default of the other party to the transaction and illiquidity of the derivative instrument. A Portfolio’s ability to successfully use a derivative instrument depends on the Advisor’s ability to accurately predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. The use of derivative instruments may result in losses greater than if they had not been used, may require a Portfolio to sell or purchase portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices other than current market values, may limit the amount of appreciation a Portfolio can realize on an investment or may cause a Portfolio to hold a security that it might otherwise sell. The Portfolios’ investments in these instruments are discussed in detail in the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    15


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Global Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Australia — 1.7%

     

BHP Billiton Ltd.

   14,000    $ 309,417

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

   4,500      108,030

Santos Ltd.

   26,900      316,612

Westpac Banking Corp. Ltd.

   8,500      112,243
         
        846,302
         

Austria — 0.7%

     

OMV AG

   10,100      337,886
         

Belgium — 0.6%

     

Anheuser-Busch InBev NV

   11,600      319,409
         

Bermuda — 0.3%

     

IPC Holdings Ltd.

   5,800      156,832
         

Brazil — 0.6%

     

Banco Bradesco SA - ADR

   5,300      52,470

BM&FBOVESPA SA

   22,042      66,988

Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais - CEMIG - ADR

   49      724

Itau UniBanco Banco Multiplo SA - ADR

   17,950      195,299
         
        315,481
         

Canada — 4.7%

     

Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.

   6,700      259,912

EnCana Corp.

   7,900      323,318

Imperial Oil Ltd.

   8,500      308,772

Kinross Gold Corp.

   10,900      198,064

Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan, Inc.

   2,400      193,944

Research In Motion Ltd.(a)

   3,700      159,359

Royal Bank of Canada

   5,000      145,860

Shoppers Drug Mart Corp.

   8,600      295,625

Suncor Energy, Inc.

   12,500      278,990

Toronto-Dominion Bank - ADR

   4,800      165,457
         
        2,329,301
         

China — 2.0%

     

China Construction Bank Corp. - Class H

   407,700      231,443

China Railway Construction Corp. Ltd. - Class H(a)

   185,500      241,559

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China - Class H - ADR

   511,300      265,734

Sina Corp.(a)

   10,800      251,100
         
        989,836
         

France — 3.8%

     

AXA SA

   6,400      76,816

BNP Paribas SA

   4,700      193,906

France Telecom SA

   17,500      398,951

Mercialys SA

   1,200      34,731

PPR

   3,500      224,386

Sanofi-Aventis - ADR

   3,200      179,588

Societe Generale

   3,400      132,998

Societe Immobiliere de Location pour l’Industrie et le Commerce

   700      52,459

Total SA

   6,200      306,587

Unibail-Rodamco

   500      70,754

Vivendi Universal SA

   8,900      235,396
         
        1,906,572
         

Germany — 2.4%

     

Adidas AG

   11,800      391,634

Allianz SE

   1,400      117,184

Deutsche Boerse AG

   3,300      197,987

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

   3,200      124,175

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG

   1,400      170,473

Salzgitter AG

   3,400      189,233
         
        1,190,686
         

Hong Kong — 1.2%

     

China Mobile Ltd.

   22,000      191,640

China Unicom Hong Kong Ltd.

   162,800      169,887

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) Ltd.

   74,200      78,908

New World Development Co. Ltd.

   147,300      147,039
         
        587,474
         

India — 1.4%

     

Bharti Tele-Ventures Ltd.(a)

   37,100      459,140

Punjab National Bank Ltd.

   31,400      255,411
         
        714,551
         

Israel — 0.5%

     

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. - ADR

   5,900      265,795
         

Italy — 0.8%

     

A2A SpA

   130,100      197,529

Assicurazioni Generali SpA

   3,800      65,119

Credito Emiliano SpA

   16,300      67,032

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

   30,900      84,990
         
        414,670
         

Japan — 8.4%

     

Amada Co. Ltd.

   54,900      293,320

Benesse Corp.

   4,500      165,762

The Gunma Bank Ltd.

   40,300      219,286

Hino Motors Ltd.

   134,900      297,512

Honda Motor Co. Ltd

   9,800      233,297

ITOCHU Corp.

   73,400      362,157

Millea Holdings, Inc.

   4,100      100,979

Mitsubishi Electric Corp.

   91,300      414,919

Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd.

   6,000      68,066

Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group, Inc.

   28,900      142,382

Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd.

   6,000      65,819

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

   36,107      70,508

Nintendo Co. Ltd.

   800      234,026

Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd.

   39,000      374,967

Portfolio Abbreviations

 

To simplify the listings of portfolio holdings in the Schedules of Investments, the names of certain securities have been abbreviated according to the list on the right.   ADR   American Depository Receipts   JPY   Japanese Yen
  AUD   Australian Dollar   LLC   Limited Liability Company
  CAD   Canadian Dollar   NOK   Norwegian Krone
  CHF   Swiss Francs   SEK   Swedish Krona
  CZK   Czechoslovakian Krone   SGD   Singapore Dollar
  DKK   Danish Krone   USD   United States Dollar
  EUR   Euro   ZAR   South African Rand
  GBP   British Pound    
  HKD   Hong Kong Dollar    

 

16

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Global Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Japan (concluded)

     

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

   2,100    $ 73,944

Toyo Suisan Kaisha Ltd.

   13,800      284,744

Toyota Motor Corp.

   14,900      473,282

Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd.

   30,700      291,159
         
        4,166,129
         

Luxembourg — 0.6%

     

ArcelorMittal

   14,500      295,854
         

Mexico — 0.6%

     

Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB de CV - ADR

   12,400      312,604
         

Netherlands — 0.6%

     

Corio NV

   2,000      82,716

Royal Dutch Shell Plc - B Shares

   9,300      202,319
         
        285,035
         

Norway — 1.9%

     

Norsk Hydro ASA

   99,000      372,525

StatoilHydro ASA

   14,700      257,260

Yara International ASA

   13,900      303,673
         
        933,458
         

Russia — 0.2%

     

Vimpel-Communications - ADR

   16,700      109,218
         

Singapore — 1.7%

     

Singapore Airlines Ltd.

   37,700      248,627

United Overseas Bank Ltd.

   43,600      279,663

Wilmar International Ltd.

   145,300      304,029
         
        832,319
         

South Africa — 1.2%

     

Naspers Ltd. - N Shares

   23,800      402,710

Telkom SA Ltd.

   18,100      201,661
         
        604,371
         

South Korea — 1.6%

     

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

   1,900      784,999
         

Spain — 1.7%

     

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA

   14,500      117,693

Banco Santander SA

   24,800      170,991

Iberdrola Renovables SA(a)

   49,400      204,602

Inditex SA

   8,500      331,237
         
        824,523
         

Sweden — 0.7%

     

Nordea Bank AB

   27,900      138,823

Volvo AB - B Shares

   43,500      230,823
         
        369,646
         

Switzerland — 2.5%

     

Credit Suisse Group AG - ADR

   3,600      109,613

Nestle SA

   13,000      439,197

Roche Holding AG - ADR

   3,900      535,275

UBS AG(a)

   9,900      92,815

Zurich Financial Services AG

   500      79,022
         
        1,255,922
         

Taiwan — 2.9%

     

ASUSTeK Computer, Inc.

   292,965      308,906

HTC Corp.

   32,810      403,989

Siliconware Precision Industries Co. - ADR

   35,900      208,220

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - ADR

   57,100      511,045
         
        1,432,160
         

Thailand — 0.3%

     

Bangkok Bank Public Co. Ltd. - ADR

   57,700      122,082
         

United Kingdom — 6.8%

     

AstraZeneca Plc

   5,400      191,240

Barclays Plc

   47,800      101,485

Bellway Plc

   12,800      124,116

BG Group Plc

   20,700      312,247

Charter International Plc

   57,000      372,569

GlaxoSmithKline Plc

   8,600      133,942

HSBC Holdings Plc

   34,800      193,751

Imperial Tobacco Group Plc

   18,200      408,741

Legal & General Group Plc

   95,100      58,552

Man Group Plc

   39,700      124,411

Persimmon Plc

   25,700      127,032

Standard Chartered Plc

   9,900      122,931

Unilever Plc

   14,700      277,972

Vodafone Group Plc - ADR

   15,900      276,978

WPP Plc

   47,400      266,567

Xstrata Plc

   47,000      315,274
         
        3,407,808
         

United States — 45.4%

     

Alcoa, Inc.

   45,500      333,970

Allergan, Inc.

   4,700      224,472

The Allstate Corp.

   4,500      86,175

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

   8,600      176,214

Amgen, Inc.(a)

   9,300      460,536

Analog Devices, Inc.

   21,100      406,597

AON Corp.

   5,900      240,838

Applied Materials, Inc.

   13,200      141,900

Arch Capital Group Ltd.(a)

   1,500      80,790

Arch Coal, Inc.

   17,800      237,986

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

   5,973      281,089

Bally Technologies, Inc.(a)

   2,800      51,576

Bank of America Corp.

   17,200      117,304

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

   5,900      396,716

BJ Services Co.

   25,600      254,720

Boston Properties, Inc.

   2,400      84,072

Bucyrus International, Inc.

   13,000      197,340

Campbell Soup Co.

   10,400      284,544

Carnival Corp.

   5,800      125,280

CBS Corp. - Class B

   27,200      104,448

The Charles Schwab Corp.

   14,000      217,000

Chesapeake Energy Corp.

   9,200      156,952

Chevron Corp.

   4,700      316,028

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. - Class A(a)

   1,900      126,122

Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)

   23,300      390,741

Commerce Bancshares, Inc.

   3,170      115,071

Commercial Metals Co.

   14,300      165,165

ConocoPhillips

   7,800      305,448

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   9,200      232,208

Cummins, Inc.

   13,000      330,850

eBay, Inc.(a)

   33,100      415,736

Everest Re Group Ltd.

   1,800      127,440

FPL Group, Inc.

   6,700      339,891

Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc. - Class B

   5,100      194,361

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

   1,800      190,836

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    17


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Global Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

United States (concluded)

     

Google, Inc. - Class A(a)

   700    $ 243,642

GrafTech International Ltd.(a)

   29,900      184,184

Halliburton Co.

   11,900      184,093

Hess Corp.

   3,300      178,860

Hewlett-Packard Co.

   6,000      192,360

Hudson City Bancorp, Inc.

   15,700      183,533

Intel Corp.

   26,000      391,300

IntercontinentalExchange, Inc.(a)

   2,100      156,387

International Business Machines Corp.

   2,600      251,914

J. Crew Group, Inc.(a)

   7,800      102,804

The J.M. Smucker Co.

   7,528      280,569

Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.(a)

   4,800      185,568

JetBlue Airways Corp.(a)

   57,600      210,240

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

   9,000      239,220

KLA-Tencor Corp.

   9,600      192,000

Kohl’s Corp.(a)

   10,700      452,824

Macy’s, Inc.

   16,900      150,410

McDonald’s Corp.

   5,100      278,307

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.(a)

   11,800      487,812

Medtronic, Inc.(b)

   7,400      218,078

MetLife, Inc.

   4,200      95,634

Microsoft Corp.

   14,100      259,017

Morgan Stanley

   6,200      141,174

Murphy Oil Corp.

   3,000      134,310

The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.(a)

   6,000      117,480

Nike, Inc. - Class B

   3,700      173,493

Noble Energy, Inc.

   3,900      210,132

Northern Trust Corp.

   3,000      179,460

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

   5,300      294,945

Oracle Corp.

   16,400      296,348

Peabody Energy Corp.

   10,100      252,904

People’s United Financial, Inc.

   11,800      212,046

PetroHawk Energy Corp.(a)

   12,500      240,375

Pfizer, Inc.

   37,600      512,112

Pride International, Inc.(a)

   11,400      204,972

The Procter & Gamble Co.

   5,354      252,120

QUALCOMM, Inc.(b)

   12,900      501,939

Ralcorp Holdings, Inc.(a)

   5,700      307,116

Range Resources Corp.

   5,000      205,800

Robert Half International, Inc.

   13,800      246,054

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

   35,400      311,874

T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.

   5,800      167,388

Terex Corp.(a)

   19,400      179,450

Texas Instruments, Inc.

   7,900      130,429

Timken Co.

   14,100      196,836

The Travelers Cos., Inc.

   8,700      353,568

TreeHouse Foods, Inc.(a)

   10,800      310,932

Trinity Industries, Inc.

   18,800      171,832

U.S. Bancorp

   9,200      134,412

UMB Financial Corp.

   2,800      118,972

Unum Group

   4,000      50,000

Urban Outfitters, Inc.(a)

   20,000      327,400

Wabtec Corp.

   10,000      263,800

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

   7,200      375,120

The Walt Disney Co.

   19,100      346,856

Weatherford International Ltd.(a)

   20,700      229,149

WellPoint, Inc.(a)

   2,200      83,534

Wells Fargo & Co.

   9,000      128,160

Werner Enterprises, Inc.

   13,400      202,608

Wyeth

   16,600      714,464

Yum! Brands, Inc.

   12,500      343,500
         
        22,652,236
         

Total Common Stocks — 97.8%

        48,763,159
         

Rights

     

HSBC Holdings Plc, Expiring 4/03/09(a)

   6,500      36,189

Nordea Bank AB, Expiring 4/03/09(a)

   291,500      33,337
         

Total Rights — 0.1%

        69,526
         

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $60,330,213) — 97.9%

        48,832,685
         

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(c)(d)
(Cost — $190,812) — 0.4%

   190,812      190,812
         

Total Investments (Cost — $60,521,025*) — 98.3%

        49,023,497

Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 1.7%

        834,514
         

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 49,858,011
         

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 61,293,546  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 677,671  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (12,947,720 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (12,270,049 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) All or a portion of security pledged as collateral in connection with open financial futures contracts.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 190,812 **   $ 1,988
** Represents net purchase cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

 

Foreign currency exchange contracts as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased
   Currency
Sold
   Counterparty   

Settlement
Date

   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
AUD    1,116,000    USD    731,491    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09    $ 43,595  
CAD    321,000    USD    252,688    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,918  
CHF    350,000    USD    311,343    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (3,770 )
CHF    266,000    USD    236,057    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (2,302 )
CHF    99,000    USD    85,939    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,060  

 

18

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Global Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

Currency
Purchased
   Currency
Sold
   Counterparty   

Settlement
Date

   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
DKK    1,618,000    USD    284,474    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09    $ 4,004  
EUR    372,000    USD    487,751    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      6,472  
EUR    1,140,000    USD    1,490,934    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      23,619  
GBP    1,250,000    USD    1,825,469    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (31,845 )
JPY    60,000,000    USD    678,043    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (71,761 )
JPY    6,431,000    USD    72,594    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (7,610 )
JPY    17,467,000    USD    182,839    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (6,340 )
JPY    5,374,000    USD    60,397    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (6,094 )
JPY    15,855,000    USD    161,634    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (1,424 )
NOK    1,268,000    USD    186,828    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,721  
NOK    571,000    USD    79,403    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      5,503  
SEK    1,500,000    USD    180,026    Royal Bank of Scotland    4/15/09      2,450  
USD    157,017    CAD    200,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (1,617 )
USD    163,572    CAD    200,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      4,939  
USD    92,366    EUR    68,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      2,024  
USD    61,359    GBP    44,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (1,776 )
USD    144,711    GBP    102,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (1,649 )
USD    73,809    GBP    51,000    Barclays Bank, PLC    4/15/09      629  
USD    146,069    GBP    101,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,144  
USD    347,978    HKD    2,700,000    Goldman Sachs Bank USA    4/15/09      (413 )
USD    926,238    NOK    6,695,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (69,293 )
USD    64,810    SEK    544,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (1,367 )
USD    601,958    SGD    900,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      10,466  
CAD    232,000    USD    189,293    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (5,145 )
GBP    70,000    USD    101,082    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (618 )
HKD    4,360,000    USD    562,862    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (73 )
SEK    1,742,000    USD    206,199    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      5,819  
USD    95,555    AUD    139,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (641 )
USD    43,107    AUD    62,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      200  
USD    102,409    AUD    147,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      678  
USD    305,492    CAD    387,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (1,686 )
USD    58,515    CHF    66,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      442  
USD    356,846    EUR    274,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (7,221 )
USD    137,005    EUR    103,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      148  
USD    80,264    EUR    59,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      1,870  
USD    266,996    EUR    197,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      5,241  
USD    324,723    GBP    230,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (5,372 )
USD    96,837    GBP    66,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      2,114  
USD    459,791    GBP    317,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      4,835  
USD    290,246    JPY    28,460,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      2,405  
USD    34,407    ZAR    337,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (630 )
USD    96,772    ZAR    931,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (22 )
USD    85,428    ZAR    817,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09    $ 486  
                       
Total                   $ (94,887 )
                       

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
   Other Financial
Instruments***
 
     Assets    Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 27,353,046    $ —      $ —    

Level 2

     21,410,539      133,782      (228,669 )

Level 3

     259,912      —        —    
                      

Total

   $ 49,023,497    $ 133,782    $ (228,669 )
                      

 

*** Other financial instruments are foreign currency exchange contracts. Foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/ depreciation on the instrument.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    19


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Global Opportunities Portfolio

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value:

 

     Investments
in Securities
 
     Assets  

Balance, as of September 30, 2008

   $ —    

Accrued discounts/premiums

     —    

Realized loss

     —    

Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation****

     (394,042 )

Net purchases

     653,954  

Transfers in/out of Level 3

     —    
        

Balance, as of March 31, 2009

   $ 259,912  
        

 

**** Included in the related net change in appreciation/depreciation on the Statement of Operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares     Value  

Common Stocks

    

Biotechnology — 17.0%

    

3Sbio, Inc. - ADR(a)

   85,100     $ 576,127  

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

   455,600       17,157,896  

Amgen, Inc.(a)

   920,510       45,583,655  

Biogen Idec, Inc.(a)

   27,100       1,420,582  

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc.(a)(b)

   472,009       5,829,311  

Celera Corp.(a)

   974,280       7,433,757  

Genzyme Corp.(a)

   111,860       6,643,365  

Gilead Sciences, Inc.(a)

   713,190       33,034,961  

Immunogen, Inc.(a)

   79,300       563,030  

Incyte Corp.(a)

   190,400       445,536  

Nanosphere, Inc.(a)

   84,400       419,468  

Pharmasset, Inc.(a)

   78,300       768,123  

Poniard Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)(b)

   192,800       412,592  

Rigel Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

   351,800       2,160,052  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

   475,520       13,661,690  
          
       136,110,145  
          
    

Food & Staples Retailing — 3.8%

    

CVS Caremark Corp.

   1,091,280       29,999,287  
          

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 23.3%

    

Alcon, Inc.

   252,950       22,995,684  

Baxter International, Inc.

   197,810       10,131,828  

Beckman Coulter, Inc.

   354,130       18,064,171  

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

   475,090       31,945,052  

Boston Scientific Corp.(a)

   2,039,500       16,214,025  

Cie Generale d’Optique Essilor International SA

   82,708       3,195,635  

Covidien Ltd.

   298,670       9,927,791  

Dexcom, Inc.(a)

   179,200       741,888  

DiaSorin SpA

   229,700       5,137,462  

Gen-Probe, Inc.(a)

   355,200       16,190,016  

Hologic, Inc.(a)

   116,700       1,527,603  

Immucor, Inc.(a)

   404,200       10,165,630  

Medtronic, Inc.

   617,260       18,190,652  

ResMed, Inc.(a)

   57,800       2,042,652  

ResMed, Inc. - ADR(a)

   658,800       2,427,919  

Smith & Nephew Plc

   308,500       1,920,229  

Sonova Holding AG

   115,100       6,946,866  

St. Jude Medical, Inc.(a)

   199,600       7,251,468  

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

   40,500       1,328,805  
          
       186,345,376  
          

Health Care Providers & Services — 18.6%

    

AMERIGROUP Corp.(a)

   190,300       5,240,862  

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

   421,880       13,778,601  

Centene Corp.(a)

   132,000       2,378,640  

Coventry Health Care, Inc.(a)

   275,500       3,564,970  

DaVita, Inc.(a)

   522,280       22,954,206  

Express Scripts, Inc.(a)

   184,110       8,500,359  

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

   121,900       4,730,280  

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings(a)

   200,000       11,698,000  

McKesson Corp.

   247,430       8,669,947  

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.(a)

   835,750       34,549,905  

MEDNAX, Inc.(a)

   252,300       7,435,281  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

   251,200       5,257,616  

VCA Antech, Inc.(a)

   170,300       3,840,265  

WellPoint, Inc.(a)

   426,300       16,186,611  
          
       148,785,543  
          

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 3.9%

    

Medivation, Inc.(a)(b)

   161,400       2,948,778  

Millipore Corp.(a)(b)

   171,900       9,868,779  

Qiagen NV(a)(b)

   736,510       11,754,700  

Tecan Group AG

   63,800       1,704,674  

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(a)

   143,200       5,107,944  
          
       31,384,875  
          

Pharmaceuticals — 30.6%

    

Abbott Laboratories

   653,090       31,152,393  

Allergan, Inc.

   297,300       14,199,048  

ARYx Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

   122,000       414,800  

Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)(b)

   297,600       8,249,472  

BioForm Medical, Inc.(a)

   79,600       97,112  

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

   387,600       8,496,192  

Johnson & Johnson

   518,840       27,290,984  

Merck & Co., Inc.

   853,700       22,836,475  

Novartis AG - ADR

   142,240       5,380,939  

Optimer Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)(b)

   48,800       643,672  

Pfizer, Inc.

   1,840,940       25,073,603  

Roche Holding AG - ADR

   153,500       21,067,898  

Sanofi-Aventis - ADR

   164,900       9,254,400  

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. - ADR

   389,060       17,527,153  

Wyeth

   1,215,132       52,299,281  
          
       243,983,422  
          

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $819,170,354) — 97.2%

       776,608,648  
          
     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
       

Short-Term Securities

    

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(c)(d)

   11,044,114       11,044,114  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17%(c)(d)(e)

   17,354,250       17,354,250  
          

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $28,398,364) — 3.6%

       28,398,364  
          

Total Investments Before Outstanding Options Written
(Cost — $847,568,718*) — 100.8%

       805,007,012  
          
     Contracts        

Options Written

    

Exchange-Traded Call Options Written

    

Amgen, Inc., Strike Price $55, Expires 4/18/09

   (920 )     (23,460 )
          

Exchange-Traded Put Options Written

    

Merck & Co., Inc., Strike Price $25, Expires 4/18/09

   (770 )     (38,500 )
          

Total Options Written
(Premiums Received — $153,339) — (0.0)%

       (61,960 )
          

Total Investments Net of Outstanding Options Written — 100.8%

       804,945,052  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.8)%

       (6,167,553 )
          

Net Assets — 100.0%

     $ 798,777,499  
          

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 845,790,530  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 38,805,078  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (79,588,596 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (40,783,518 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    21


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio
  

 

(d) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ (18,955,886 )**   $ 304,363

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (60,807,850 )**   $ 104,546
** Represents net sales cost.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

Foreign currency exchange contracts as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased
   Currency
Sold
  

Counterparty

  

Settlement
Date

   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
CHF   4,307,000    USD   3,822,176    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09    $ (37,276 )
CHF   1,696,000    USD   1,471,107    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      19,301  
CHF   2,649,000    USD   2,277,765    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      50,119  
CHF   11,037,000    USD   9,399,911    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      299,169  
EUR   3,833,000    USD   4,985,575    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      106,779  
GBP   1,578,000    USD   2,221,966    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      42,306  
USD   79,010    AUD   120,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (4,333 )
USD   2,050,371    CHF   2,396,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (55,183 )
USD   44,189,773    CHF   49,645,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      562,807  
USD   23,065,475    EUR   17,664,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (402,135 )
USD   1,624,869    EUR   1,253,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (39,811 )
USD   2,198,833    EUR   1,660,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (6,570 )
USD   161,776    GBP   116,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (4,673 )
USD   475,098    GBP   330,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      1,581  
USD   5,000,863    GBP   3,426,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      84,898  
GBP   1,817,000    USD   2,601,882    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      5,331  
USD   1,626,474    AUD   2,492,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (98,121 )
USD   964,876    EUR   725,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      1,562  
                     
Total                 $ 525,751  
                     

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
   Other Financial
Instruments ***
 
     Assets    Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 751,049,568    $ —      $ (61,960 )

Level 2

     53,957,444      1,173,853      (648,102 )

Level 3

     —        —        —    
                      

Total

   $ 805,007,012    $ 1,173,853    $ (710,062 )
                      

 

*** Other financial instruments are foreign currency exchange contracts and options written. Foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument and options written are shown at market value.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

22

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    International Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Australia — 2.9%

     

BHP Billiton Ltd.

   214,900    $ 4,749,559

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

   111,500      2,676,739

National Australia Bank Ltd.

   129,600      1,809,135

Santos Ltd.

   448,700      5,281,174

Westpac Banking Corp. Ltd.

   208,300      2,750,611

Woodside Petroleum Ltd.

   134,700      3,587,893

WorleyParsons Ltd.

   288,200      3,631,990
         
        24,487,101
         

Austria — 0.7%

     

OMV AG

   178,900      5,984,930
         

Belgium — 0.5%

     

Anheuser-Busch InBev NV

   167,100      4,601,144
         

Brazil — 3.0%

     

Banco Bradesco SA - ADR

   230,400      2,296,303

Banco Itau Holding Financeira SA - ADR

   156,100      1,722,668

BM&FBOVESPA SA

   422,700      1,284,636

Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais - CEMIG - ADR(a)

   248,564      3,673,776

Gerdau SA - ADR

   751,900      4,112,893

Petroleo Brasileiro SA - ADR

   194,700      5,932,509

Tele Norte Leste Participacoes SA - ADR

   285,000      3,944,400

Usinas Siderurgicas de Minas Gerais SA, Class A - Preference Shares

   163,900      2,079,352
         
        25,046,537
         

Canada — 7.2%

     

Addax Petroleum Corp.

   117,100      2,535,557

Bank of Nova Scotia

   84,700      2,087,269

Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.

   109,400      4,243,936

Eldorado Gold Corp.(b)

   941,800      8,515,641

EnCana Corp.

   117,100      4,792,481

Imperial Oil Ltd.

   119,000      4,322,811

Kinross Gold Corp.

   176,000      3,198,096

Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan, Inc.

   38,900      3,143,509

Research In Motion Ltd.(b)

   72,500      3,122,575

Royal Bank of Canada

   111,900      3,264,342

Shoppers Drug Mart Corp.

   116,200      3,994,375

Suncor Energy, Inc.

   188,500      4,207,162

Talisman Energy, Inc.

   539,600      5,713,563

Teck Cominco Ltd. - Class B

   831,600      4,650,047

Toronto-Dominion Bank - ADR

   96,400      3,322,925
         
        61,114,289
         

China — 3.1%

     

China Construction Bank Corp. - Class H

   12,313,700      6,990,231

China Life Insurance Co. Ltd. - Class H

   751,100      2,470,377

China Railway Construction Corp. Ltd. - Class H(b)

   2,523,800      3,286,508

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China - Class H - ADR

   14,376,900      7,471,990

PetroChina Co. Ltd. - ADR

   71,500      5,698,550
         
        25,917,656
         

Denmark — 0.4%

     

TrygVesta AS

   70,500      3,567,304
         

Finland — 0.4%

     

Outokumpu Oyj - Series B

   334,100      3,614,796
         

France — 5.8%

     

AXA SA

   104,600      1,255,459

BNP Paribas SA

   77,200      3,185,012

Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin - Class B

   81,300      3,013,343

Credit Agricole SA

   111,800      1,233,558

France Telecom SA

   162,900      3,713,665

Gaz de France

   139,500      4,784,106

Mercialys SA

   57,000      1,649,724

PPR

   47,100      3,019,600

Sanofi-Aventis - ADR

   105,300      5,909,571

Societe Generale

   68,000      2,659,953

Societe Immobiliere de Location pour l’Industrie et le Commerce

   10,300      771,901

Sodexo

   83,400      3,798,877

Technip SA

   90,600      3,193,796

Total SA

   162,000      8,010,823

Unibail-Rodamco

   16,600      2,349,022
         
        48,548,410
         

Germany — 7.3%

     

Adidas AG

   154,200      5,117,799

Allianz SE

   33,100      2,770,561

Deutsche Bank AG

   52,600      2,106,959

Deutsche Boerse AG

   37,700      2,261,852

Deutsche Post AG

   339,500      3,658,176

Deutsche Telekom AG

   543,300      6,729,322

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

   78,000      3,026,758

Gerry Weber International AG

   182,282      3,725,559

MAN AG

   114,900      4,987,474

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG

   18,000      2,191,794

Rhoen Klinikum AG

   435,900      8,084,379

RWE AG

   69,200      4,846,124

Salzgitter AG

   50,100      2,788,413

SGL Carbon AG(b)

   215,800      5,136,315

Siemens AG

   77,200      4,407,328
         
        61,838,813
         

Hong Kong — 3.5%

     

China Mobile Ltd.

   288,600      2,513,970

China Unicom Hong Kong Ltd.

   2,147,500      2,240,983

CNOOC Ltd. - ADR

   56,000      5,633,600

Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd.

   328,700      3,102,093

Huabao International Holdings Ltd.

   7,371,700      6,062,696

New World Development Co. Ltd.

   3,298,700      3,292,859

REXLot Holdings Ltd.(b)

   34,140,900      1,079,223

Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd.

   194,300      1,743,451

Wheelock & Co. Ltd.

   2,051,600      3,450,450
         
        29,119,325
         

India — 1.6%

     

Bharti Tele-Ventures Ltd.(b)

   492,457      6,094,517

HDFC Bank Ltd.

   154,100      2,964,668

State Bank of India Ltd.

   211,000      4,447,049
         
        13,506,234
         

Israel — 0.5%

     

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. - ADR

   89,500      4,031,975
         

Italy — 2.1%

     

Assicurazioni Generali SpA

   98,400      1,686,237

Benetton Group SpA

   705,600      4,594,278

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA

   1,204,100      3,311,861

Parmalat SpA

   1,312,600      2,702,350

UniCredito Italiano SpA

   1,327,700      2,185,220

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    23


Schedule of Investments (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Italy (concluded)

     

Unione di Banche Italiane ScpA

   261,800    $ 2,882,725
         
        17,362,671
         

Japan — 13.3%

     

Air Water, Inc.

   455,400      4,037,484

Amada Co. Ltd.

   959,600      5,126,962

The Bank of Kyoto Ltd.

   274,300      2,329,720

Benesse Corp.

   75,100      2,766,377

Geo Corp.

   4,000      2,319,575

Honda Motor Co. Ltd

   161,000      3,832,729

Hosiden Corp.

   333,900      3,331,489

Japan Prime Realty Investment Corp.

   700      1,300,793

Kamigumi Co. Ltd.

   612,400      4,076,959

Kintetsu World Express, Inc.

   339,200      6,310,865

Matsui Securities Co. Ltd.

   370,700      2,433,940

Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd.

   82,200      932,503

Mitsubishi Materials Corp.

   1,325,600      3,610,934

Mitsubishi Tokyo Financial Group, Inc.

   918,800      4,526,674

Mitsui Fudosan Co. Ltd.

   82,300      902,819

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

   779,847      1,522,856

Nihon Nohyaku Co. Ltd.

   628,500      4,347,431

Nintendo Co. Ltd.

   12,300      3,598,141

Nippon Express Co. Ltd.

   941,500      2,967,066

Seino Holdings Corp.

   1,010,200      4,886,064

Shimano, Inc.

   135,800      4,134,372

Shinko Securities Co. Ltd.

   1,358,600      2,681,843

The Sumitomo Industries Ltd.

   320,700      1,241,683

Sumitomo Metal Mining Co. Ltd.

   510,000      4,903,415

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

   60,000      2,112,683

Tokyo Steel Manufacturing Co. Ltd.

   328,600      3,311,977

Toyo Seikan Kaisha Ltd.

   253,300      3,738,935

Toyo Suisan Kaisha Ltd.

   165,000      3,404,552

Toyota Motor Corp.

   243,000      7,718,619

Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd.

   428,800      4,066,748

Yamato Kogyo Co. Ltd.

   241,800      5,220,848

Zeon Corp.

   1,790,100      4,863,024
         
        112,560,080
         

Luxembourg — 1.5%

     

ArcelorMittal

   309,300      6,310,865

SES SA

   317,000      6,050,876
         
        12,361,741
         

Malaysia — 0.2%

     

Bumiputra-Commerce Holdings Berhad

   901,100      1,694,989
         

Mexico — 0.5%

     

Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB de CV - ADR

   164,800      4,154,608
         

Netherlands — 2.1%

     

ASML Holding NV

   144,100      2,523,191

Corio NV

   28,100      1,162,154

Heineken NV

   161,000      4,573,572

Qiagen NV(b)

   267,600      4,261,962

Royal Dutch Shell Plc - B Shares

   214,500      4,666,401

Wereldhave NV

   12,200      853,035
         
        18,040,315
         

Norway — 1.8%

     

Norsk Hydro ASA

   1,374,700      5,172,827

StatoilHydro ASA

   227,100      3,974,410

Yara International ASA

   292,400      6,388,046
         
        15,535,283
         

Papua New Guinea — 0.6%

     

Oil Search Ltd.

   1,421,300      5,222,028
         

Philippines — 0.6%

     

Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. - ADR

   106,600      4,704,258
         

Russia — 0.2%

     

Vimpel-Communications - ADR

   268,300      1,754,682
         

Singapore — 1.1%

     

Singapore Airlines Ltd.

   513,300      3,385,156

United Overseas Bank Ltd.

   273,300      1,753,025

Wilmar International Ltd.

   1,922,100      4,021,847
         
        9,160,028
         

South Africa — 1.0%

     

Naspers Ltd. - N Shares

   306,300      5,182,772

Telkom SA Ltd.

   291,800      3,251,092
         
        8,433,864
         

South Korea — 2.0%

     

LG Chem Ltd.

   75,300      4,766,397

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

   29,600      12,229,459
         
        16,995,856
         

Spain — 2.3%

     

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria SA

   372,300      3,021,878

Banco Santander SA

   558,400      3,850,058

Iberdrola Renovables SA(b)

   818,700      3,390,847

Inditex SA

   113,900      4,438,575

Telefonica SA

   227,900      4,544,637
         
        19,245,995
         

Sweden — 0.6%

     

Nordea Bank AB

   297,900      1,482,276

Volvo AB - B Shares

   655,600      3,478,791
         
        4,961,067
         

Switzerland — 3.9%

     

Credit Suisse Group AG - ADR

   113,200      3,446,711

Nestle SA

   228,500      7,719,727

Novartis AG

   132,400      5,009,164

Roche Holding AG - ADR

   50,400      6,917,408

Sonova Holding AG

   65,700      3,965,326

UBS AG(b)

   302,700      2,837,887

Zurich Financial Services AG

   18,800      2,971,214
         
        32,867,437
         

Taiwan — 5.0%

     

ASUSTeK Computer, Inc.

   3,559,691      3,753,386

AU Optronics Corp. - ADR

   342,900      2,876,931

Chang Hwa Commercial Bank

   6,816,400      2,296,758

China Airlines Ltd.(b)

   13,579,600      3,386,775

GeoVision, Inc.

   491,000      1,914,381

HTC Corp.

   321,960      3,964,290

Polaris Securities Co. Ltd.

   11,367,304      3,960,122

Siliconware Precision Industries Co. - ADR

   1,087,800      6,309,240

Taishin Financial Holdings Co. Ltd.

   8      1

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - ADR

   1,000,934      8,958,359

Yuanta Financial Holding Co. Ltd.

   10,301,000      4,716,933
         
        42,137,176
         

Thailand — 1.1%

     

Bangkok Bank Public Co. Ltd.

   1,638,900      3,442,012

 

24

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Thailand (concluded)

     

Banpu Public Co. Ltd.

   499,700    $ 3,018,044

Siam Commercial Bank Public Co. Ltd.

   2,133,000      3,244,409
         
        9,704,465
         

United Kingdom — 16.6%

     

Aberdeen Asset Management Plc

   619,400      1,131,838

AstraZeneca Plc

   131,700      4,664,138

Aviva Plc

   403,600      1,251,560

Barclays Plc

   1,601,100      3,399,323

Beazley Group Plc

   2,000,000      2,459,785

Bellway Plc

   213,400      2,069,239

BG Group Plc

   273,800      4,130,107

British American Tobacco Plc

   104,600      2,416,342

Britvic Plc

   984,800      3,188,512

Cable & Wireless Plc

   2,289,800      4,579,131

Catlin Group Ltd.

   882,000      3,955,844

Charter International Plc

   821,600      5,370,223

Cookson Group Plc

   21,000,000      4,899,237

Dana Petroleum Plc(b)

   215,500      3,440,655

De La Rue Plc

   409,399      5,701,096

Domino’s Pizza UK & IRL Plc

   1,393,400      4,486,605

GlaxoSmithKline Plc

   383,900      5,979,105

Greene King Plc

   323,500      2,268,681

Hiscox Ltd.

   1,362,200      6,027,188

HSBC Holdings Plc

   948,000      5,278,041

ICAP Plc

   359,100      1,563,791

Imperial Tobacco Group Plc

   306,550      6,884,596

Inchcape Plc

   2,292,700      2,485,699

InterContinental Hotels Group Plc

   327,504      2,484,858

John Wood Group Plc

   1,322,500      4,249,214

Legal & General Group Plc

   2,316,100      1,426,010

Man Group Plc

   614,800      1,926,641

Next Plc

   313,000      5,939,564

Persimmon Plc

   426,500      2,108,133

Premier Oil Plc(b)

   231,900      3,532,771

Prudential Plc

   313,700      1,520,784

Standard Chartered Plc

   202,200      2,510,771

Unilever Plc

   306,000      5,786,360

Vodafone Group Plc

   4,503,700      7,851,970

Vodafone Group Plc - ADR

   226,000      3,936,920

VT Group Plc

   611,000      4,139,640

Xstrata Plc

   799,700      5,364,347
         
        140,408,719
         

United States — 0.3%

     

Alcon, Inc.

   25,000      2,272,750
         

Total Common Stocks — 93.7%

        790,956,526
         

Rights

     

Beazley Group Plc, Expiring 4/03/09(b)

   947,368      680

HSBC Holdings Plc, Expiring 4/03/09(b)

   395,000      2,199,183

Nordea Bank AB, Expiring 4/03/09(b)

   3,276,900      374,758
         

Total Rights — 0.3%

        2,574,621
         

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $963,252,762) — 94.0%

        793,531,147
         
     Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
   Value

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17% (c)(d)(e)

   1,740,000    $ 1,740,000

TCW Money Market Fund, 0.31% (e)

   40,384,206      40,384,206
         

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $42,124,206) — 5.0%

        42,124,206
         

Total Investments (Cost — $1,005,376,968*) — 99.0%

        835,655,353

Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 1.0%

        8,181,733
         

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 843,837,086
         

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 1,012,464,555  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 34,828,384  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (211,637,586 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (176,809,202 )
        

 

(a) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(b) Non-income producing security.

 

(c) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

(d) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ (10,071,100 )**   $ 13,865

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ (30,000,000 )**   $ 445,850
** Represents net sales cost.

 

(e) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

 

Foreign currency exchange contracts as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased
   Currency
Sold
  

Counterparty

  

Settlement
Date

   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
AUD   3,776,000    USD   2,455,880    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09    $ 166,630  
AUD   8,000,000    USD   5,201,200    BNP Paribas    4/15/09      354,965  
AUD   14,668,000    USD   9,614,258    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      572,989  
CAD   12,450,040    USD   9,999,791    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (124,842 )
CHF   21,545,000    USD   19,165,370    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (232,084 )
CHF   2,382,000    USD   2,113,867    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (20,616 )
CHF   172,000    USD   147,896    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      3,254  
CHF   697,000    USD   605,047    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      7,461  
DKK   1,700,000    USD   298,891    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      4,207  
EUR   1,129,000    USD   1,480,297    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      19,642  
EUR   30,000,000    USD   39,235,109    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      621,566  
GBP   8,100,000    USD   11,829,038    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (206,353 )

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    25


Schedule of Investments (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio
  

 

Currency

Purchased

   Currency
Sold
  

Counterparty

  

Settlement
Date

   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

GBP

  656,000    USD   935,162    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09    $ 6,132  

HKD

  12,000,000    USD   1,548,328    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      77  

JPY

  2,173,000,000    USD   24,556,447    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (2,598,945 )

JPY

  700,602,000    USD   7,333,674    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (254,305 )

JPY

  123,725,000    USD   1,396,618    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (146,415 )

JPY

  100,027,000    USD   1,124,177    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (113,434 )

JPY

  87,647,000    USD   979,614    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (93,967 )

JPY

  796,898,000    USD   8,123,969    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (71,558 )

NOK

  13,666,000    USD   2,013,554    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      18,548  

NOK

  8,862,000    USD   1,232,351    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      85,408  

NOK

  20,894,000    USD   3,003,710    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      103,179  

SEK

  115,553,000    USD   13,868,324    Royal Bank of Scotland    4/15/09      188,714  

USD

  4,712,935    AUD   7,158,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (258,453 )

USD

  2,739,941    CAD   3,490,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (28,208 )

USD

  1,197,577    CAD   1,525,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (12,002 )

USD

  1,226,793    CAD   1,500,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      37,044  

USD

  1,566,367    CAD   1,928,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      37,142  

USD

  3,273,880    CAD   4,007,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      95,664  

USD

  981,372    CHF   1,110,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      5,928  

USD

  1,122,761    CZK   23,173,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (1,878 )

USD

  1,666,755    EUR   1,225,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      39,274  

USD

  7,891,833    EUR   5,810,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      172,924  

USD

  1,946,760    GBP   1,396,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (56,361 )

USD

  1,909,612    GBP   1,346,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (21,763 )

USD

  1,376,805    GBP   952,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      10,780  

USD

  1,382,112    GBP   955,000    Barclays Bank, PLC    4/15/09      11,783  

USD

  1,855,911    HKD   14,382,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      148  

USD

  1,773,312    JPY   173,969,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      15,408  

USD

  20,892,313    NOK   151,013,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (1,562,969 )

USD

  1,038,157    SEK   8,714,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (21,902 )

USD

  1,619,595    SGD   2,455,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      6,135  

USD

  758,468    SGD   1,134,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      13,187  

CAD

  5,265,000    USD   4,295,803    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (116,763 )

DKK

  2,449,000    USD   426,870    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      9,269  

GBP

  125,000    USD   180,503    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (1,104 )

SEK

  21,935,000    USD   2,596,429    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      73,275  

USD

  2,959,451    AUD   4,305,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (19,835 )

USD

  1,145,312    AUD   1,644,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      7,578  

USD

  2,023,982    CAD   2,564,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (11,167 )

USD

  1,512,754    CHF   1,786,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (58,736 )

USD

  17,910,014    EUR   13,752,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (362,405 )

USD

  8,520,442    GBP   6,035,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (140,949 )

USD

  4,552,947    GBP   3,139,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      47,875  

USD

  74,693    JPY   7,324,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      619  

USD

  585,123    ZAR   5,731,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (10,716 )

USD

  1,651,154    ZAR   15,885,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (371 )

USD

  923,915    ZAR   8,836,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      5,258  
                     

Total

                $ (3,806,038 )
                     

 

 

Financial futures contracts purchased as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Contracts

  

Issue

   Exchange    Expiration
Date
   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Appreciation

303

   FTSE 100 Index    London    June 2009    $ 16,890,338    $ 1,162,763

215

   TOPIX Index    Tokyo    June 2009    $ 16,876,800      1,358,011
                  

Total

               $ 2,520,774
                  

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
   Other Financial
Instruments ***
 
     Assets    Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 177,271,599    $ 2,520,774    $ —    

Level 2

     650,861,981      2,742,063      (6,548,101 )

Level 3

     7,521,773      —        —    
                      

Total

   $ 835,655,353    $ 5,262,837    $ (6,548,101 )
                      

 

*** Other financial instruments are futures and foreign currency exchange contracts. Futures and foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument.

 

26

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    International Opportunities Portfolio

 

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value:

 

     Investments
in Securities
     Assets

Balance, as of September 30, 2008

   $ —  

Accrued discounts/premiums

     —  

Realized gain (loss)

     —  

Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     —  

Net purchases (sales)

     —  

Transfers in of Level 3

     7,521,773
      

Balance, as of March 31, 2009

   $ 7,521,773
      

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    27


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 1.4%

     

Lockheed Martin Corp.

   14,300    $ 987,129

Raytheon Co.

   9,900      385,506
         
        1,372,635
         

Biotechnology — 6.2%

     

Amgen, Inc.(a)

   61,200      3,030,624

Biogen Idec, Inc.(a)

   14,400      754,848

Celera Corp.(a)

   58,300      444,829

Gilead Sciences, Inc.(a)

   26,000      1,204,320

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

   18,700      537,251
         
        5,971,872
         

Communications Equipment — 10.5%

     

Cisco Systems, Inc.(a)

   130,000      2,180,100

Corning, Inc.

   43,600      578,572

F5 Networks, Inc.(a)

   32,600      682,970

Harris Corp.

   30,000      868,200

Juniper Networks, Inc.(a)

   54,600      822,276

Motorola, Inc.

   70,800      299,484

Nokia Oyj - ADR

   33,400      389,778

Polycom, Inc.(a)

   25,500      392,445

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   82,700      3,217,857

Research In Motion Ltd.(a)

   14,700      633,129

Tellabs, Inc.(a)

   34,200      156,636
         
        10,221,447
         

Computers & Peripherals — 11.6%

     

Apple, Inc.(a)

   34,700      3,647,664

ASUSTeK Computer, Inc.

   142,351      150,097

Dell, Inc.(a)

   47,600      451,248

EMC Corp.(a)

   88,000      1,003,200

Hewlett-Packard Co.

   41,400      1,327,284

HTC Corp.

   16,510      203,287

International Business Machines Corp.

   35,100      3,400,839

NetApp, Inc.(a)

   42,100      624,764

Sandisk Corp.(a)

   34,200      432,630
         
        11,241,013
         

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 2.4%

     

AT&T, Inc.

   35,500      894,600

Verizon Communications, Inc.

   36,200      1,093,240

Vimpel-Communications - ADR

   58,700      383,898
         
        2,371,738
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 2.1%

     

Agilent Technologies, Inc.(a)

   33,400      513,358

Amphenol Corp. - Class A

   24,900      709,401

AU Optronics Corp. - ADR

   38,900      326,371

Nidec Corp.

   9,700      436,643
         
        1,985,773
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 0.8%

     

CVS Caremark Corp.

   29,000      797,210
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 5.8%

     

Alcon, Inc.

   7,400      672,734

Baxter International, Inc.

   9,400      481,468

Beckman Coulter, Inc.

   17,800      907,978

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

   12,700      853,948

Boston Scientific Corp.(a)

   37,700      299,715

Covidien Ltd.

   6,500      216,060

Medtronic, Inc.

   58,100      1,712,207

St. Jude Medical, Inc.(a)

   12,400      450,492
         
        5,594,602
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.7%

     

priceline.com, Inc.(a)(b)

   8,100      638,118
         

Internet Software & Services — 8.2%

     

Ariba, Inc.(a)

   66,800      583,164

AsiaInfo Holdings, Inc.(a)

   22,700      382,495

Baidu.Com - ADR(a)

   2,700      476,820

Digital River, Inc.(a)

   17,900      533,778

eBay, Inc.(a)

   70,200      881,712

Google, Inc. - Class A(a)

   4,300      1,496,658

Open Text Corp.(a)

   32,700      1,126,188

Sina Corp.(a)

   16,300      378,975

VeriSign, Inc.(a)

   61,700      1,164,279

Yahoo!, Inc.(a)

   75,700      969,717
         
        7,993,786
         

IT Services — 0.9%

     

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.

   25,200      886,032
         

Office Electronics — 0.9%

     

Canon, Inc.

   17,100      498,496

Konica Corp.

   47,800      416,653
         
        915,149
         

Pharmaceuticals — 1.9%

     

Pfizer, Inc.

   28,800      392,256

Roche Holding AG

   8,800      302,720

Roche Holding AG - ADR

   1,900      260,775

Wyeth

   19,400      834,976
         
        1,790,727
         

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 22.5%

     

Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc.

   608,300      296,819

Altera Corp.

   46,600      817,830

Analog Devices, Inc.

   36,300      699,501

Applied Materials, Inc.

   252,100      2,710,075

ASM Pacific Technology Ltd.

   169,300      593,082

Atheros Communications, Inc.(a)

   25,100      367,966

ATMI, Inc.(a)

   22,900      353,347

Broadcom Corp. - Class A(a)

   57,800      1,154,844

Cavium Networks, Inc.(a)

   26,000      300,040

Disco Corp.

   10,300      257,122

Intel Corp.

   144,900      2,180,745

Intersil Corp. - Class A

   49,400      568,100

KLA-Tencor Corp.

   42,800      856,000

Lam Research Corp.(a)

   38,700      881,199

Linear Technology Corp.

   36,700      843,366

Marvell Technology Group Ltd.(a)

   85,100      779,516

Micron Technology, Inc.(a)

   61,900      251,314

National Semiconductor Corp.

   42,500      436,475

Netlogic Microsystems, Inc.(a)

   30,400      835,392

Novellus Systems, Inc.(a)

   37,900      630,277

PMC-Sierra, Inc.(a)

   72,600      463,188

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

   2,300      950,262

Siliconware Precision Industries Co. - ADR

   69,000      400,200

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - ADR

   93,535      837,138

Teradyne, Inc.(a)

   78,500      343,830

Texas Instruments, Inc.

   88,100      1,454,531

 

28

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value  

Common Stocks

     

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment (concluded)

     

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.(a)

   23,200    $ 502,512  

Xilinx, Inc.

   55,300      1,059,548  
           
        21,824,219  
           

Software — 17.7%

     

Adobe Systems, Inc.(a)

   48,000      1,026,720  

BMC Software, Inc.(a)

   43,500      1,435,500  

CA, Inc.

   41,300      727,293  

Check Point Software Technologies(a)

   25,400      564,134  

Citrix Systems, Inc.(a)

   59,800      1,353,872  

Electronic Arts, Inc.(a)

   24,600      447,474  

Intuit, Inc.(a)

   18,800      507,600  

Longtop Financial Technologies Ltd.(a)

   19,100      405,493  

McAfee, Inc.(a)

   49,900      1,671,650  

Microsoft Corp.

   69,600      1,278,552  

Nintendo Co. Ltd.

   1,400      409,545  

Oracle Corp.

   120,200      2,172,014  

Progress Software Corp.(a)

   31,600      548,576  

Red Hat, Inc.(a)

   39,400      702,896  

Salesforce.com, Inc.(a)

   13,000      425,490  

SAP AG – ADR

   12,600      444,654  

Sybase, Inc.(a)

   40,000      1,211,600  

Symantec Corp.(a)

   88,600      1,323,684  

Synopsys, Inc.(a)

   24,100      499,593  
           
        17,156,340  
           

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.0%

     

American Tower Corp. - Class A(a)

   29,000      882,470  

Bharti Tele-Ventures Ltd.(a)

   7,900      97,768  
           
        980,238  
           

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $115,837,837) — 94.6%

        91,740,899  
           
      Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
      

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(c)(d)

   4,994,153      4,994,153  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17%(c)(d)(e)

   1,261,500      1,261,500  
           

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $6,255,653) — 6.4%

        6,255,653  
           

Total Investments (Cost — $122,093,490*) — 101.0%

        97,996,552  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.0)%

        (972,917 )
           

Net Assets — 100.0%

      $ 97,023,635  
           

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 123,699,512  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 136,589  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (25,839,549 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (25,702,960 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 4,994,153 **   $ 5,562

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ 857,000 **   $ 3,851
** Represents net purchase cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

Foreign currency exchange contracts as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Currency

Purchased

  

Currency

Sold

  

Counterparty

  

Settlement
Date

   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

CHF

  384,000    USD   340,774    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09    $ (3,323 )

JPY

  17,886,000    USD   201,899    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (21,166 )

JPY

  14,883,000    USD   167,266    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      (16,878 )

USD

  692,510    CHF   778,000    UBS Securities, Inc.    4/15/09      8,820  

USD

  515,524    HKD   4,000,000    Goldman Sachs Bank USA    4/15/09      (611 )

USD

  286,672    JPY   28,309,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      618  

USD

  1,999,629    JPY   196,029,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      17,015  
                     

Total

         $ (15,525 )
                     

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009   

29


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio
  

 

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
   Other Financial
Instruments ***
 
     Assets    Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 93,426,003    $ —      $ —    

Level 2

     4,570,549      26,453      (41,978 )

Level 3

     —        —        —    
                      

Total

   $ 97,996,552    $ 26,453    $ (41,978 )
                      

 

*** Other financial instruments are foreign currency exchange contracts. Foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

30

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 1.4%

     

Alliant Techsystems, Inc.(a)

   127,100    $ 8,513,158

BE Aerospace, Inc.(a)

   225,500      1,955,085

Curtiss-Wright Corp.

   210,400      5,901,720
         
        16,369,963
         

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.2%

     

Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc.(a)

   161,100      2,795,085
         

Airlines — 0.6%

     

Airtran Holdings, Inc.(a)(b)

   875,300      3,982,615

USAirways Group, Inc.(a)

   1,204,300      3,046,879
         
        7,029,494
         

Auto Components — 0.6%

     

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.(a)

   1,026,400      6,425,264
         

Biotechnology — 1.2%

     

Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

   110,300      4,153,898

Celera Corp.(a)

   75,900      579,117

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)(b)

   339,300      9,748,089
         
        14,481,104
         

Capital Markets — 3.3%

     

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

   170,900      3,501,741

Greenhill & Co., Inc.(b)

   94,000      6,941,900

Invesco Ltd.

   501,000      6,943,860

Knight Capital Group, Inc. - Class A(a)

   255,500      3,766,070

Northern Trust Corp.

   77,300      4,624,086

Stifel Financial Corp.

   66,300      2,871,453

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.(a)

   256,200      3,538,122

Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc. - Class A

   334,100      6,037,187
         
        38,224,419
         

Chemicals — 1.5%

     

Airgas, Inc.

   305,700      10,335,717

The Mosaic Co.

   166,100      6,972,878
         
        17,308,595
         

Commercial Banks — 3.3%

     

BB&T Corp.(b)

   125,500      2,123,460

City National Corp.

   73,600      2,485,472

Commerce Bancshares, Inc.

   108,620      3,942,906

First Horizon National Corp.(b)

   547,867      5,884,091

Fulton Financial Corp.(b)

   152,300      1,009,749

Iberiabank Corp.

   35,900      1,649,246

Investors Bancorp, Inc.

   206,500      1,749,055

KeyCorp

   380,300      2,992,961

M&T Bank Corp.(b)

   36,500      1,651,260

Marshall & IIsley Corp.(b)

   487,000      2,741,810

PacWest Bancorp

   134,100      1,921,653

Regions Financial Corp.

   690,700      2,942,382

TCF Financial Corp.(b)

   190,800      2,243,808

UMB Financial Corp.

   54,900      2,332,701

Zions Bancorp(b)

   291,500      2,865,445
         
        38,535,999
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.4%

     

Avery Dennison Corp.

   212,300      4,742,782

The GEO Group, Inc.(a)

   291,100      3,857,075

Iron Mountain, Inc.(a)

   371,500      8,236,155
         
        16,836,012
         

Communications Equipment — 1.7%

     

Harris Corp.

   242,600      7,020,844

Juniper Networks, Inc.(a)

   254,800      3,837,288

Tekelec(a)

   537,200      7,107,156

Tellabs, Inc.(a)

   405,700      1,858,106
         
        19,823,394
         

Computers & Peripherals — 0.5%

     

Western Digital Corp.(a)

   285,400      5,519,636
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.5%

     

Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.(a)

   141,300      5,462,658
         

Containers & Packaging — 1.0%

     

Crown Holdings, Inc.(a)

   487,900      11,089,967
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.8%

     

Apollo Group, Inc. - Class A(a)

   61,800      4,840,794

ITT Educational Services, Inc.(a)

   40,600      4,929,652
         
        9,770,446
         

Diversified Financial Services — 1.0%

     

IntercontinentalExchange, Inc.(a)

   75,300      5,607,591

The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.(a)

   303,000      5,932,740
         
        11,540,331
         

Electric Utilities — 1.1%

     

DPL, Inc.

   416,000      9,376,640

NV Energy, Inc.

   404,200      3,795,438
         
        13,172,078
         

Electrical Equipment — 0.8%

     

GrafTech International Ltd.(a)

   810,700      4,993,912

Thomas & Betts Corp.(a)

   165,100      4,130,802
         
        9,124,714
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 1.2%

     

Amphenol Corp. - Class A

   263,900      7,518,511

Plexus Corp.(a)

   241,600      3,338,912

SYNNEX Corp.(a)(b)

   140,900      2,771,503
         
        13,628,926
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 2.4%

     

BJ Services Co.

   584,900      5,819,755

Cameron International Corp.(a)

   206,300      4,524,159

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

   165,000      3,757,050

Pride International, Inc.(a)

   254,100      4,568,718

Smith International, Inc.

   181,100      3,890,028

Weatherford International Ltd.(a)

   505,000      5,590,350
         
        28,150,060
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 0.5%

     

Safeway, Inc.

   211,900      4,278,261

SUPERVALU, Inc.

   129,300      1,846,404
         
        6,124,665
         

Food Products — 3.6%

     

Bunge Ltd.(b)

   100,800      5,710,320

Flowers Foods, Inc.

   290,300      6,816,244

Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc.(a)

   168,800      2,771,696

The J.M. Smucker Co.

   151,100      5,631,497

McCormick & Co., Inc.

   109,500      3,237,915

Ralcorp Holdings, Inc.(a)

   114,800      6,185,424

Smithfield Foods, Inc.(a)(b)

   272,600      2,578,796

TreeHouse Foods, Inc.(a)

   304,300      8,760,797
         
        41,692,689
         

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    31


Schedule of Investments (continued)    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Gas Utilities — 1.8%

     

AGL Resources, Inc.

   214,900    $ 5,701,297

CMS Energy Corp.

   435,000      5,150,400

Xcel Energy, Inc.

   556,400      10,365,732
         
        21,217,429
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 3.1%

     

Beckman Coulter, Inc.

   233,100      11,890,431

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

   134,300      9,030,332

Gen-Probe, Inc.(a)

   140,500      6,403,990

Hologic, Inc.(a)

   46,200      604,758

Immucor, Inc.(a)

   277,100      6,969,065

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

   19,800      649,638
         
        35,548,214
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 4.8%

     

AMERIGROUP Corp.(a)

   68,200      1,878,228

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

   459,500      15,007,270

Coventry Health Care, Inc.(a)

   82,400      1,066,256

DaVita, Inc.(a)

   393,600      17,298,720

Express Scripts, Inc.(a)

   172,600      7,968,942

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings(a)

   35,500      2,076,395

McKesson Corp.

   178,000      6,237,120

MEDNAX, Inc.(a)

   36,100      1,063,867

VCA Antech, Inc.(a)(b)

   161,400      3,639,570
         
        56,236,368
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.5%

     

Bally Technologies, Inc.(a)

   147,600      2,718,792

Burger King Holdings, Inc.

   299,800      6,880,410

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. - Class A(a)

   36,500      2,422,870

Life Time Fitness, Inc.(b)

   238,800      2,999,328

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.(b)

   353,300      2,829,933
         
        17,851,333
         

Household Durables — 1.5%

     

Fortune Brands, Inc.

   127,200      3,122,760

Jarden Corp.(a)(b)

   408,000      5,169,360

Toll Brothers, Inc.(a)(b)

   395,700      7,185,912

Whirlpool Corp.(b)

   62,500      1,849,375
         
        17,327,407
         

Insurance — 4.4%

     

Allied World Assurance Co. Holdings Ltd.

   76,100      2,894,083

AON Corp.

   115,200      4,702,464

Assurant, Inc.

   155,900      3,395,502

AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd.

   148,700      3,351,698

Cincinnati Financial Corp.

   128,200      2,931,934

Everest Re Group Ltd.

   33,400      2,364,720

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

   127,800      3,683,196

IPC Holdings Ltd.

   108,700      2,939,248

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   96,000      2,722,560

Principal Financial Group, Inc.

   216,600      1,771,788

ProAssurance Corp.

   77,500      3,613,050

RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd.

   69,800      3,450,912

Torchmark Corp.

   68,000      1,783,640

Unum Group

   147,600      1,845,000

Validus Holdings Ltd.

   117,400      2,780,032

W.R. Berkley Corp.

   149,400      3,368,970

XL Capital Ltd.

   691,100      3,773,406
         
        51,372,203
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.7%

     

priceline.com, Inc.(a)(b)

   97,100      7,649,538
         

Internet Software & Services — 1.8%

     

Ariba, Inc.(a)

   650,300      5,677,119

Digital River, Inc.(a)

   198,200      5,910,324

VeriSign, Inc.(a)

   466,700      8,806,629
         
        20,394,072
         

IT Services — 0.6%

     

SAIC, Inc.(a)

   397,800      7,426,926
         

Leisure Equipment & Products — 0.2%

     

Jakks Pacific, Inc.(a)

   230,900      2,851,615
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 1.0%

     

Millipore Corp.(a)(b)

   66,500      3,817,765

Qiagen NV(a)

   487,300      7,777,308
         
        11,595,073
         

Machinery — 3.4%

     

Bucyrus International, Inc.

   288,400      4,377,912

Cummins, Inc.

   170,400      4,336,680

Flowserve Corp.

   82,400      4,624,288

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.

   123,200      3,904,208

SPX Corp.

   118,700      5,580,087

Terex Corp.(a)

   429,600      3,973,800

Timken Co.

   312,300      4,359,708

Trinity Industries, Inc.(b)

   415,000      3,793,100

Wabtec Corp.

   175,000      4,616,500
         
        39,566,283
         

Marine — 0.3%

     

Eagle Bulk Shipping, Inc.(b)

   841,400      3,575,950
         

Media — 1.8%

     

CBS Corp. - Class B

   626,200      2,404,608

Liberty Media Corp. - Entertainment - Series A(a)

   602,200      12,013,890

Lions Gate Entertainment Corp.(a)

   548,500      2,769,925

Marvel Entertainment, Inc.(a)

   146,500      3,889,575
         
        21,077,998
         

Metals & Mining — 3.2%

     

Commercial Metals Co.

   555,600      6,417,180

Kinross Gold Corp.

   226,100      4,040,407

Nucor Corp.

   167,400      6,389,658

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.

   242,300      6,379,759

Royal Gold, Inc.(b)

   179,300      8,384,068

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

   628,200      5,534,442
         
        37,145,514
         

Multiline Retail — 1.1%

     

Family Dollar Stores, Inc.

   154,900      5,169,013

Macy’s, Inc.

   383,500      3,413,150

Nordstrom, Inc.(b)

   259,700      4,349,975
         
        12,932,138
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 4.8%

     

Arch Coal, Inc.

   393,400      5,259,758

Arena Resources, Inc.(a)

   111,600      2,843,568

Chesapeake Energy Corp.

   317,200      5,411,432

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   133,900      3,379,636

Continental Resources, Inc.(a)(b)

   268,300      5,690,643

Denbury Resources, Inc.(a)

   298,200      4,431,252

Murphy Oil Corp.

   65,600      2,936,912

Noble Energy, Inc.

   75,900      4,089,492

Peabody Energy Corp.

   189,500      4,745,080

PetroHawk Energy Corp.(a)

   256,600      4,934,418

Range Resources Corp.

   103,600      4,264,176

 

32

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

     

Southwestern Energy Co.(a)

   134,700    $ 3,999,243

Ultra Petroleum Corp.(a)(b)

   99,200      3,560,288
         
        55,545,898
         

Professional Services — 1.9%

     

The Dun & Bradstreet Corp.

   121,200      9,332,400

Robert Half International, Inc.

   318,500      5,678,855

Watson Wyatt Worldwide, Inc. - Class A

   132,200      6,526,714
         
        21,537,969
         

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 3.5%

     

AMB Property Corp.

   245,500      3,535,200

AvalonBay Communities, Inc.(b)

   96,660      4,548,819

Boston Properties, Inc.(b)

   70,000      2,452,100

Equity Residential

   86,800      1,592,780

Essex Property Trust, Inc.

   33,400      1,915,156

Health Care REIT, Inc.

   76,700      2,346,253

Hospitality Properties Trust

   143,700      1,724,400

Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

   353,500      1,385,720

Kimco Realty Corp.

   197,900      1,507,998

The Macerich Co.(b)

   192,800      1,206,928

Plum Creek Timber Co., Inc.(b)

   143,100      4,159,917

Rayonier, Inc.

   165,200      4,992,344

Taubman Centers, Inc.(b)

   206,900      3,525,576

Ventas, Inc.

   90,300      2,041,683

Vornado Realty Trust

   1,129      37,528

Washington Real Estate Investment Trust

   226,900      3,925,370
         
        40,897,772
         

Road & Rail — 1.5%

     

Heartland Express, Inc.(b)

   386,700      5,727,027

Knight Transportation, Inc.(b)

   306,200      4,641,992

Werner Enterprises, Inc.

   475,400      7,188,048
         
        17,557,067
         

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 5.5%

     

Altera Corp.

   332,500      5,835,375

Analog Devices, Inc.

   309,300      5,960,211

Cavium Networks, Inc.(a)(b)

   83,000      957,820

Hittite Microwave Corp.(a)

   201,300      6,280,560

Intersil Corp. - Class A

   361,800      4,160,700

National Semiconductor Corp.

   448,900      4,610,203

Netlogic Microsystems, Inc.(a)(b)

   322,900      8,873,292

Novellus Systems, Inc.(a)

   363,200      6,040,016

PMC-Sierra, Inc.(a)

   1,522,800      9,715,464

Teradyne, Inc.(a)

   922,200      4,039,236

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.(a)

   320,900      6,950,694
         
        63,423,571
         

Software — 4.8%

     

Advent Software, Inc.(a)

   122,500      4,080,475

BMC Software, Inc.(a)

   276,600      9,127,800

Citrix Systems, Inc.(a)

   229,300      5,191,352

McAfee, Inc.(a)

   227,800      7,631,300

Quest Software, Inc.(a)

   125,347      1,589,400

Salesforce.com, Inc.(a)

   169,200      5,537,916

Solera Holdings, Inc.(a)

   270,900      6,712,902

Sybase, Inc.(a)

   348,400      10,553,036

TIBCO Software, Inc.(a)

   1,023,500      6,007,945
         
        56,432,126
         

Specialty Retail — 4.2%

     

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

   462,400      5,659,776

Chico’s FAS, Inc.(a)

   1,047,300      5,624,001

Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.(a)

   385,800      5,505,366

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

   208,100      2,907,157

Guess?, Inc.

   266,400      5,615,712

J. Crew Group, Inc.(a)(b)

   173,600      2,288,048

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc.(a)

   162,800      5,699,628

Penske Auto Group, Inc.

   302,400      2,821,392

Ross Stores, Inc.

   167,100      5,995,548

Urban Outfitters, Inc.(a)

   408,800      6,692,056
         
        48,808,684
         

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 1.1%

     

Iconix Brand Group, Inc.(a)

   561,100      4,965,735

VF Corp.

   140,000      7,995,400
         
        12,961,135
         

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 1.9%

     

Brookline Bancorp, Inc.

   181,200      1,721,400

Capitol Federal Financial

   85,000      3,213,850

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

   208,300      2,270,470

Hudson City Bancorp, Inc.

   380,200      4,444,538

New York Community Bancorp, Inc.(b)

   130,600      1,458,802

People’s United Financial, Inc.

   368,800      6,627,336

Washington Federal, Inc.

   172,100      2,287,209
         
        22,023,605
         

Tobacco — 0.5%

     

Lorillard, Inc.

   99,000      6,112,260
         

Water Utilities — 0.3%

     

American States Water Co.

   80,600      2,927,392
         

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 1.5%

     

American Tower Corp. - Class A(a)

   268,700      8,176,541

SBA Communications Corp. - Class A(a)

   395,800      9,222,140
         
        17,398,681
         

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $1,157,637,681) — 91.3%

        1,062,499,720
         
      Shares/
Beneficial
Interest
    

Short-Term Securities

     

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(c)(d)

   50,000,000      50,000,000

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17%(c)(d)(e)

   112,805,750      112,805,750

TCW Money Market Fund, 0.31%(d)

   44,741,933      44,741,933
         

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $207,547,683) — 17.8%

        207,547,683
         

Total Investments Before Options Written
(Cost — $1,365,185,364*) — 109.1%

        1,270,047,403
         

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    33


Schedule of Investments (concluded)    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Contracts     Value  

Options Written

    

Exchange-Traded Call Options Written

    

Torchmark Corp., Strike Price $30, Expires 4/21/09
(Premiums Received — $44,116) — (0.0)%

   (328 )   $ (20,500 )
          

Total Investments Net of Outstanding Options Written — 109.1%

       1,270,026,903  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (9.1)%

       (105,602,684 )
          

Net Assets — 100.0%

     $ 1,164,424,219  
          
* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 1,366,521,716  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 42,853,568  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (139,327,881 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (96,474,313 )
        

 

(a) Non-income producing security.

 

(b) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(c) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 20,000,000 **   $ 607,335

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ 33,444,250 **   $ 563,392

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

(d) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(e) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

 

Financial futures contracts purchased as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Contracts

   Issue    Expiration
Date
   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Appreciation

1,001

   Russell ICE MINI    June 2009    $ 42,172,130    $ 3,520,668
                   

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes, and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”. FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
   Other Financial
Instruments ***
 
     Assets    Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 1,270,047,403    $ 3,520,668    $ —    

Level 2

     —        —        (20,500 )

Level 3

     —        —        —    
                      

Total

   $ 1,270,047,403    $ 3,520,668    $ (20,500 )
                      

 

*** Other financial instruments are futures contracts and options written. Futures contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument and options written are shown at market value.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

34

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Assets and Liabilities

 

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Global
Opportunities
Portfolio
    Health
Sciences
Opportunities
Portfolio
    International
Opportunities
Portfolio
    Science
& Technology
Opportunities
Portfolio
    U.S.
Opportunities
Portfolio
 

Assets

          

Investments at value - unaffiliated1,2

   $ 48,832,685     $ 776,608,648     $ 833,915,353     $ 91,740,899     $ 1,107,241,653  

Investments at value - affiliated3

     190,812       28,398,364       1,740,000       6,255,653       162,805,750  

Cash

     288,828       212       9,233       —         4,731  

Cash collateral pledged for futures contracts

     117,270       —         8,956,053       —         6,443,000  

Cash collateral pledged for options written contracts

     —         2,020,850       —         —         —    

Foreign currency at value4

     808,473       4,176,833       6,598,046       576,704       —    

Unrealized appreciation on foreign currency exchange contracts

     133,782       1,173,853       2,742,063       26,453       —    

Investments sold receivable

     185,011       18,497,034       3,359,375       825,409       12,559,256  

Capital shares sold receivable

     163,545       2,190,380       2,713,529       177,963       11,206,966  

Dividends and reclaims receivable

     119,506       1,075,016       3,376,835       68,835       887,342  

Receivable from advisor

     7,869       —         7,248       47,010       57,120  

Securities lending income receivable - affiliated

     —         12,274       682       4,345       52,063  

Dividends receivable - affiliated

     439       10,973       2,552       2,829       33,971  

Margin variation receivable

     —         —         1,276,515       —         653,796  

Prepaid expenses

     40,968       100,175       130,805       58,777       145,456  

Other assets

     —         245       90,130       —         67,441  
                                        

Total assets

     50,889,188       834,264,857       864,918,419       99,784,877       1,302,158,545  
                                        

Liabilities

          

Collateral at value - securities loaned

     —         17,354,250       1,740,000       1,261,500       112,805,750  

Options written at value5

     —         61,960       —         —         20,500  

Bank overdraft - affiliated

     —         —         —         3,659       —    

Unrealized depreciation on foreign currency exchange contracts

     228,669       648,102       6,548,101       41,978       —    

Investments purchased payable

     381,021       12,644,546       6,952,874       776,945       20,046,295  

Capital share redeemed payable

     234,510       3,138,829       3,545,382       334,524       3,397,408  

Other affiliates payable

     93,327       595,645       531,603       224,459       336,190  

Investment advisory fees payable

     30,670       499,586       684,844       70,247       780,121  

Service and distribution fees payable

     17,483       326,330       203,715       30,728       232,890  

Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

     6,448       9,628       9,631       6,596       7,052  

Margin variation payable

     —         —         655,010       —         —    

Other accrued expenses payable

     39,049       208,482       210,173       10,606       108,120  
                                        

Total liabilities

     1,031,177       35,487,358       21,081,333       2,761,242       137,734,326  
                                        

Net Assets

   $ 49,858,011     $ 798,777,499     $ 843,837,086     $ 97,023,635     $ 1,164,424,219  
                                        

Net Assets Consist of

          

Paid-in capital

   $ 91,671,745     $ 915,898,117     $ 1,371,200,866     $ 439,122,267     $ 1,625,819,721  

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

     1,208,218       (2,632,767 )     23,041,388       (495,708 )     5,574,961  

Accumulated net realized loss

     (31,415,888 )     (72,505,788 )     (379,909,783 )     (317,483,358 )     (375,376,786 )

Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (11,606,064 )     (41,982,063 )     (170,495,385 )     (24,119,566 )     (91,593,677 )
                                        

Net Assets

   $ 49,858,011     $ 798,777,499     $ 843,837,086     $ 97,023,635     $ 1,164,424,219  
                                        

1 Investments at cost - unaffiliated

   $ 60,330,213     $ 819,170,354     $ 1,003,636,968     $ 115,837,837     $ 1,202,379,614  

2 Securities loaned at value

     —       $ 16,847,047     $ 1,714,480     $ 1,238,460     $ 111,467,290  

3 Investments at cost - affiliated

   $ 190,812     $ 28,398,364     $ 1,740,000     $ 6,255,653     $ 162,805,750  

4 Foreign currency at cost

   $ 820,658     $ 4,198,872     $ 6,093,578     $ 583,274       —    

5 Premiums received - options written

     —       $ 153,339       —         —       $ 44,116  

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    35


Statements of Assets and Liabilities (concluded)

 

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Global
Opportunities
Portfolio
   Health
Sciences
Opportunities
Portfolio
   International
Opportunities
Portfolio
   Science
& Technology
Opportunities
Portfolio
   U.S.
Opportunities
Portfolio

Net Asset Value

              

Institutional:

              

Net Assets

   $ 11,263,451    $ 136,110,656    $ 325,250,863    $ 18,637,998    $ 436,844,348
                                  

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     1,609,658      6,406,090      15,595,942      3,387,902      19,242,003
                                  

Net Asset Value

   $ 7.00    $ 21.25    $ 20.85    $ 5.50    $ 22.70
                                  

Service:

              

Net Assets

     —      $ 5,406,046    $ 47,325,003    $ 58,643    $ 115,438,046
                                  

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     —        259,511      2,348,820      10,962      5,280,836
                                  

Net Asset Value

     —      $ 20.83    $ 20.15    $ 5.35    $ 21.86
                                  

Investor A:

              

Net Assets

   $ 24,979,819    $ 382,337,311    $ 332,711,863    $ 56,037,991    $ 465,955,123
                                  

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     3,593,125      18,386,748      16,653,197      10,588,615      21,531,507
                                  

Net Asset Value

   $ 6.95    $ 20.79    $ 19.98    $ 5.29    $ 21.64
                                  

Investor B:

              

Net Assets

   $ 3,213,901    $ 54,627,520    $ 24,238,152    $ 6,076,140    $ 15,267,399
                                  

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     470,567      2,771,111      1,303,601      1,231,950      764,280
                                  

Net Asset Value

   $ 6.83    $ 19.71    $ 18.59    $ 4.93    $ 19.98
                                  

Investor C:

              

Net Assets

   $ 10,400,840    $ 220,295,966    $ 114,311,205    $ 14,959,078    $ 130,919,303
                                  

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     1,524,680      11,194,604      6,166,254      3,033,846      6,557,364
                                  

Net Asset Value

   $ 6.82    $ 19.68    $ 18.54    $ 4.93    $ 19.97
                                  

R:

              

Net Assets

     —        —        —      $ 1,253,785      —  
                                  

Shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

     —        —        —        229,101      —  
                                  

Net Asset Value

     —        —        —      $ 5.47      —  
                                  

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

36

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statements of Operations

 

Six Months Ended March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

   Global
Opportunities
Portfolio
    Health Sciences
Opportunities
Portfolio
    International
Opportunities
Portfolio
    Science &
Technology
Opportunities
Portfolio
    U.S.
Opportunities
Portfolio
 

Investment Income

          

Dividends and reclaims

   $ 591,103     $ 5,662,453     $ 12,408,468     $ 622,420     $ 8,554,407  

Interest

     9,895       20,329       51,537       3,967       55,808  

Interest and dividends - affiliated

     2,110       305,712       447,116       5,965       608,712  

Securities lending - affiliated

     —         104,546       13,865       3,851       563,392  

Foreign taxes withheld

     (21,843 )     (172,850 )     (666,291 )     (8,052 )     —    
                                        

Total investment income

     581,265       5,920,190       12,254,695       628,151       9,782,319  
                                        

Expenses

          

Investment advisory

     276,334       3,284,046       4,369,844       474,274       5,330,522  

Service and distribution - class specific

     112,053       2,036,007       1,263,173       187,461       1,308,311  

Transfer agent - class specific

     70,265       961,445       1,155,007       526,643       1,020,774  

Custodian

     36,058       39,762       343,972       15,264       42,581  

Administration

     23,028       309,406       308,737       39,523       338,582  

Professional

     17,914       30,642       39,206       19,816       24,340  

Printing

     15,734       178,294       209,002       20,730       157,294  

Registration

     14,740       35,790       53,130       24,458       64,158  

Officer and Trustees

     7,900       13,005       13,611       8,056       13,232  

Administration - class specific

     7,697       109,683       109,445       13,191       120,928  

Miscellaneous

     12,667       23,742       37,462       8,855       15,124  
                                        

Total expenses

     594,390       7,021,822       7,902,589       1,338,271       8,435,846  

Less fees waived by advisor

     (7,035 )     (17,750 )     (24,712 )     (528 )     (1,131,298 )

Less administration fees waived - class specific

     (7,251 )     —         (15,638 )     (13,191 )     (50,279 )

Less transfer agent fees waived - class specific

     (5,006 )     —         (3,135 )     (9,475 )     (7,602 )

Less transfer agent fees reimbursed - class specific

     (38,873 )     —         (32,476 )     (338,459 )     (250,227 )

Less fees paid indirectly

     (180 )     (2,125 )     (1,964 )     (460 )     (2,551 )
                                        

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     536,045       7,001,947       7,824,664       976,158       6,993,889  
                                        

Net investment income (loss)

     45,220       (1,081,757 )     4,430,031       (348,007 )     2,788,430  
                                        

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

          

Net realized gain (loss) from:

          

Investments

     (25,847,298 )     (82,379,773 )     (304,880,181 )     (26,369,862 )     (255,312,230 )

Options written

     4,200       4,145,119       —         —         335,945  

Futures

     (1,441,339 )     —         (41,817,587 )     —         (49,564,243 )

Foreign currency transactions

     (1,321,218 )     7,631,699       (22,696,746 )     (301,826 )     —    
                                        
     (28,605,655 )     (70,602,955 )     (369,394,514 )     (26,671,688 )     (304,540,528 )
                                        

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on:

          

Investments

     (1,715,608 )     (128,211,160 )     (14,160,222 )     (5,709,633 )     (23,952,579 )

Options written

     —         91,379       —         —         23,616  

Futures

     318,710       —         5,649,505       —         6,073,400  

Foreign currency transactions

     1,314,078       (4,596,463 )     17,427,886       (98,081 )     —    
                                        
     (82,820 )     (132,716,244 )     8,917,169       (5,807,714 )     (17,855,563 )
                                        

Total realized and unrealized loss

     (28,688,475 )     (203,319,199 )     (360,477,345 )     (32,479,402 )     (322,396,091 )
                                        

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

   $ (28,643,255 )   $ (204,400,956 )   $ (356,047,314 )   $ (32,827,409 )   $ (319,607,661 )
                                        

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    37


Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

     Global
Opportunities
Portfolio
    Health Sciences
Opportunities
Portfolio
 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:

   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended

March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 

Operations

        

Net investment income (loss)

   $ 45,220     $ 462,173     $ (1,081,757 )   $ (3,279,561 )

Net realized gain (loss)

     (28,605,655 )     (361,669 )     (70,602,955 )     94,473,824  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (82,820 )     (27,365,968 )     (132,716,244 )     (122,613,081 )
                                

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

     (28,643,255 )     (27,265,464 )     (204,400,956 )     (31,418,818 )
                                

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From

        

Net investment income:

        

Institutional

     (13,294 )     (516,368 )     —         —    

Service

     —         —         —         —    

Investor A

     —         (438,794 )     —         —    

Investor B

     —         (18,976 )     —         —    

Investor C

     —         (63,696 )     —         —    

Net realized gain:

        

Institutional

     —         (1,500,686 )     (14,779,840 )     (6,907,979 )

Service

     —         —         (476,833 )     (294,520 )

Investor A

     —         (1,612,774 )     (41,129,678 )     (26,251,005 )

Investor B

     —         (310,579 )     (5,993,765 )     (2,732,260 )

Investor C

     —         (756,979 )     (22,988,455 )     (11,313,900 )
                                

Decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and distributions to shareholders

     (13,294 )     (5,218,852 )     (85,368,571 )     (47,499,664 )
                                

Capital Share Transactions

        

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

     (19,381,206 )     28,333,404       (53,426,419 )     (116,325,620 )
                                

Redemption Fees

        

Redemption fees

     2,676       8,217       49,591       38,516  
                                

Net Assets

        

Total increase (decrease) in net assets

     (48,035,079 )     (4,142,695 )     (343,146,355 )     (195,205,586 )

Beginning of period

     97,893,090       102,035,785       1,141,923,854       1,337,129,440  
                                

End of period

   $ 49,858,011     $ 97,893,090     $ 798,777,499     $ 1,141,923,854  
                                

End of period undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income (loss)

   $ 1,208,218     $ 1,176,292     $ (2,632,767 )   $ (1,551,010 )
                                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

38

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


International Opportunities Portfolio     Science & Technology Opportunities
Portfolio
    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio  

Six Months

Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)

    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 
         
$ 4,430,031     $ 11,548,174     $ (348,007 )   $ (524,742 )   $ 2,788,430     $ (1,731,225 )
  (369,394,514 )     38,698,096       (26,671,688 )     (677,640 )     (304,540,528 )     (11,717,699 )
  8,917,169       (598,796,282 )     (5,807,714 )     (18,195,547 )     (17,855,563 )     (147,024,317 )
                                             
  (356,047,314 )     (548,550,012 )     (32,827,409 )     (19,397,929 )     (319,607,661 )     (160,473,241 )
                                             
         
         
  (1,523,480 )     (11,844,156 )     —         —         (60,616 )     —    
  —         (3,649,556 )     —         —         —         —    
  (153,036 )     (11,746,350 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (1,437,329 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (3,891,839 )     —         —         —         —    
         
  —         (70,893,490 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (25,020,162 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (81,040,060 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (15,320,494 )     —         —         —         —    
  —         (39,325,420 )     —         —         —         —    
                                             
  (1,676,516 )     (264,168,856 )     —         —         (60,616 )     —    
                                             
         
  (33,015,788 )     468,735,342       (20,643,641 )     127,894,166       413,759,593       675,253,305  
                                             
         
  83,062       105,456       4,847       4,608       208,633       64,821  
                                             
         
  (390,656,556 )     (343,878,070 )     (53,466,203 )     108,500,845       94,299,949       514,844,885  
  1,234,493,642       1,578,371,712       150,489,838       41,988,993       1,070,124,270       555,279,385  
                                             
$ 843,837,086     $ 1,234,493,642     $ 97,023,635     $ 150,489,838     $ 1,164,424,219     $ 1,070,124,270  
                                             
$ 23,041,388     $ 20,287,873     $ (495,708 )   $ (147,701 )   $ 5,574,961     $ 2,847,147  
                                             

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    39


Financial Highlights    Global Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Institutional  
  Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
    Period
January 31, 2006to
September 30, 2006
 
    2008     2007    

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.96     $ 13.31     $ 10.10     $ 10.00  
                               

Net investment income2

    0.02       0.09       0.09       0.08  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.97 )     (2.77 )     3.21       0.01  
                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.95 )     (2.68 )     3.30       0.09  
                               

Dividends and distributions from:

       

Net investment income

    (0.01 )     (0.17 )     (0.09 )     —    

Net realized gain

    —         (0.50 )     —         —    
                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.01 )     (0.67 )     (0.09 )     —    
                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01  
                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 7.00     $ 9.96     $ 13.31     $ 10.10  
                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (29.67 )%4,5     (21.16 )%4     32.81 %4     1.00 %5,6
                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.35 %7     1.32 %     1.29 %     1.35 %7
                               

Total expenses

    1.51 %7     1.33 %     1.32 %     2.25 %7
                               

Net investment income

    0.51 %7     0.77 %     0.78 %     1.13 %7
                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 11,263     $ 36,625     $ 35,679     $ 9,099  
                               

Portfolio turnover

    96 %     181 %     107 %     110 %
                               

 

    Investor A     Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
    Period
January 31, 2006to
September 30, 2006
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
    Period
January 31, 2006to
September 30, 2006
 
    2008     2007         2008     2007    

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.92     $ 13.27     $ 10.08     $ 10.00     $ 9.83     $ 13.16     $ 10.03     $ 10.00  
                                                               

Net investment income (loss)2

    0.01       0.06       0.04       0.05       (0.02 )     (0.04 )     (0.04 )     0.00 8

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.98 )     (2.77 )     3.22       0.02       (2.98 )     (2.76 )     3.22       0.02  
                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.97 )     (2.71 )     3.26       0.07       (3.00 )     (2.80 )     3.18       0.02  
                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

               

Net investment income

    —         (0.14 )     (0.07 )     —         —         (0.03 )     (0.05 )     —    

Net realized gain

    —         (0.50 )     —         —         —         (0.50 )     —         —    
                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (0.64 )     (0.07 )     —         —         (0.53 )     (0.05 )     —    
                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01       0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01  
                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.95     $ 9.92     $ 13.27     $ 10.08     $ 6.83     $ 9.83     $ 13.16     $ 10.03  
                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value9

    (29.94 )%4,5     (21.44 )%4     32.51 %4     0.80 %5,6     (30.52 )%4,5     (22.13 )%4     31.79 %4     0.30 %5,6
                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.65 %7     1.60 %     1.56 %     1.65 %7     2.40 %7     2.36 %     2.33 %     2.40 %7
                                                               

Total expenses

    1.83 %7     1.60 %     1.68 %     2.84 %7     2.70 %7     2.37 %     3.06 %     4.95 %7
                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.26 %7     0.49 %     0.36 %     0.70 %7     (0.48 )%7     (0.30 )%     (0.39 )%     (0.05 )%7
                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 24,980     $ 37,529     $ 40,467     $ 23,097     $ 3,214     $ 5,665     $ 7,673     $ 4,907  
                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    96 %     181 %     107 %     110 %     96 %     181 %     107 %     110 %
                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

40

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Global Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor C  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
    Period
January 31, 2006to
September 30, 2006
 
    2008     2007    

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.82     $ 13.16     $ 10.03     $ 10.00  
                               

Net investment income (loss)2

    (0.02 )     (0.03 )     (0.05 )     0.00 3

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.98 )     (2.77 )     3.23       0.02  
                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (3.00 )     (2.80 )     3.18       0.02  
                               

Dividends and distributions from:

       

Net investment income

    —         (0.04 )     (0.05 )     —    

Net realized gain

    —         (0.50 )     —         —    
                               

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (0.54 )     (0.05 )     —    
                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     0.01  
                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 6.82     $ 9.82     $ 13.16     $ 10.03  
                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value9

    (30.55 )%4,5     (22.14 )%4     31.76 %4     0.30 %5,6
                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.40 %7     2.37 %     2.35 %     2.40 %7
                               

Total expenses

    2.63 %7     2.38 %     2.42 %     3.38 %7
                               

Net investment loss

    (0.48 )%7     (0.26 )%     (0.40 )%     (0.01 )%7
                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 10,401     $ 18,074     $ 18,217     $ 10,012  
                               

Portfolio turnover

    96 %     181 %     107 %     110 %
                               

 

1 Commencement of operations.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.10%.

 

7 Annualized.

 

8 Net investment income (loss) is less than $0.005 per share.

 

9 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    41


Financial Highlights (continued)    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Institutional  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 28, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 29, 2004
 
    2008     2007     2006        

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.77     $ 30.41     $ 26.18     $ 24.45     $ 20.50     $ 21.15     $ 11.64  
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    0.04 1     0.08 1     0.06 1     0.04 1     (0.06 )1     (0.15 )     (0.06 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (5.14 )     (0.49 )     4.52       2.30       4.02       0.57       10.21  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (5.10 )     (0.41 )     4.58       2.34       3.96       0.42       10.15  
                                                       

Distributions from net realized gain

    (2.42 )     (1.23 )     (0.35 )     (0.62 )     (0.01 )     (1.07 )     (0.64 )
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 21.25     $ 28.77     $ 30.41     $ 26.18     $ 24.45     $ 20.50     $ 21.15  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (17.63 )%3,4     (1.64 )%3     17.68 %3     9.77 %5     19.32 %3,4     1.84 %     87.73 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.03 %6     1.00 %     1.02 %     1.01 %     1.25 %6     1.25 %     1.25 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    1.03 %6     1.00 %     1.02 %     1.01 %     1.37 %6     1.37 %     1.84 %
                                                       

Net investment income (loss)

    0.32 %6     0.28 %     0.21 %     0.17 %     (0.47 )%6     (0.59 )%     (0.38 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 136,111     $ 185,933     $ 172,902     $ 112,563     $ 31,229     $ 4,262     $ 5,067  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    72 %     91 %     98 %     157 %     77 %     173 %     106 %
                                                       

 

    Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Period
January 28, 2005to
February 28, 2005
 
    2008     2007     2006      

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.20     $ 29.85     $ 25.78     $ 24.15     $ 20.24     $ 20.30  
                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.00 )1,2     (0.02 )1     (0.02 )1     (0.03 )1     (0.12 )1     (0.01 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (5.04 )     (0.49 )     4.44       2.27       4.04       (0.05 )
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (5.04 )     (0.51 )     4.42       2.24       3.92       (0.06 )
                                               

Distributions from net realized gain

    (2.33 )     (1.14 )     (0.35 )     (0.62 )     (0.01 )     —    
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 20.83     $ 28.20     $ 29.85     $ 25.78     $ 24.15     $ 20.24  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (17.79 )%3,4     (1.98 )%3     17.33 %3     9.47 %5     19.37 %3,4     (0.30 )%4
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.39 %6     1.35 %     1.30 %     1.34 %     1.55 %6     0.82 %6
                                               

Total expenses

    1.39 %6     1.35 %     1.32 %     1.34 %     1.64 %6     0.82 %6
                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.02 )%6     (0.06 )%     (0.08 )%     (0.12 )%     (0.90 )%6     (0.70 )%6
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 5,406     $ 5,764     $ 7,806     $ 4,347     $ 66     $   8
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    72 %     91 %     98 %     157 %     77 %     173 %
                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

42

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor A  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 28, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 29, 2004
 
    2008     2007     2006        

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.14     $ 29.77     $ 25.72     $ 24.11     $ 20.24     $ 20.96     $ 11.57  
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.01 )1     (0.02 )1     (0.03 )1     (0.05 )1     (0.09 )1     (0.17 )     (0.12 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (5.03 )     (0.49 )     4.43       2.27       3.97       0.52       10.15  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (5.04 )     (0.51 )     4.40       2.22       3.88       0.35       10.03  
                                                       

Distributions from net realized gain

    (2.31 )     (1.12 )     (0.35 )     (0.62 )     (0.01 )     (1.07 )     (0.64 )
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 20.79     $ 28.14     $ 29.77     $ 25.72     $ 24.11     $ 20.24     $ 20.96  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value9

    (17.80 )%3,4     (1.97 )%3     17.29 %3     9.40 %5     19.17 %3,4     1.52 %     87.13 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.42 %6     1.35 %     1.35 %     1.34 %     1.55 %6     1.58 %     1.55 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    1.43 %6     1.35 %     1.35 %     1.45 %     1.69 %6     1.73 %     2.11 %
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.07 )%6     (0.06 )%     (0.13 )%     (0.19 )%     (0.68 )%6     (0.90 )%     (0.71 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 382,337     $ 564,943     $ 697,451     $ 434,360     $ 186,545     $ 76,550     $ 54,638  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    72 %     91 %     98 %     157 %     77 %     173 %     106 %
                                                       

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.04%.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Commencement of operations.

 

8 Net assets end of period are less than $500.

 

9 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    43


Financial Highlights (continued)    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 28, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 29, 2004
 
    2008     2007     2006        

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.73     $ 28.28     $ 24.65     $ 23.31     $ 19.65     $ 20.52     $ 11.41  
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.09 )1     (0.23 )1     (0.25 )1     (0.24 )1     (0.17 )1     (0.28 )     (0.24 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (4.78 )     (0.49 )     4.23       2.19       3.84       0.48       9.99  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (4.87 )     (0.72 )     3.98       1.95       3.67       0.20       9.75  
                                                       

Distributions from net realized gain

    (2.15 )     (0.83 )     (0.35 )     (0.62 )     (0.01 )     (1.07 )     (0.64 )
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 19.71     $ 26.73     $ 28.28     $ 24.65     $ 23.31     $ 19.65     $ 20.52  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (18.13 )%4,5     (2.78 )%4     16.33 %4     8.54 %6     18.68 %4,5     0.80 %     85.89 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.21 %7     2.14 %     2.19 %     2.16 %     2.25 %7     2.25 %     2.25 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    2.21 %7     2.14 %     2.22 %     2.16 %     2.33 %7     2.39 %     2.91 %
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.86 )%7     (0.85 )%     (0.96 )%     (1.02 )%     (1.35 )%7     (1.58 )%     (1.44 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000) .

  $ 54,628     $ 80,269     $ 95,231     $ 78,902     $ 45,073     $ 29,495     $ 22,825  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    72 %     91 %     98 %     157 %     77 %     173 %     106 %
                                                       

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

44

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor C  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 28, 2005
    Year
Ended
February 29, 2004
 
    2008     2007     2006        

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.70     $ 28.27     $ 24.62     $ 23.26     $ 19.61     $ 20.47     $ 11.39  
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.08 )1     (0.21 )1     (0.23 )1     (0.21 )1     (0.18 )1     (0.22 )     (0.23 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (4.77 )     (0.47 )     4.23       2.18       3.84       0.43       9.95  
                                                       

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (4.85 )     (0.68 )     4.00       1.97       3.66       0.21       9.72  
                                                       

Distributions from net realized gain

    (2.17 )     (0.89 )     (0.35 )     (0.62 )     (0.01 )     (1.07 )     (0.64 )
                                                       

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     —         —    
                                                       

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 19.68     $ 26.70     $ 28.27     $ 24.62     $ 23.26     $ 19.61     $ 20.47  
                                                       

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (18.09 )%4,5     (2.66 )%4     16.43 %4     8.65 %6     18.67 %4,5     0.86 %     85.87 %
                                                       

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.11 %7     2.05 %     2.11 %     2.04 %     2.25 %7     2.25 %     2.25 %
                                                       

Total expenses

    2.12 %7     2.05 %     2.12 %     2.04 %     2.32 %7     2.41 %     2.77 %
                                                       

Net investment loss

    (0.76 )%7     (0.76 )%     (0.89 )%     (0.87 )%     (1.41 )%7     (1.56 )%     (1.38 )%
                                                       

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 220,296     $ 305,015     $ 363,739     $ 254,724     $ 84,431     $ 25,248     $ 11,017  
                                                       

Portfolio turnover

    72 %     91 %     98 %     157 %     77 %     173 %     106 %
                                                       

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.04%.

 

7 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    45


Financial Highlights (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Institutional     Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 29.44     $ 51.08     $ 42.16     $ 34.34     $ 24.44     $ 19.96     $ 28.36     $ 49.52     $ 41.06     $ 33.55     $ 23.93     $ 19.59  
                                                                                               

Net investment income1

    0.15       0.47       0.48       0.37       0.53       0.08       0.12       0.28       0.32       0.29       0.44       0.06  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (8.64 )     (13.66 )     14.98       8.57       9.68       4.41       (8.33 )     (13.14 )     14.58       8.32       9.45       4.29  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (8.49 )     (13.19 )     15.46       8.94       10.21       4.49       (8.21 )     (12.86 )     14.90       8.61       9.89       4.35  
                                                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

                       

Net investment income

    (0.10 )     (1.21 )     (0.71 )     (0.37 )     (0.32 )     (0.02 )     —         (1.06 )     (0.61 )     (0.35 )     (0.28 )     (0.02 )

Net realized gain

    —         (7.24 )     (5.83 )     (0.76 )     —         —         —         (7.24 )     (5.83 )     (0.76 )     —         —    
                                                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.10 )     (8.45 )     (6.54 )     (1.13 )     (0.32 )     (0.02 )     —         (8.30 )     (6.44 )     (1.11 )     (0.28 )     (0.02 )
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.01       0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.01       0.01  
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 20.85     $ 29.44     $ 51.08     $ 42.16     $ 34.34     $ 24.44     $ 20.15     $ 28.36     $ 49.52     $ 41.06     $ 33.55     $ 23.93  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (28.86 )%3,4     (30.87 )%3,5     40.42 %3     26.64 %6     42.13 %7     22.54 %8     (28.97 )%3,4     (31.10 )%3,5     40.00 %3     26.30 %6     41.65 %7     22.25 %8
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.41 %9     1.25 %     1.25 %     1.33 %     1.45 %     1.45 %     1.75 %9     1.58 %     1.58 %     1.57 %     1.74 %     1.75 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.43 %9     1.25 %     1.25 %     1.33 %     1.51 %     1.58 %     1.88 %9     1.58 %     1.59 %     1.58 %     1.76 %     1.91 %
                                                                                               

Net investment income

    1.39 %9     1.18 %     1.06 %     0.91 %     1.81 %     0.31 %     1.10 %9     0.72 %     0.73 %     0.73 %     1.52 %     0.21 %
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 325,251     $ 450,605     $ 492,444     $ 336,000     $ 216,070     $ 96,535     $ 47,325     $ 64,368     $ 172,135     $ 128,879     $ 44,308     $ 19,167  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    78 %     138 %     77 %     91 %     86 %     98 %     78 %     138 %     77 %     91 %     86 %     98 %
                                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

46

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor A  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.14     $ 49.19     $ 40.81     $ 33.36     $ 23.78     $ 19.49  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)1

    0.10       0.33       0.30       0.23       0.44       (0.02 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (8.25 )     (13.09 )     14.49       8.32       9.38       4.32  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (8.15 )     (12.76 )     14.79       8.55       9.82       4.30  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    (0.01 )     (1.05 )     (0.58 )     (0.35 )     (0.25 )     (0.02 )

Net realized gain

    —         (7.24 )     (5.83 )     (0.76 )     —         —    
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.01 )     (8.29 )     (6.41 )     (1.11 )     (0.25 )     (0.02 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.01       0.01  
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 19.98     $ 28.14     $ 49.19     $ 40.81     $ 33.36     $ 23.78  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value10

    (28.99 )%3,4     (31.09 )%3,5     39.98 %3     26.24 %6     41.60 %8     22.11 %11
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.80 %9     1.58 %     1.60 %     1.63 %     1.75 %     1.89 %
                                               

Total expenses

    1.81 %9     1.58 %     1.60 %     1.74 %     1.86 %     2.06 %
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    1.00 %9     0.87 %     0.69 %     0.62 %     1.53 %     (0.06 )%
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 332,712     $ 482,526     $ 555,189     $ 407,282     $ 253,710     $ 99,879  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    78 %     138 %     77 %     91 %     86 %     98 %
                                               

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Payment from affiliate of $112,880 received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.03%.

 

7 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.04%.

 

8 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.05%.

 

9 Annualized.

 

10 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

11 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.06%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    47


Financial Highlights (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.29     $ 46.43     $ 38.81     $ 31.97     $ 22.80     $ 18.83  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)1

    0.02       (0.06 )     (0.04 )     (0.07 )     0.18       (0.21 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (7.72 )     (12.16 )     13.74       7.95       9.05       4.19  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (7.70 )     (12.22 )     13.70       7.88       9.23       3.98  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    —         (0.68 )     (0.25 )     (0.29 )     (0.07 )     (0.02 )

Net realized gain

    —         (7.24 )     (5.83 )     (0.76 )     —         —    
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (7.92 )     (6.08 )     (1.05 )     (0.07 )     (0.02 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.01       0.01  
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 18.59     $ 26.29     $ 46.43     $ 38.81     $ 31.97     $ 22.80  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (29.29 )%4,5     (31.63 )%4,6     38.89 %4     25.24 %7     40.58 %8     21.18 %9
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.63 %10     2.35 %     2.37 %     2.43 %     2.50 %     2.65 %
                                               

Total expenses

    2.64 %10     2.35 %     2.37 %     2.43 %     2.51 %     2.72 %
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.20 %10     (0.15 )%     (0.10 )%     (0.22 )%     0.68 %     (0.94 )%
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 24,238     $ 42,927     $ 102,624     $ 91,605     $ 73,946     $ 45,167  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    78 %     138 %     77 %     91 %     86 %     98 %
                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

48

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    International Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor C  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.21     $ 46.34     $ 38.78     $ 31.93     $ 22.80     $ 18.84  
                                               

Net investment income (loss)1

    0.02       0.03       (0.03 )     (0.04 )     0.21       (0.21 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (7.69 )     (12.20 )     13.71       7.93       9.01       4.18  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (7.67 )     (12.17 )     13.68       7.89       9.22       3.97  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    —         (0.72 )     (0.29 )     (0.29 )     (0.10 )     (0.02 )

Net realized gain

    —         (7.24 )     (5.83 )     (0.76 )     —         —    
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    —         (7.96 )     (6.12 )     (1.05 )     (0.10 )     (0.02 )
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.01       0.01  
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 18.54     $ 26.21     $ 46.34     $ 38.78     $ 31.93     $ 22.80  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value3

    (29.26 )%4,5     (31.61 )%4,6     38.91 %4     25.33 %7     40.60 %9     21.12 %9
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.58 %10     2.32 %     2.36 %     2.37 %     2.50 %     2.65 %
                                               

Total expenses

    2.59 %10     2.32 %     2.36 %     2.37 %     2.51 %     2.72 %
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.23 %10     0.08 %     (0.08 )%     (0.13 )%     0.75 %     (0.86 )%
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 114,311     $ 194,068     $ 255,980     $ 205,958     $ 130,138     $ 54,894  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    78 %     138 %     77 %     91 %     86 %     98 %
                                               

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

4 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Payment from affiliate of $112,880 received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

7 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.03%.

 

8 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.04%.

 

9 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.05%.

 

10 Annualized.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    49


Financial Highlights (continued)    Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Institutional     Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 6.98     $ 9.03     $ 7.20     $ 6.61     $ 5.42     $ 5.46     $ 6.80     $ 8.83     $ 7.07     $ 6.51     $ 5.35     $ 5.41  
                                                                                               

Net investment loss1

    (0.00 )2     (0.05 )     (0.03 )     (0.03 )     (0.04 )     (0.07 )     (0.01 )     (0.06 )     (0.07 )     (0.05 )     (0.06 )     (0.08 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (1.48 )     (2.00 )     1.86       0.61       1.23       0.03       (1.44 )     (1.97 )     1.83       0.60       1.22       0.02  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (1.48 )     (2.05 )     1.83       0.58       1.19       (0.04 )     (1.45 )     (2.03 )     1.76       0.55       1.16       (0.06 )
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 5.50     $ 6.98     $ 9.03     $ 7.20     $ 6.61     $ 5.42     $ 5.35     $ 6.80     $ 8.83     $ 7.07     $ 6.51     $ 5.35  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (21.20 )%3,4     (22.70 )%3     25.42 %3     8.93 %5     21.96 %3     (0.73 )%3     (21.32 )%3,4     (22.99 )%3     24.89 %3     8.60 %5     21.68 %3     (1.11 )%3
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.35 %6     1.35 %     1.35 %     1.38 %     1.43 %     1.43 %     1.73 %6     1.73 %     1.73 %     1.73 %     1.73 %     1.73 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    2.00 %6     1.70 %     1.91 %     1.79 %     1.98 %     1.63 %     1.99 %6     2.01 %     2.30 %     2.06 %     2.27 %     1.94 %
                                                                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.17 )%6     (0.55 )%     (0.44 )%     (0.45 )%     (0.73 )%     (1.12 )%     (0.53 )%6     (0.75 )%     (0.85 )%     (0.79 )%     (1.04 )%     (1.41 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 18,638     $ 42,886     $ 1,449     $ 1,262     $ 847     $ 1,592     $ 59     $ 106     $ 123     $ 148     $ 116     $ 86  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    35 %     89 %     92 %     132 %     113 %     115 %     35 %     89 %     92 %     132 %     113 %     115 %
                                                                                               
    Investor A     Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 6.73     $ 8.74     $ 7.00     $ 6.45     $ 5.31     $ 5.38     $ 6.30     $ 8.26     $ 6.66     $ 6.19     $ 5.13     $ 5.24  
                                                                                               

Net investment loss1

    (0.01 )     (0.06 )     (0.06 )     (0.06 )     (0.07 )     (0.09 )     (0.04 )     (0.13 )     (0.12 )     (0.11 )     (0.11 )     (0.13 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (1.43 )     (1.95 )     1.80       0.60       1.21       0.02       (1.33 )     (1.83 )     1.72       0.57       1.17       0.02  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (1.44 )     (2.01 )     1.74       0.54       1.14       (0.07 )     (1.37 )     (1.96 )     1.60       0.46       1.06       (0.11 )
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 5.29     $ 6.73     $ 8.74     $ 7.00     $ 6.45     $ 5.31     $ 4.93     $ 6.30     $ 8.26     $ 6.66     $ 6.19     $ 5.13  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value7

    (21.40 )%3,4     (23.00 )%3     24.86 %3     8.53 %8     21.47 %3     (1.30 )%3     (21.75 )%3,4     (23.73 )%3     24.02 %3     7.59 %8     20.66 %3     (2.10 )%3
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.75 %6     1.75 %     1.73 %     1.77 %     1.84 %     1.89 %     2.65 %6     2.65 %     2.50 %     2.63 %     2.59 %     2.65 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    2.40 %6     2.04 %     2.16 %     2.27 %     2.35 %     2.14 %     3.51 %6     2.96 %     3.01 %     3.06 %     3.00 %     2.82 %
                                                                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.55 )%6     (0.77 )%     (0.80 )%     (0.83 )%     (1.16 )%     (1.56 )%     (1.45 )%6     (1.70 )%     (1.59 )%     (1.73 )%     (1.91 )%     (2.33 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 56,038     $ 72,659     $ 21,632     $ 13,040     $ 9,688     $ 9,929     $ 6,076     $ 11,473     $ 9,030     $ 10,439     $ 10,998     $ 12,315  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    35 %     89 %     92 %     132 %     113 %     115 %     35 %     89 %     92 %     132 %     113 %     115 %
                                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

50

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)    Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor C     R  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Period
September 8, 2008to
September 30, 2008
 
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004      

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 6.29     $ 8.25     $ 6.66     $ 6.19     $ 5.14     $ 5.24     $ 6.97     $ 7.38  
                                                               

Net investment loss1

    (0.04 )     (0.13 )     (0.12 )     (0.11 )     (0.11 )     (0.13 )     (0.03 )     (0.01 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (1.32 )     (1.83 )     1.71       0.57       1.16       0.03       (1.47 )     (0.40 )
                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (1.36 )     (1.96 )     1.59       0.46       1.05       (0.10 )     (1.50 )     (0.41 )
                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 4.93     $ 6.29     $ 8.25     $ 6.66     $ 6.19     $ 5.14     $ 5.47     $ 6.97  
                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value7

    (21.62 )%3,4     (23.76 )%3     23.87 %3     7.59 %8     20.43 %3     (1.91 )%3     (21.52 )%3,4     (5.56 )%3,4
                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.65 %6     2.62 %     2.61 %     2.62 %     2.59 %     2.65 %     2.13 %6     2.13 %6
                                                               

Total expenses

    3.47 %6     2.73 %     2.88 %     2.84 %     3.00 %     2.80 %     2.46 %6     2.36 %6
                                                               

Net investment loss

    (1.46 )%6     (1.67 )%     (1.69 )%     (1.67 )%     (1.91 )%     (2.33 )%     (0.93 )%6     (1.49 )%6
                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 14,959     $ 22,003     $ 9,755     $ 6,511     $ 2,794     $ 3,244     $ 1,254     $ 1,362  
                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    35 %     89 %     92 %     132 %     113 %     115 %     35 %     89 %
                                                               

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.15%.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

8 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.16%.

 

9 Commencement of operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    51


Financial Highlights (continued)    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Institutional     Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 31.69     $ 37.05     $ 29.07     $ 25.56     $ 20.34     $ 16.56     $ 30.58     $ 35.89     $ 28.28     $ 24.96     $ 19.93     $ 16.27  
                                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)1

    0.12       0.09       0.03       0.04       (0.15 )     (0.17 )     0.06       (0.06 )     (0.09 )     (0.07 )     (0.21 )     (0.22 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (9.10 )     (5.45 )     7.95       3.46       5.37       3.95       (8.78 )     (5.25 )     7.70       3.38       5.24       3.88  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (8.98 )     (5.36 )     7.98       3.50       5.22       3.78       (8.72 )     (5.31 )     7.61       3.31       5.03       3.66  
                                                                                               

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.01 )     —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —    
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 22.70     $ 31.69     $ 37.05     $ 29.07     $ 25.56     $ 20.34     $ 21.86     $ 30.58     $ 35.89     $ 28.28     $ 24.96     $ 19.93  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (28.35 )%3,4     (14.47 )%3     27.45 %3     13.73 %5     25.66 %3     22.83 %3     (28.52 )%3,4     (14.80 )%3     26.91 %3     13.30 %5     25.24 %3     22.50 %3
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.00 %6     1.00 %     1.01 %     1.19 %     1.60 %     1.60 %     1.45 %6     1.43 %     1.40 %     1.57 %     1.90 %     1.90 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.40 %6     1.42 %     1.42 %     1.49 %     1.73 %     1.65 %     1.69 %6     1.68 %     1.69 %     1.85 %     1.97 %     1.97 %
                                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    1.01 %6     0.26 %     0.09 %     0.15 %     (0.65 )%     (0.92 )%     0.57 %6     (0.17 )%     (0.28 )%     (0.25 )%     (0.96 )%     (1.15 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000) .

  $ 436,844     $ 298,166     $ 158,094     $ 20,548     $ 6,390     $ 6,074     $ 115,438     $ 109,679     $ 43,763     $ 1,527     $ 472     $ 2,303  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    71 %     164 %     106 %     120 %     94 %     106 %     71 %     164 %     106 %     120 %     94 %     106 %
                                                                                               
    Investor A     Investor B  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,     Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004       2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 30.29     $ 35.57     $ 28.03     $ 24.76     $ 19.78     $ 16.17     $ 28.06     $ 33.20     $ 26.37     $ 23.45     $ 18.87     $ 15.55  
                                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)1

    0.05       (0.08 )     (0.10 )     (0.10 )     (0.22 )     (0.26 )     (0.02 )     (0.31 )     (0.32 )     (0.29 )     (0.37 )     (0.39 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (8.70 )     (5.20 )     7.64       3.36       5.20       3.87       (8.06 )     (4.83 )     7.15       3.20       4.95       3.71  
                                                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (8.65 )     (5.28 )     7.54       3.26       4.98       3.61       (8.08 )     (5.14 )     6.83       2.91       4.58       3.32  
                                                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2
                                                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 21.64     $ 30.29     $ 35.57     $ 28.03     $ 24.76     $ 19.78     $ 19.98     $ 28.06     $ 33.20     $ 26.37     $ 23.45     $ 18.87  
                                                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value7

    (28.56 )%3,4     (14.84 )%3     26.90 %3     13.21 %5     25.18 %3     22.33 %3     (28.75 )%3,4     (15.48 )%3     25.90 %3     12.45 %5     24.27 %3     21.35 %3
                                                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.52 %6     1.48 %     1.48 %     1.66 %     1.97 %     2.04 %     2.25 %6     2.22 %     2.23 %     2.40 %     2.72 %     2.80 %
                                                                                               

Total expenses

    1.76 %6     1.73 %     1.77 %     1.95 %     2.08 %     2.15 %     2.65 %6     2.56 %     2.56 %     2.68 %     2.73 %     2.81 %
                                                                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    0.49 %6     (0.22 )%     (0.32 )%     (0.35 )%     (1.02 )%     (1.36 )%     (0.19 )%6     (0.95 )%     (1.06 )%     (1.13 )%     (1.77 )%     (2.12 )%
                                                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 465,955     $ 495,656     $ 228,668     $ 96,194     $ 31,277     $ 31,282     $ 15,267     $ 20,998     $ 35,928     $ 36,093     $ 37,132     $ 40,994  
                                                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    71 %     164 %     106 %     120 %     94 %     106 %     71 %     164 %     106 %     120 %     94 %     106 %
                                                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

52

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (concluded)    U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

 

    Investor C  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007     2006     2005     2004  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.04     $ 33.18     $ 26.34     $ 23.43     $ 18.85     $ 15.53  
                                               

Net investment loss1

    (0.02 )     (0.30 )     (0.32 )     (0.28 )     (0.37 )     (0.38 )

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (8.05 )     (4.84 )     7.16       3.18       4.95       3.70  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (8.07 )     (5.14 )     6.84       2.90       4.58       3.32  
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    0.00 2     0.00 2     0.00 2     0.01       0.00 2     0.00 2
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 19.97     $ 28.04     $ 33.18     $ 26.34     $ 23.43     $ 18.85  
                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value7

    (28.78 )%3,4     (15.49 )%3     25.97 %3     12.42 %5     24.30 %3     21.38 %3
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.25 %6     2.21 %     2.20 %     2.37 %     2.72 %     2.81 %
                                               

Total expenses

    2.51 %6     2.46 %     2.51 %     2.60 %     2.73 %     2.83 %
                                               

Net investment loss

    (0.21 )%6     (0.95 )%     (1.04 )%     (1.07 )%     (1.77 )%     (2.13 )%
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 130,919     $ 145,626     $ 88,826     $ 39,427     $ 20,774     $ 20,261  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    71 %     164 %     106 %     120 %     94 %     106 %
                                               

 

1 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

2 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

3 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. The impact to the return from redemption fees received during the period was an increase of 0.04%.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    53


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies:

BlackRock FundsSM (the “Fund”), a Massachusetts business trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. As of March 31, 2009, the Fund had 27 registered portfolios, of which the BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio (“Global Opportunities”), BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio (“Health Sciences Opportunities”), BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio (“International Opportunities”), BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio (“Science & Technology Opportunities”) and BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio (“U.S. Opportunities”) (collectively the “Portfolios”) are included in these financial statements. The Portfolios’ financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Portfolio offers multiple classes of shares. Institutional Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain eligible investors. Service Shares are sold without a sales charge. Investor A Shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares of Investor B and Investor C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. R Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain retirement and other similar plans. All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except that the Service, Investor A, Investor B, Investor C and R Shares may bear certain expenses related to the service and/or distribution of such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to matters relating to its service and distribution expenditures (except that Investor B shareholders may vote on material changes to the Investor A distribution plan).

Fund Reorganization:

The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of Science & Technology Opportunities and shareholders of the below BlackRock Fund approved a reorganization with BlackRock Technology Fund, Inc. (the “Reorganization”), as indicated below. The Reorganization was a tax-free event and took place on September 15, 2008.

 

Target Fund

  

Acquiring Portfolio

BlackRock Technology Fund, Inc.    Science & Technology Opportunities

Under the agreement and plan of reorganization with respect to the Reorganization, BlackRock Technology Fund, Inc. Investor A Shares, Investor B Shares, Investor C Shares, Institutional Shares and R Shares were exchanged for Science & Technology Opportunities Investor A Shares, Investor B Shares, Investor C Shares, Institutional Shares and R Shares, respectively. The conversion ratio for each Share class was as follows:

 

Science & Technology Opportunities

    

Investor A

   0.89302835

Investor B

   0.87637176

Investor C

   0.87439671

Institutional

   0.88413428

R

   0.83033708

The net assets before and after the Reorganization and shares issued and redeemed in the Reorganization were as follows:

 

BlackRock Portfolio

   Net Assets Combined
After Reorganization
as of September 15, 2008
   Net Assets Prior to
Reorganization as of
September 15, 2008
   Shares Issued    BlackRock
Technology
Fund, Inc.
Shares
Redeemed

Science & Technology Opportunities

   $ 172,438,131    $ 41,095,813    18,216,414    20,570,019

Included in the net assets acquired were the following components:

 

BlackRock Fund

   Paid In Capital    Accumulated
Net Realized Loss
    Net
Unrealized
Depreciation
    Net Assets

BlackRock Technology Fund, Inc.

   $ 1,344,537,764    $ (1,204,274,389 )   $ (8,921,057 )   $ 131,342,318

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolios:

Valuation of Investments: Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange or the NASDAQ Global Market System are valued at the last reported sale price that day or the NASDAQ official closing price, if applicable. For equity investments traded on more than one exchange, the last reported sale price on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded is used. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last available bid price. If no bid price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the security. Financial futures contracts are traded on exchanges and are valued at their last sale price. Short-term securities with maturities less than 60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments in investment companies are valued at the net asset value each business day. The Portfolios value their investments in the BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series at fair value, which is ordinarily based upon their pro rata ownership in the net assets of the underlying fund.

Exchange-traded options are valued at the mean between the last bid and ask prices at the close of the options market in which the options trade. An exchange-traded option for which there is no mean price is valued at the last bid (long position) or ask (short position) price. If no bid or ask price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of

 

54

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

the option. Over-the-counter options are valued by an independent pricing service using a mathematical model which incorporates a number of market data factors, such as the trades and prices of the underlying securities.

In the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment which is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, the investment will be valued by a method approved by the Board as reflecting fair value (“Fair Value Assets”). When determining the price for Fair Value Assets, the investment advisor and/or the sub-advisor seeks to determine the price that the Portfolios might reasonably expect to receive from the current sale of that asset in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the investment advisor and/or sub-advisor deems relevant. The pricing of all Fair Value Assets is subsequently reported to the Board or a committee thereof.

Generally, trading in foreign securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). The values of such securities used in computing the net assets of a Portfolio are determined as of such times. Foreign currency exchange rates will be determined as of the close of business on the NYSE. Occasionally, events affecting the values of such securities and such exchange rates may occur between the times at which they are determined and the close of business on the NYSE that may not be reflected in the computation of the Portfolio’s net assets. If events (for example, a company announcement, market volatility or a natural disaster) occur during such periods that are expected to materially affect the value of such securities, those securities may be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith by the Board or by the investment advisor using a pricing service and/or procedures approved by the Board. Foreign currency exchange contracts and forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. Interpolated values are derived when the settlement date of the contract is an interim date for which quotations are not available.

Derivative Financial Instruments: The Portfolios may engage in various portfolio investment strategies to both increase the return of the Portfolios and to hedge, or protect, their exposure to interest rate movements and movements in the securities markets. Losses may arise if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the price of the underlying security, or if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.

 

 

Financial Futures Contracts – The Portfolios may purchase or sell financial or index futures contracts and options on financial futures contracts for investment purposes or to manage their interest rate risk. Futures are contracts for delayed delivery of securities at a specific future date and at a specific price or yield. Pursuant to the contract, a Portfolio agrees to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are known as margin variation and are recognized by a Portfolio as unrealized gains or losses. When the contract is closed, a Portfolio records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of futures transactions involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts, interest rates and the underlying assets, and the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts.

 

 

Forward Currency Contracts – A forward currency contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency at a set exchange rate on a future date. The Portfolios may enter into forward currency contracts as a hedge against either specific transactions or portfolio positions. Forward currency contracts, when used by a Portfolio, help to manage the overall exposure to the foreign currency backing some of the investments held by the Portfolio. The contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded by a Portfolio as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, a Portfolio records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of forward currency contracts involves the risk that counterparties may not meet the terms of the agreement and market risk of unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the US dollar.

 

 

Options – The Portfolios may purchase and write call and put options. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right (but not the obligation) to buy, and obligates the seller to sell (when the option is exercised), the underlying position at the exercise price at any time or at a specified time during the option period. A put option gives the holder the right to sell and obligates the writer to buy the underlying position at the exercise price at any time or at a specified time during the option period.

When a Portfolio purchases (writes) an option, an amount equal to the premium paid (received) by a Portfolio is reflected as an asset and an equivalent liability. The amount of the asset (liability) is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. When a security is purchased or sold through an exercise of an option, the related premium paid (or received) is added to (or deducted from) the basis of the security acquired or deducted from (or added to) the proceeds of the security sold. When an option expires (or the Portfolio enters into a closing transaction), a Portfolio realizes a gain or loss on the option to the extent of the premiums received or paid (or gain or loss to the extent the cost of the closing transaction exceeds the premium received or paid). When the Portfolio writes a call option, such option is “covered”, meaning that the Portfolio holds the underlying security subject to being called by the option counterparty, or cash in an amount sufficient to cover the obligation. When the Portfolio writes a put option, such option is covered by cash in an amount sufficient to cover the obligation.

In purchasing and writing options, the Portfolios bear the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the underlying security or index. Exercise of a written option could result in a Portfolio purchasing a security at a price different from the current market value. The

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    55


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

Portfolio may execute transactions in both listed and over-the-counter options. Transactions in certain over-the-counter options may expose the Portfolio to the risk of default by the counterparty to the transaction.

Foreign Currency Transactions: Foreign currency amounts are translated into United States dollars on the following basis: (i) market value of investment securities, assets and liabilities at the current rate of exchange; and (ii) purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions.

The Portfolios report foreign currency related transactions as components of realized gains for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

Preferred Stock: The Portfolios may invest in preferred stock. Preferred stock has a preference over common stock in liquidation (and generally in receiving dividends as well) but is subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer in all respects. As a general rule, the market value of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk, while the market price of convertible preferred stock generally also reflects some element of conversion value. Because preferred stock is junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics. Unlike interest payments on debt securities, preferred stock dividends are payable only if declared by the issuer’s board of directors. Preferred stock also may be subject to optional or mandatory redemption provisions.

Segregation and Collateralization: In cases in which the 1940 Act and the interpretive positions of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) require that each Portfolio segregate assets in connection with certain investments (e.g., options written and financial futures contracts), each Portfolio will, consistent with certain interpretive letters issued by the SEC, designate on its books and records cash or other liquid debt securities having a market value at least equal to the amount that would otherwise be required to be physically segregated. Furthermore, based on requirements and agreements with certain exchanges and third party broker-dealers, each Portfolio may also be required to deliver or deposit securities as collateral for certain investments (e.g., options written and financial futures contracts).

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Portfolio has determined the ex-dividend date. Upon notification from issuers, some of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Income, realized and unrealized gains and losses of the Portfolios are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

Dividends and Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by the Portfolios are recorded on the ex-dividend dates.

Securities Lending: The Portfolios may lend securities to financial institutions that provide cash which will be maintained at all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Portfolios and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Portfolios on the next business day. The Portfolios typically receive income on the loaned securities but do not receive the income on the collateral. The Portfolios may invest the cash collateral and retain the amount earned on such investment, net of any amount rebated to the borrower. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions. The Portfolios may pay reasonable lending agent, administrative and custodial fees in connection with their loans. In the event that the borrower defaults on its obligation to return borrowed securities because of insolvency or for any other reason, the Portfolios could experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Portfolios also could suffer a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of loaned securities.

Income Taxes: It is each Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of their taxable income to their shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required. Under the applicable foreign tax laws, a withholding tax may be imposed on interest, dividends and capital gains at various rates.

The Portfolios file US federal and various state and local tax returns. No income tax returns are currently under examination. The statutes of limitations on Health Sciences Opportunities, International Opportunities, Science & Technology Opportunities and U.S. Opportunities Portfolios’ US federal income tax returns remain open for each of the four years ended September 30, 2008. The statutes of limitations on Global Opportunities’ US federal income tax returns remain open for each of the three years ended September 30, 2008. The statutes of limitations on each Portfolio’s state and local tax returns may remain open for an additional year depending upon the jurisdiction.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement: In March 2008, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”), was issued. FAS 161 is intended to improve financial reporting for derivative instruments by requiring enhanced disclosure that enables investors to understand how and why an entity uses derivatives, how derivatives are accounted for, and how derivative instruments affect an entity’s results of operations and financial position. FAS 161 is

 

56

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The impact on each Portfolio’s financial statement disclosures is currently being assessed.

Bank Overdraft: As of March 31, 2009, Science & Technology Opportunities recorded a bank overdraft resulting from the estimation of available cash. The overdraft balance incurs fees charged by the custodian which are included in custodian on the Statements of Operations.

Other: Expenses directly related to a Portfolio or class are charged to that Portfolio or class. Other operating expenses shared by several funds are pro-rated among those funds on the basis of relative net assets or other appropriate methods. Other expenses of a Portfolio are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

2. Investment Advisory Agreements and Other Transactions with Affiliates:

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Advisor”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc., to provide investment advisory services. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) and Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”) are the largest stockholders of BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BAC became a stockholder of BlackRock following its acquisition of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. (“Merrill Lynch”) on January 1, 2009. Prior to that date, both PNC and Merrill Lynch were considered affiliates of the Fund under the 1940 Act. Subsequent to the acquisition, PNC remains an affiliate, but due to the restructuring of Merrill Lynch’s ownership interest of BlackRock, BAC is not deemed to be an affiliate under the 1940 Act.

The Advisor is responsible for the management of each Portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services necessary to the operations of the Portfolios. For such services, each Portfolio pays the Advisor a monthly fee based on the average daily value of the Portfolio’s net assets, at the following annual rates:

 

     First $1 Billion     $1 Billion - $2 Billion     $2 Billion - $3 Billion     Greater Than $3 Billion  

Global Opportunities and Science & Technology Opportunities

   0.900 %   0.850 %   0.800 %   0.750 %

Health Sciences Opportunities

   0.750     0.700     0.675     0.650  

International Opportunities

   1.000     0.950     0.900     0.850  

U.S. Opportunities

   1.100     1.050     1.025     1.000  

In addition, the Advisor has entered into a sub-advisory agreement with BlackRock Financial Management, Inc., an affiliate of the Advisor, to serve as sub-advisor for a portion of the assets of Global Opportunities and BlackRock International, Ltd., an affiliate of the Advisor, to serve as sub-advisor for International Opportunities. The Advisor pays the sub-advisors, for services they provide, a monthly fee that is a percentage of the investment advisory fees paid by the applicable Portfolio to the Advisor.

The Advisor contractually agreed to waive or reimburse fees or expenses until February 1, 2010, in order to limit expenses. These expense limits apply to the aggregate expenses incurred on a share class (excluding: interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, expenses incurred as a result of investments in other funds and other expenses attributable to, and incurred as a result of, a Portfolio’s investments and other extraordinary expenses). This agreement is reviewed annually by the Board. The current expense limitations as a percentage of net assets are as follows:

 

     Share Classes  
     Institutional     Service     Investor A     Investor B     Investor C     R  

Global Opportunities

   1.35 %   1.65 %1   1.65 %   2.40 %   2.40 %   3.59 %1

Health Sciences Opportunities

   1.25 %   1.55 %   1.55 %   2.25 %   2.25 %   1.81 %1

International Opportunities

   1.45 %   1.75 %   1.92 %   2.67 %   2.67 %   2.12 %1

Science & Technology Opportunities

   1.35 %   1.73 %   1.75 %   2.65 %   2.65 %   2.57 %

U.S. Opportunities

   1.00 %   1.60 %   1.60 %   2.25 %   2.25 %   2.32 %1

 

1 There were no shares outstanding as of March 31, 2009.

PFPC Trust Company, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as custodian for each Portfolio. For these services, the custodian receives a fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily gross assets of each Portfolio. The fee is based on a percentage of the average daily net assets at the following annual rates: 0.005% of the first $400 million, 0.004% of the next $1.6 billion, and 0.003% of average daily gross assets in excess of $2 billion; plus per transaction charges and other miscellaneous fees incurred on behalf of each Portfolio.

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc. (“PNCGIS”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Each class of each Portfolio bears the costs of transfer agent fees associated with such respective class. Transfer agent fees borne by each class of each Portfolio are comprised of those fees

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    57


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

charged for all shareholder communications including mailing of shareholder reports, dividend and distribution notices, and proxy materials for shareholders meetings, as well as per account and per transaction fees related to servicing and maintenance of shareholder accounts, including the issuing, redeeming and transferring of shares of each class of each Portfolio, 12b-1 fee calculations, check writing, anti-money laundering services, and customer identification services.

Pursuant to written agreements, Merrill Lynch and certain other affiliates provide the Portfolios with sub-accounting, recordkeeping, sub-transfer agency and other administrative services with respect to sub-accounts they service. For these services, affiliates receive an annual fee per shareholder account which will vary depending on share class. The Portfolios incurred the following fees in return for these services, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations:

 

     Merrill Lynch    Other Affiliates
     Period
October 1, 2008

to
December 31, 2008
   Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009

Global Opportunities

   $ 10,651    $ —  

Health Sciences Opportunities

     86,516      57

International Opportunities

     110,582      47,655

Science & Technology Opportunities

     196,427      536

U.S. Opportunities

     68,088      43,507

PNCGIS and the Advisor act as co-administrators for the Portfolios. For these services, the co-administrators receive a combined administration fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily net assets of each Portfolio. The combined administration fee is paid at the following annual rates: 0.075% of the first $500 million, 0.065% of the next $500 million and 0.055% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, each of the share classes is charged an administration fee based on the following percentages of average daily net assets of each respective class: 0.025% of the first $500 million of each Portfolio, 0.015% of the next $500 million and 0.005% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, PNCGIS and the Advisor may have, at their discretion, voluntarily waived all or any portion of their administration fees for a Portfolio or a share class.

The Portfolios have received an exemptive order from the SEC permitting them to lend portfolio securities to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith (“MLPF&S”) or its affiliates. Pursuant to that order, the Portfolios have retained BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (“BIM”), an affiliate of the Advisor, as the securities lending agent for a fee based on a share of the returns on investment of cash collateral. BIM may, on behalf of the Portfolios, invest cash collateral received by the Portfolios for such loans, among other things, in a private investment company managed by the Advisor or in registered money market funds advised by the Advisor or its affiliates. The share of income earned by the Portfolios on such investments is shown as securities lending - affiliated on the Statements of Operations. The securities lending agent fees received by BIM were as follows:

 

     Securities lending
agent fees for the
six months ended
March 31, 2009

Health Sciences Opportunities

   $ 21,671

International Opportunities

     1,281

Science & Technology Opportunities

     897

U.S. Opportunities

     136,597

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolios, has entered into a separate Distribution Agreement and Distribution Plan with BlackRock Investments, LLC (“BIL”), an affiliate of BlackRock. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, the Portfolios pay BIL ongoing service and distribution fees. The fees are accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates based upon the average daily net assets of the shares of each Portfolio as follows:

 

     Service
Fee
    Distribution
Fee
 

Service

   0.25 %   —    

Investor A

   0.25 %   —    

Investor B

   0.25 %   0.75 %

Investor C

   0.25 %   0.75 %

R

   0.25 %   0.25 %

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the Portfolios paid to affiliates the following fees in return for distribution and sales support services:

 

Global Opportunities

   $ 11,823

Health Sciences Opportunities

     354,652

International Opportunities

     163,454

Science & Technology Opportunities

     66,159

U.S. Opportunities

     99,401

The Advisor maintains a call center, which is responsible for providing certain shareholder services to the Portfolios, such as responding to shareholder inquiries and processing transactions based upon instructions from shareholders with respect to the subscription and redemption of Portfolio shares. During the six months ended March 31, 2009, each Portfolio reimbursed the Advisor the following amounts for costs incurred in running the call center, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

      Share Classes

Call Center

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    Total

Global Opportunities

   $ 599         $ 2,925    $ 743    $ 970    $ 5,237

Health Sciences Opportunities

     2,603    $ 371      36,180      8,006      12,929      60,089

International Opportunities

     6,874      2,009      30,356      3,833      9,069      52,141

Science & Technology Opportunities

     3,192           6,283                9,475

U.S. Opportunities

     3,609      1,221      32,589      2,118      6,130      45,667

 

58

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the following charts show the various types of class specific expenses borne directly by each class of each Portfolio and any associated waivers or reimbursements of those expenses.

 

     Share Classes     

Administration Fees

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

Global Opportunities

   $ 2,487      —      $ 3,219    $ 474    $ 1,517      —      $ 7,697

Health Sciences Opportunities

     18,463    $ 632      53,081      7,731      29,776      —        109,683

International Opportunities

     42,020      5,652      42,127      3,485      16,161      —        109,445

Science & Technology Opportunities

     3,169      9      7,009      906      1,943    $ 155      13,191

U.S. Opportunities

     40,959      12,750      50,198      1,975      15,046      —        120,928

 

     Share Classes     

Administration Fees Waived

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

Global Opportunities

   $ 2,283      —      $ 3,058    $ 454    $ 1,456      —      $ 7,251

International Opportunities

     9,585    $ 4,931      —        589      533      —        15,638

Science & Technology Opportunities

     3,169      9      7,009      906      1,943    $ 155      13,191

U.S. Opportunities

     40,959      —        582      1,975      6,763      —        50,279

 

     Share Classes     

Service and Distribution Fees

   Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

Global Opportunities

     —      $ 32,186    $ 18,957    $ 60,910      —      $ 112,053

Health Sciences Opportunities

   $ 6,327      530,944      309,107      1,189,629      —        2,036,007

International Opportunities

     56,503      419,847      139,414      647,409      —        1,263,173

Science & Technology Opportunities

     85      70,169      36,293      77,789    $ 3,125      187,461

U.S. Opportunities

     127,498      500,058      78,973      601,782      —        1,308,311

 

     Share Classes     

Transfer Agent Fees

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

Global Opportunities

   $ 18,548      —      $ 29,960    $ 6,436    $ 15,321      —      $ 70,265

Health Sciences Opportunities

     84,148    $ 5,635      547,150      90,588      233,924      —        961,445

International Opportunities

     294,135      84,962      509,821      53,274      212,815      —        1,155,007

Science & Technology Opportunities

     105,007      191      269,515      47,919      99,241    $ 4,770      526,643

U.S. Opportunities

     232,765      92,557      505,364      31,092      158,996      —        1,020,774

 

     Share Classes     

Transfer Agent Fees Waived

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    Total

Global Opportunities

   $ 562      —      $ 2,791    $ 715    $ 938    $ 5,006

International Opportunities

     1,450    $ 1,633      —        52      —        3,135

Science & Technology Opportunities

     3,192      —        6,283      —        —        9,475

U.S. Opportunities

     3,609      —        —        2,118      1,875      7,602

 

     Share Classes     

Transfer Agent Fees Reimbursed

   Institutional    Service    Investor A    Investor B    Investor C    R    Total

Global Opportunities

   $ 11,111      —      $ 13,894    $ 4,119    $ 9,749      —      $ 38,873

International Opportunities

     9,813    $ 22,663      —        —        —        —        32,476

Science & Technology Opportunities

     76,202      80      168,608      30,189      61,499    $ 1,881      338,459

U.S. Opportunities

     228,906      —        —        8,938      12,383      —        250,227

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    59


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

If within two years following a waiver or reimbursement, the operating expenses of a share class that previously received a waiver or reimbursement from the Advisor are less than the expense limit for that share class, the Advisor is entitled to be reimbursed by such share class up to the amount of fees waived or expenses reimbursed under the agreement if: (1) the Portfolio has more than $50 million in assets, (2) the Advisor or an affiliate continues to serve as the Portfolio’s investment advisor or administrator and (3) the Board has approved in advance the payments to the Advisor at the previous quarterly meeting.

At March 31, 2009, the amounts subject to possible future reimbursement under the expense limitation agreement are as follows:

 

     Expiring January 31,
     2010    2011    2012

Global Opportunities

   $ 51,967    $ 42,056    $ 26,563

Health Sciences Opportunities

     18,972      —        —  

International Opportunities

     13,266      25,689      17,408

Science & Technology Opportunities

     120,153      386,166      84,039

U.S. Opportunities

     1,134,428      2,152,468      420,670

The following waivers previously recorded by the Portfolios, which were subject to recoupment by the Advisor, expired on January 31, 2009:

 

Global Opportunities

   $ 263,545

Science & Technology Opportunities

     109,289

U.S. Opportunities

     427,587

For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Merrill Lynch, through its affiliated broker dealer, MLPF&S, earned commissions on transactions of securities as follows:

 

Global Opportunities

   $ 4,473

Health Sciences Opportunities

     14,892

Science & Technology Opportunities

     8,460

U.S. Opportunities

     38,457

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates earned underwriting discounts, direct commissions and dealer concessions on sales of each Portfolio’s Investor A Shares as follows:

 

Global Opportunities

   $ 1,145

Health Sciences Opportunities

     13,692

International Opportunities

     33,523

Science & Technology Opportunities

     3,866

U.S. Opportunities

     45,662

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates received the following contingent deferred sales charges relating to transactions in Investor A, B and C Shares:

 

     Investor A    Investor B    Investor C

Global Opportunities

   $ —      $ 14,067    $ 5,452

Health Sciences Opportunities

     5,044      106,757      16,302

International Opportunities

     19,777      63,114      55,197

Science & Technology

        

Opportunities

     232      6,056      2,124

U.S. Opportunities

     3,371      28,323      59,545

The Portfolios may earn income on positive cash balances in demand deposit accounts that are maintained by PNCGIS on behalf of the Portfolios. The income earned for the six months ended March 31, 2009, was as follows which is included in interest and dividends – affiliated on the Statements of Operations:

 

Global Opportunities

   $ 122

Health Sciences Opportunities

     1,349

International Opportunities

     1,266

Science & Technology Opportunities

     403

U.S. Opportunities

     1,377

The Portfolios may also receive earnings credits related to cash balances with PNCGIS which are shown on the Statements of Operations as fees paid indirectly.

Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or directors of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. The Portfolios reimburse the Advisor for compensation paid to the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer.

3. Investments:

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities, were as follows:

 

     Purchases    Sales

Global Opportunities

   $ 59,418,712    $ 71,402,221

Health Sciences Opportunities

     599,222,913      628,011,910

International Opportunities

     665,317,775      632,456,324

Science & Technology Opportunities

     36,247,968      56,461,434

U.S. Opportunities

     1,045,750,092      637,523,737

Written options transactions entered into during the six months ended March 31, 2009 are summarized as follows:

 

Global Opportunities

   Contracts     Premium  

Balance at 9/30/08

   —       $ —    

Written

   (100 )     (8,750 )

Expired

   50       4,200  

Closed

   —         —    

Exercised

   50       4,550  
              

Balance at 3/31/09

   —       $ —    
              

 

Health Sciences Opportunities

   Contracts     Premium  

Balance at 9/30/08

   —       $ —    

Written

   (226,985 )     (8,926,641 )

Expired

   23,005       3,923,794  

Closed

   191,181       2,902,250  

Exercised

   11,109       1,947,258  
              

Balance at 3/31/09

   (1,690 )   $ (153,339 )
              

 

60

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

U.S. Opportunities

   Contracts     Premium  

Balance at 9/30/08

   —       $ —    

Written

   (1,789 )     (380,061 )

Expired

   1,461       335,945  

Closed

   —         —    

Exercised

   —         —    
              

Balance at 3/31/09

   (328 )   $ (44,116 )
              

4. Short-Term Borrowings:

The Portfolios, along with certain other funds managed by the Advisor and its affiliates, are a party to a $500 million credit agreement with a group of lenders, which expired November 2008 and was renewed until November 2009. The Portfolios may borrow under the credit agreement to fund shareholder redemptions and for other lawful purposes other than for leverage. Each Portfolio may borrow up to the maximum amount allowable under the Portfolio’s current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, subject to various other legal, regulatory or contractual limits. The Portfolios paid their pro rata share of a 0.02% upfront fee on the aggregate commitment amount based on their net assets as of October 31, 2008. The Portfolios pay a commitment fee of 0.08% per annum based on each Portfolio’s pro rata share of the unused portion of the credit agreement, which is included in miscellaneous on the Statement of Operations. Amounts borrowed under the credit agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, the higher of the (a) federal funds effective rate and (b) reserve adjusted one month LIBOR, plus, in each case, the higher of (i) 1.50% and (ii) 50% of the CDX index (as defined in the credit agreement) in effect from time to time. The Portfolios did not borrow under the credit agreement during the six months ended March 31, 2009.

5. Capital Loss Carryforward:

As of September 30, 2008, capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized capital gains through the indicated expiration dates:

 

     Expiring September 30,
     2009    2010    2011    2015

Science & Technology Opportunities

   $ 226,710,557    $ 7,544,799    $ —      $ 54,937,681

U.S. Opportunities

     —        36,277,437      16,513,511      —  

6. Market and Credit Risk:

In the normal course of business, the Portfolios invest in securities and enter into transactions where risks exist due to fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of the issuer of a security to meet all its obligations (credit risk). The value of securities held by the Portfolios may decline in response to certain events, including those directly involving the issuers whose securities are owned by the Portfolios; conditions affecting the general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or economic instability; and currency and interest rate and price fluctuations. Similar to credit risk, the Portfolios may be exposed to counterparty risk, or the risk that an entity with which the Portfolios have unsettled or open transactions may default. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Portfolios to credit and counterparty risks, consist principally of investments and cash due from counterparties. The extent of the Portfolios’ exposure to credit and counterparty risks with respect to these financial assets is approximated by their value recorded in the Portfolios’ Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

7. Capital Shares Transactions:

Transactions in shares for each period were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Global Opportunities

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   366,391     $ 2,823,464     1,871,396     $ 22,994,920  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,598       12,017     52,175       655,316  
                            

Total issued

   367,989       2,835,481     1,923,571       23,650,236  

Shares redeemed

   (2,434,790 )     (17,456,833 )   (927,987 )     (10,862,583 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (2,066,801 )   $ (14,621,352 )   995,584     $ 12,787,653  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   1,073,356     $ 7,538,821     2,077,064     $ 24,760,185  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       138,763       1,741,483  
                            

Total issued

   1,073,356       7,538,821     2,215,827       26,501,668  

Shares redeemed

   (1,262,369 )     (9,241,887 )   (1,483,646 )     (16,792,204 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (189,013 )     (1,703,066 )   732,181     $ 9,709,464  
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    61


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Global Opportunities (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   20,754     $ 151,242     129,011     $ 1,612,083  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       17,440       218,352  
                            

Total issued

   20,754       151,242     146,451       1,830,435  

Shares redeemed

   (126,688 )     (913,700 )   (153,153 )     (1,781,665 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (105,934 )   $ (762,458 )   (6,702 )   $ 48,770  
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   379,140     $ 2,822,226     902,717     $ 11,026,553  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       41,450       518,953  
                            

Total issued

   379,140       2,822,226     944,167       11,545,506  

Shares redeemed

   (695,163 )     (5,116,556 )   (487,805 )     (5,757,989 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (316,023 )   $ (2,294,330 )   456,362     $ 5,787,517  
                            

Health Sciences Opportunities

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   1,889,357     $ 43,831,012     2,360,582     $ 71,114,202  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   654,857       13,743,792     206,270       6,381,988  
                            

Total issued

   2,544,214       57,574,804     2,566,852       77,496,190  

Shares redeemed

   (2,600,620 )     (58,801,768 )   (1,789,484 )     (52,047,635 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (56,406 )   $ (1,226,964 )   777,368     $ 25,448,555  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   89,172     $ 1,999,134     68,625     $ 1,990,269  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   22,209       457,497     9,591       291,761  
                            

Total issued

   111,381       2,456,631     78,216       2,282,030  

Shares redeemed

   (56,236 )     (1,279,773 )   (135,331 )     (3,869,823 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   55,145     $ 1,176,858     (57,115 )   $ (1,587,793 )
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   3,071,148     $ 67,107,970     3,866,195     $ 112,836,542  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,779,579       36,587,917     774,671       23,511,250  
                            

Total issued

   4,850,727       103,695,887     4,640,866       136,347,792  

Shares redeemed

   (6,539,117 )     (144,883,010 )   (7,991,237 )     (229,010,671 )
                            

Net decrease

   (1,688,390 )   $ (41,187,123 )   (3,350,371 )   $ (92,662,879 )
                            

 

62

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Health Sciences Opportunities (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   118,088     $ 2,418,642     134,108     $ 3,724,930  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   288,269       5,632,774     88,135       2,556,802  
                            

Total issued

   406,357       8,051,416     222,243       6,281,732  

Shares redeemed

   (637,827 )     (13,313,527 )   (587,431 )     (16,148,103 )
                            

Net decrease

   (231,470 )   $ (5,262,111 )   (365,188 )   $ (9,866,371 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   806,964     $ 16,591,103     837,443     $ 23,392,641  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   1,084,301       21,143,009     362,228       10,486,508  
                            

Total issued

   1,891,265       37,734,112     1,199,671       33,879,149  

Shares redeemed

   (2,122,136 )     (44,661,191 )   (2,642,187 )     (71,536,281 )
                            

Net decrease

   (230,871 )   $ (6,927,079 )   (1,442,516 )   $ (37,657,132 )
                            

International Opportunities

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   5,638,074     $ 124,928,216     8,315,655     $ 319,379,089  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   44,657       1,008,792     1,290,442       54,624,699  
                            

Total issued

   5,682,731       125,937,008     9,606,097       374,003,788  

Shares redeemed

   (5,392,224 )     (116,240,856 )   (3,940,492 )     (148,720,827 )
                            

Net increase

   290,507     $ 9,696,152     5,665,605     $ 225,282,961  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   880,191     $ 18,429,534     924,653     $ 34,809,315  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       664,200       27,165,771  
                            

Total issued

   880,191       18,429,534     1,588,853       61,975,086  

Shares redeemed

   (800,684 )     (17,096,454 )   (2,795,756 )     (98,602,667 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   79,507     $ 1,333,080     (1,206,903 )   $ (36,627,581 )
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   5,677,874     $ 118,534,318     8,805,941     $ 329,503,186  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   6,522       141,330     2,080,883       84,442,326  
                            

Total issued

   5,684,396       118,675,648     10,886,824       413,945,512  

Shares redeemed

   (6,175,548 )     (132,108,781 )   (5,029,800 )     (185,085,966 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (491,152 )   $ (13,433,133 )   5,857,024     $ 228,859,546  
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    63


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

International Opportunities (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   63,147     $ 1,221,842     211,829     $ 7,530,494  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       403,239       15,379,610  
                            

Total issued

   63,147       1,221,842     615,068       22,910,104  

Shares redeemed

   (392,405 )     (7,665,552 )   (1,192,608 )     (42,182,227 )
                            

Net decrease

   (329,258 )   $ (6,443,710 )   (577,540 )   $ (19,272,123 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   732,177     $ 14,377,182     2,674,323     $ 93,386,640  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   —         —       1,055,533       40,132,456  
                            

Total issued

   732,177       14,377,182     3,729,856       133,519,096  

Shares redeemed

   (1,970,663 )     (38,545,359 )   (1,849,406 )     (63,026,557 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (1,238,486 )   $ (24,168,177 )   1,880,450     $ 70,492,539  
                            

Science & Technology Opportunities

                        

Institutional

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   —       $ —       5,985,171     $ 44,785,989  

Shares sold

   211,480       1,097,021     200,203       1,729,191  
                            

Total issued

   211,480       1,097,021     6,185,374       46,515,180  

Shares redeemed

   (2,970,913 )     (15,717,566 )   (198,473 )     (1,555,290 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (2,759,433 )   $ (14,620,545 )   5,986,901     $ 44,959,890  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   849     $ 4,874     7,103     $ 61,566  

Shares redeemed

   (5,505 )     (28,353 )   (5,386 )     (41,218 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (4,656 )   $ (23,479 )   1,717     $ 20,348  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   —       $ —       8,192,933     $ 59,135,218  

Shares sold

   1,360,578       7,235,368     2,789,422       21,786,402  
                            

Total issued

   1,360,578       7,235,368     10,982,355       80,921,620  

Shares redeemed

   (1,576,311 )     (8,263,833 )   (2,652,055 )     (19,857,422 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (215,733 )   $ (1,028,465 )   8,330,300     $ 61,064,198  
                            

 

64

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

Science & Technology Opportunities (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   —       $ —       1,380,801     $ 9,336,277  

Shares sold

   79,113       388,098     153,054       1,159,204  
                            

Total issued

   79,113       388,098     1,533,855       10,495,481  

Shares redeemed

   (668,157 )     (3,240,147 )   (806,074 )     (5,864,330 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (589,044 )   $ (2,852,049 )   727,781     $ 4,631,151  
                            

Investor C

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   —       $ —       2,471,268     $ 16,692,503  

Shares sold

   191,409       928,758     288,948       2,212,142  
                            

Total issued

   191,409       928,758     2,760,216       18,904,645  

Shares redeemed

   (656,876 )     (3,248,864 )   (443,267 )     (3,147,730 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (465,467 )   $ (2,320,106 )   2,316,949     $ 15,756,915  
                            

R

        

Shares issued from the reorganization

   —       $ —       186,241     $ 1,392,331  

Shares sold

   67,392       380,565     12,787       94,885  
                            

Total issued

   67,392       380,565     199,028       1,487,216  

Shares redeemed

   (33,782 )     (179,562 )   (3,537 )     (25,552 )
                            

Net increase

   33,610     $ 201,003     195,491     $ 1,461,664  
                            

U.S. Opportunities

                        

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   12,585,327     $ 295,846,450     6,527,636     $ 232,856,375  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends

   1,747       37,968     —         —    
                            

Total issued

   12,587,074       295,884,418     6,527,636       232,856,375  

Shares redeemed

   (2,753,211 )     (63,029,753 )   (1,386,445 )     (48,859,106 )
                            

Net increase

   9,833,863     $ 232,854,665     5,141,191     $ 183,997,269  
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   2,882,495     $ 64,344,882     3,094,115     $ 107,890,871  

Shares redeemed

   (1,187,870 )     (26,025,892 )   (727,325 )     (24,788,342 )
                            

Net increase

   1,694,625     $ 38,318,990     2,366,790     $ 83,102,529  
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   11,133,074     $ 247,716,338     12,405,934     $ 421,435,122  

Shares redeemed

   (5,967,703 )     (134,261,506 )   (2,468,662 )     (83,100,583 )
                            

Net increase

   5,165,371     $ 113,454,832     9,937,272     $ 338,334,539  
                            

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    65


Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 

U.S. Opportunities (concluded)

   Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   174,206     $ 3,621,484     309,367     $ 9,956,416  

Shares redeemed

   (158,239 )     (3,191,173 )   (643,101 )     (20,686,509 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   15,967     $ 430,311     (333,734 )   $ (10,730,093 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   2,496,768     $ 51,801,720     3,202,904     $ 102,028,096  

Shares redeemed

   (1,132,338 )     (23,100,925 )   (687,264 )     (21,479,035 )
                            

Net increase

   1,364,430     $ 28,700,795     2,515,640     $ 80,549,061  
                            

There is a 2% redemption fee on shares of certain Portfolios redeemed or exchanged which have been held for 30 days or less. The redemption fees are collected and retained by the Portfolio for the benefit of the remaining shareholders. The redemption fees are recorded as a credit to paid-in capital.

 

66

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Officers and Trustees

Ronald W. Forbes, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

Rodney D. Johnson, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

David O. Beim, Trustee

Dr. Matina Horner, Trustee

Herbert I. London, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Cynthia A. Montgomery, Trustee

Joseph P. Platt, Jr., Trustee

Robert C. Robb, Jr., Trustee

Toby Rosenblatt, Trustee

Kenneth L. Urish, Chairman of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Frederick W. Winter, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Richard S. Davis, Trustee

Henry Gabbay, Trustee

Donald C. Burke, Fund President and Chief Executive Officer

Anne F. Ackerley, Vice President

Neal J. Andrews, Chief Financial Officer

Jay M. Fife, Treasurer

Brian P. Kindelan, Chief Compliance Officer of the Fund

Howard Surloff, Secretary

Investment Advisor and Co-Administrator

BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Wilmington, DE 19809

Sub-Advisor - International Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock International, Ltd.

Edinburgh, Scotland EH3 8JB

Sub-Advisor - Global Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.

New York, NY 10022

Custodian

PFPC Trust Company

Philadelphia, PA 19153

Co-Administrator and Transfer Agent

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc.

Wilmington, DE 19809

Distributor

BlackRock Investments, LLC

New York, NY 10022

Legal Counsel

Sidley Austin LLP

New York, NY 10019

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Address of the Portfolios

100 Bellevue Parkway

Wilmington, DE 19809

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    67


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To enroll:

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts with Investment Advisors, Banks or Brokerages:

Please contact your financial advisor. Please note that not all investment advisors, banks or brokerages may offer this service.

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts Directly With BlackRock

 

1) Access the BlackRock website at

http://www.blackrock.com/edelivery

 

2) Click on the applicable link and follow the steps to sign up 3) Log into your account

Householding

The Fund will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including prospectuses, annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and it is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your shareholder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please contact the Fund at (800) 441-7762.

 

68

 

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available (1) without charge, upon request by calling (800) 441-7762; (2) at www.blackrock.com; and (3) on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Proxy Voting Record

Information about how the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolios during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request and without charge (1) at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 441-7762 (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at http:// www.sec.gov and may also 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 (800) SEC-0330. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling (800) 441-7762.

Shareholder Privileges

Account Information

Call us at (800) 441-7762 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST Monday through Friday to get information about your account balances, recent transactions and share prices. You can also reach us on the Web at www.blackrock.com/funds.

Automatic Investment Plans

Investor Class shareholders who want to invest regularly can arrange to have $50 or more automatically deducted from their checking or savings account and invested in any of the BlackRock portfolios.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan

Investor Class shareholders can establish a systematic withdrawal plan and receive periodic payments of $50 or more from their BlackRock portfolios, as long as their account is at least $10,000.

Retirement Plans

Shareholders may make investments in conjunction with Traditional, Rollover, Roth, Coverdell, Simple IRA’s, SEP IRA’s and 403(b) Plans.

 

   

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009    69


A World-Class Mutual Fund Family

BlackRock offers a diverse lineup of open-end mutual funds crossing all investment styles and managed by experts in equity, fixed income and tax-exempt investing.

 

Equity Funds

     

BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

  

BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Asset Allocation Portfolio†

  

BlackRock Global SmallCap Fund

  

BlackRock Mid Cap Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Aurora Portfolio

  

BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Natural Resources Trust

BlackRock Balanced Capital Fund†

  

BlackRock Healthcare Fund

  

BlackRock Pacific Fund

BlackRock Basic Value Fund

  

BlackRock Index Equity Portfolio*

  

BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Diversification Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Equity Dividend Fund

  

BlackRock International Index Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Fund II

BlackRock EuroFund

  

BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Small Cap Index Fund

BlackRock Focus Growth Fund

  

BlackRock International Value Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

BlackRock Focus Value Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Core Fund

  

BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

BlackRock Fundamental Growth Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Core Plus Fund

  

BlackRock S&P 500 Index Fund

BlackRock Global Allocation Fund†

  

BlackRock Large Cap Growth Fund

  

BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Global Dynamic Equity Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Value Fund

  

BlackRock Utilities and Telecommunications Fund

BlackRock Global Emerging Markets Fund

  

BlackRock Latin America Fund

  

BlackRock Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Global Financial Services Fund

  

BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

  

BlackRock Global Growth Fund

     

 

Fixed Income Funds

     

BlackRock Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Income Builder Portfolio

  

BlackRock Short-Term Bond Fund

BlackRock Emerging Market Debt Portfolio

  

BlackRock Inflation Protected Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Strategic Income Portfolio

BlackRock Enhanced Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Intermediate Government Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Total Return Fund

BlackRock GNMA Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Total Return Portfolio II

BlackRock Government Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Long Duration Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock World Income Fund

BlackRock High Income Fund

  

BlackRock Low Duration Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock High Yield Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Managed Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Income Portfolio

     

 

Municipal Bond Funds

     

BlackRock AMT-Free Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Kentucky Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock New York Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock California Municipal Bond Fund

  

BlackRock Municipal Insured Fund

  

BlackRock Ohio Municipal Bond Portfolio

BlackRock Delaware Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock National Municipal Fund

  

BlackRock Pennsylvania Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock High Yield Municipal Fund

  

BlackRock New Jersey Municipal Bond Fund

  

BlackRock Short-Term Municipal Fund

BlackRock Intermediate Municipal Fund

     

 

Target Risk & Target Date Funds

     

BlackRock Prepared Portfolios

  

BlackRock Lifecycle Prepared Portfolios

  

        Conservative Prepared Portfolio

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2010

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2030

        Moderate Prepared Portfolio

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2015

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2035

        Growth Prepared Portfolio

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2020

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2040

        Aggressive Growth Prepared Portfolio

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2025

  

        Prepared Portfolio 2045

     

        Prepared Portfolio 2050

 

* See the prospectus for information on specific limitations on investments in the fund.
Mixed asset fund.

BlackRock mutual funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. You should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the funds under consideration carefully before investing. Each fund’s prospectus contains this and other information and is available at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 882-0052 or from your financial advisor. The prospectus should be read carefully before investing.

 

70  

SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

   MARCH 31, 2009     


LOGO

This report is transmitted to shareholders only. It is not authorized for use as an offer of sale or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Portfolios unless accompanied or preceded by the Portfolios’ current prospectus. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. Investment returns and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change.

Investment in foreign securities involves special risks including fluctuating foreign exchange rates, foreign government regulations, differing degrees of liquidity and the possibility of substantial volatility due to adverse political, economic or other developments.

 

   LOGO

EQUITY5-3/09-SAR


EQUITIES    FIXED INCOME    REAL ESTATE    LIQUIDITY    ALTERNATIVES    BLACKROCK SOLUTIONS

 

BlackRock Asset Allocation Portfolio

of BlackRock FundsSM

   LOGO
  
SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT    |    MARCH 31, 2009 (UNAUDITED)   

NOT FDIC INSURED

MAY LOSE VALUE

NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents  

 

     Page

A Letter to Shareholders

   3

Semi-Annual Report:

  

Portfolio Summary

   4

About Portfolio Performance

   6

Disclosure of Expenses

   6

The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging

   7

Financial Statements:

  

Summary Schedule of Investments

   8

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

   20

Statement of Operations

   21

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

   22

Financial Highlights

   23

Notes to Financial Statements

   27

Officers and Trustees

   36

Additional Information

   37

Mutual Fund Family

   39

 

2

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A Letter to Shareholders

The past 12 months have been a period investors would like to forget, but instead will vividly remember, as the global financial crisis erupted into the worst recession in decades. Daily headlines recounted the downfalls of storied financial firms, volatile swings in the world’s financial markets and monumental government actions, including the recent passage of the nearly $800 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The economic data generally deteriorated throughout the reporting period. US gross domestic product (“GDP”) contracted at an annual rate of 6.3% in the fourth quarter of 2008, and economic activity appears on pace to be negative in the first quarter of 2009 as well. The Federal Reserve Board (the “Fed”) took forceful action to revive the global economy and ailing financial system. In addition to slashing the federal funds target rate from 3.0% to a record low range of 0% to 0.25%, the central bank provided enormous cash infusions and radically expanded its balance sheet through a range of lending and acquisition programs.

Against this backdrop, US equities contended with high levels of volatility and posted steep losses, notwithstanding a powerful rally in the final month of the reporting period. International markets also experienced sharp downturns, with some regions declining as much or more than the United States. Risk aversion remained the dominant theme in fixed income markets, as investors sought out the haven of Treasury issues at the expense of virtually all other asset classes. High yield issues, in particular, faced unprecedented challenges and posted severe underperformance; that said, the sector pared its losses in the first quarter of 2009, as both liquidity and investor sentiment toward lower-quality debt improved. At the same time, the start of the new year brought somewhat of a return to normalcy for the tax-exempt market, which registered one of its worst years on record in 2008.

In all, investors continued to gravitate toward relative safety, as evidenced in the six- and 12-month returns of the major benchmark indexes:

 

Total Returns as of March 31, 2009

   6-month     12-month  

US equities (S&P 500 Index)

   (30.54 )%   (38.09 )%

Small cap US equities (Russell 2000 Index)

   (37.17 )   (37.50 )

International equities (MSCI Europe, Australasia, Far East Index)

   (31.11 )   (46.50 )

US Treasury securities (Merrill Lynch 10-Year US Treasury Index)

   11.88     10.46  

Taxable fixed income (Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index)

   4.70     3.13  

Tax-exempt fixed income (Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index)

   5.00     2.27  

High yield bonds (Barclays Capital US Corporate High Yield 2% Issuer Capped Index)

   (12.65 )   (18.56 )

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Index performance shown for illustrative purposes only. You cannot invest directly in an index.

Through periods of market turbulence, as ever, BlackRock’s full resources are dedicated to the management of our clients’ assets. We thank you for entrusting BlackRock with your investments and look forward to continuing to serve you in the months and years ahead.

 

Sincerely,
LOGO
Rob Kapito
President, BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Seeking additional investment insights?

Visit BlackRock’s award-winning Shareholder® magazine, now available exclusively online at www.blackrock.com/shareholdermagazine. In this issue:

 

   

Discover why portfolio diversification still matters — even as nearly every financial asset class lost value over the past year.

 

   

Learn how adding commodities to a more traditional mix of assets can help you to balance risks and access new potential rewards.

 

   

Assuage your fears about higher taxes and discover how municipal bonds may offer some relief.

 

   

Find out if there’s still value to be found in dividend-paying stocks.

THIS PAGE NOT PART OF YOUR FUND REPORT

 

              3


Portfolio Summary as of March 31, 2009   

Portfolio Management Commentary

How did the Portfolio perform?

 

   

For the six-month period, the Portfolio underperformed its benchmark, a 60%/40% composite of the S&P 500 Index and the Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index.

What factors influenced performance?

 

   

Stock selection by the Portfolio’s underlying managers detracted from performance over the reporting period. Our fixed income allocation was a large detractor, followed by our global energy, large value and small core equity strategies.

 

   

By contrast, allocation decisions among the Portfolio’s underlying managers were positive. This effect was equally split between broad allocation decisions (stocks, bonds and cash) and sub-allocation to the Portfolio’s underlying managers. Among the Portfolio’s underlying managers, the domestic large growth and non-US equity segment, both smaller cap and large cap, made the most significant contribution.

Describe recent Portfolio activity.

 

   

We added US large cap and European large cap equity exposure in mid- December to reduce the equity underweight and bring the Portfolio closer to a neutral equity stance.

 

   

At the end of the period, we moved the Portfolio from slightly overweight equities to flat by reducing European large cap exposure.

Describe Portfolio positioning at period-end.

 

   

At the end of the period, the Portfolio was neutral relative to the benchmark in its equity and fixed income weightings. We favor US stocks to developed international ones, remain neutral on value versus growth and prefer large cap to small cap. Our fixed income allocations are tilted toward the inflation and credit sectors.

 

   

Looking ahead, we believe that 2009 will present a strong opportunity for security selection as the market begins to differentiate winning names from losing ones in both the equity and fixed income universes. Accordingly, a large part of the Portfolio’s active risk is allocated to our set of underlying managers, through which we have strong prospects of creating alpha.

Portfolio Profile as of March 31, 2009

 

Ten Largest Holdings

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Federal National Mortgage Assoc.

   14 %

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.

   4  

Government National Mortgage Assoc.

   3  

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

   2  

The Bear Stearns Cos., Inc.

   1  

Credit Suisse Group.

   1  

Wells Fargo & Co.

   1  

Morgan Stanley

   1  

General Electric Co.

   1  

Student Loan Marketing Corp.

   1  

 

Portfolio Composition

   Percent of
Long-Term
Investments
 

Common Stocks

   49 %

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

   18  

Corporate Bonds

   12  

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

   10  

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Obligations

   4  

Asset Backed Securities

   4  

Foreign Government Obligations

   1  

U.S. Treasury Obligations

   1  

Capital Trusts

   1  

 

4

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment   

LOGO

 

1

Assuming maximum sales charge, if any, transaction costs and other operating expenses, including advisory fees. Institutional shares do not have a sales charge.

 

2

The Portfolio uses an asset allocation strategy, investing varying percentages of its portfolio in three major categories: stocks, bonds and, to a lesser extent, money market instruments.

 

3

This unmanaged index covers 500 industrial, utility, transportation and financial companies of the US markets (mostly NYSE issues) representing about 75% of the NYSE market capitalization and 30% of NYSE issues. S&P 500 is a trademark of the McGraw-Hill Companies.

 

4

An unmanaged index comprised of more than 5,000 taxable bonds. This is an index of investment grade bonds. All securities included must be rated investment grade by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., Standard & Poor’s or Fitch Ratings.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Performance Summary for the Period Ended March 31, 2009

 

           Average Annual Total Returns5  
           1 Year     5 Years     10 Years  
     6-Month
Total Returns
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
    w/o sales
charge
    w/sales
charge
 

Institutional

   (17.84 )%   (26.69 )%   N/A     (0.83 )%   N/A     3.09 %   N/A  

Service

   (17.94 )   (26.83 )   N/A     (1.07 )   N/A     2.86     N/A  

Investor A

   (17.99 )   (26.93 )   (30.76 )%   (1.18 )   (2.23 )%   2.76     2.20 %

Investor B

   (18.29 )   (27.66 )   (30.82 )   (1.95 )   (2.25 )   2.16     2.16  

Investor C

   (18.28 )   (27.46 )   (28.16 )   (1.90 )   (1.90 )   2.02     2.02  

60% S&P 500 Index/40% Barclays Capital US Aggregate Bond Index

   (17.55 )   (23.35 )   N/A     (1.03 )   N/A     0.73     N/A  

 

5

Assuming maximum sales charge. Average annual total returns with and without sales charges reflect reductions for distribution and service fees. See “About Portfolio Performance” on page 6 for a detailed description of share classes, including any related sales charges and fees.

N/A - Not applicable as share class and index do not have a sales charge.

Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Expense Example

 

     Actual    Hypothetical7
     Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period6
   Beginning
Account Value
October 1, 2008
   Ending
Account Value
March 31, 2009
   Expenses Paid
During the Period6

Institutional

   $ 1,000.00    $ 821.60    $ 3.91    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,020.66    $ 4.34

Service

   $ 1,000.00    $ 820.60    $ 5.13    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,019.30    $ 5.70

Investor A

   $ 1,000.00    $ 820.10    $ 5.76    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,018.59    $ 6.41

Investor B

   $ 1,000.00    $ 817.10    $ 9.38    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,014.55    $ 10.45

Investor C

   $ 1,000.00    $ 817.20    $ 8.93    $ 1,000.00    $ 1,015.05    $ 9.95

 

6

For each class of the Portfolio, expenses are equal to the annualized expense ratio for the class (0.86% for Institutional, 1.13% for Service, 1.27% for Investor A, 2.07% for Investor B and 1.97% for Investor C), multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/365 (to reflect the one-half year period shown).

 

7

Hypothetical 5% annual return before expenses is calculated by pro-rating the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by 365.

See “Disclosure of Expenses” on page 6 for further information on how expenses were calculated.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    5


About Portfolio Performance   

 

   

Institutional Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge and are available only to eligible investors. These shares bear no ongoing distribution or service fees.

 

   

Service Shares are not subject to any sales charge (front-end load) or deferred sales charge. These shares are subject to a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end load) of 5.25% and a service fee of 0.25% per year (but no distribution fee).

 

   

Investor B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 4.50% declining to 0% after six years. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year. These shares automatically convert to Investor A Shares after approximately eight years. (There is no initial sales charge for automatic share conversions.) All returns for periods greater than eight years reflect this conversion.

 

   

Investor C Shares are subject to a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within one year of purchase. In addition, these shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.75% per year and a service fee of 0.25% per year.

Performance information reflects past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Refer to www.blackrock.com/funds to obtain performance data current to the most recent month-end. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. The Portfolio may charge a 2% redemption fee for sales or exchanges of shares within 30 days of purchase or exchange. Performance data does not reflect this potential fee. Figures shown in the performance tables on the previous pages assume reinvestment of all dividends and distributions, if any, at net asset value on the ex-dividend date. Investment return and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each class of shares will vary because of the different levels of service, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid to shareholders.

The performance information on the previous pages includes information for each class of the Portfolio since the commencement of operations of the Portfolio, rather than the date such class was introduced. Performance information for each class introduced after the commencement of operations of the Portfolio is therefore based on the performance history of a predecessor class adjusted to reflect the class specific fees applicable to each class at the time of the launch of such share class. This information may be considered when assessing the Portfolio’s performance, but does not represent the actual performance of this share class.

Performance for the Portfolio for the periods prior to January 31, 2005 is based on performance of the former State Street Research mutual fund that reorganized with the Portfolio on that date.

The performance information also reflects fee waivers and reimbursements that subsidize and reduce the total operating expenses of the Portfolio. The Portfolio’s returns would have been lower if there were no such waivers and reimbursements. BlackRock Advisors, LLC is under no obligation to waive or continue waiving its fees after February 1, 2010.

Disclosure of Expenses

Shareholders of the Portfolio may incur the following charges: (a) expenses related to transactions, including sales charges and redemption fees; and (b) operating expenses, including advisory fees, service and distribution fees including 12b-1 fees, and other Portfolio expenses. The expense example on the previous page (which is based on a hypothetical investment of $1,000 invested on October 1, 2008 and held through March 31, 2009) are intended to assist shareholders both in calculating expenses based on an investment in the Portfolio and in comparing these expenses with similar costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The Expense Example table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. In order to estimate the expenses a shareholder paid during the period covered by this report, shareholders can divide their account value by $1,000 and then multiply the result by the number corresponding to their share class under the headings entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

The table also provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Portfolio’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses. In order to assist shareholders in comparing the ongoing expenses of investing in the Portfolio and other funds, compare the 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in other funds’ shareholder reports.

The expenses shown in the table are intended to highlight shareholders’ ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional expenses, such as sales charges, redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the hypothetical table is useful in comparing ongoing expenses only, and will not help shareholders determine the relative total expenses of owning different funds. If these transactional expenses were included, shareholder expenses would have been higher.

 

6

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


The Benefits and Risks of Leveraging   

The Portfolio may utilize leverage to seek to enhance the yield and NAV. However, these objectives cannot be achieved in all interest rate environments.

The Portfolio may utilize leverage through borrowings or issuance of short-term debt securities including reverse repurchase agreements, or through other techniques, such as dollar rolls. In general, the concept of leveraging is based on the premise that the cost of assets to be obtained from leverage will be based on short-term interest rates, which normally will be lower than the income earned by the Portfolio on its longer-term portfolio investments. To the extent that the total assets of the Portfolio (including the assets obtained from leverage) are invested in higher-yielding portfolio investments, the Portfolio’s shareholders will benefit from the incremental yield.

The use of leverage may enhance opportunities for increased returns to the Portfolio, but as described above, they also create risks as short- or long-term interest rates fluctuate. Leverage also will generally cause greater changes in the Portfolio’s NAV, market price and dividend rate than a comparable portfolio without leverage. If the income derived from securities purchased with assets received from leverage exceeds the cost of leverage, the Portfolio’s net income will be greater than if leverage had not been used. Conversely, if the income from the securities purchased is not sufficient to cover the cost of leverage, the Portfolio’s net income will be less than if leverage had not been used, and therefore the amount available for distribution to shareholders will be reduced. The Portfolio may be required to sell portfolio securities at inopportune times or below fair market values in order to comply with regulatory requirements applicable to the use of leverage or as required by the terms of leverage instruments which may cause the Portfolio to incur losses. The use of leverage may limit the Portfolio’s ability to invest in certain types of securities or use certain types of hedging strategies. The Portfolio will incur expenses in connection with the use of leverage, all of which are borne by Portfolio shareholders and may reduce investment returns.

Derivative Instruments

The Portfolio may invest in various derivative instruments, including swap agreements, swaptions, futures and forward currency contracts, and other instruments specified in the Notes to Financial Statements, which constitute additional forms of economic leverage. Such instruments are used to obtain exposure to a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities or to hedge market and/or interest rate risks. Such derivative instruments involve risks, including the imperfect correlation between the value of a derivative instrument and the underlying asset, possible default of the other party to the transaction and illiquidity of the derivative instrument. The Portfolio’s ability to successfully use a derivative instrument depends on the Advisor’s ability to accurately predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. The use of derivative instruments may result in losses greater than if they had not been used, may require the Portfolio to sell or purchase portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices other than current market values, may limit the amount of appreciation the Portfolio can realize on an investment or may cause the Portfolio to hold a security that it might otherwise sell. The Portfolio’s investments in these instruments are discussed in detail in the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    7


Summary Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)   

This summary schedule of investments is presented to help investors focus on the Portfolio’s principal holdings. It includes the Portfolio’s 50 largest holdings, each investment of any issuer that exceeds 1% of the Portfolio’s net assets and affiliated issues. “Other Securities” represent all issues not required to be disclosed under the rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission. A complete schedule of investments is available without charge, upon request, by calling 800-441-7762 or on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Asset Backed Securities

   Par
(000)
   Value    Percentages
of Net Assets
 

MBNA Credit Card Master Note Trust, Series 06-A4, Class A4,

        

0.55%, 9/15/11(a)

   $ 1,650    $ 1,648,303    0.4 %

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 05-4, Class A2,

        

1.24%, 4/26/21(a)

     475      459,091    0.1 %

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 08-5, Class A2,

        

2.26%, 10/25/16(a)

     1,720      1,682,043    0.4 %

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 08-5, Class A3,

        

2.46%, 1/25/18(a)

     440      429,744    0.1 %

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 08-5, Class A4,

        

2.86%, 7/25/23(a)

     1,170      1,105,865    0.2 %

Other Securities(b)

        10,555,932    2.4 %
                

Total Asset Backed Securities — 3.6%

        15,880,978    3.6 %
                

Capital Trusts

        

Commercial Banks — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        589,197    0.1 %
                

Diversified Financial Services — 0.5%

        

Credit Suisse Guernsey Ltd. (Switzerland), Unsecured Notes,

        

5.86%(a)(c)(d)

     530      196,416    0.0 %

General Electric Capital Corp., Subordinated Debentures,

        

6.38%, 11/15/67(a)

     475      230,652    0.1 %

JPMorgan Chase & Co., Subordinated Depositary Shares,

        

7.90%(a)(d)

     775      498,046    0.1 %

JPMorgan Chase Capital XXV, Subordinated Capital Securities,

        

6.80%, 10/01/37

     1,150      761,612    0.2 %

Other Securities

        496,201    0.1 %
                
        2,182,927    0.5 %
                

Insurance — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        416,007    0.1 %
                

Total Capital Trusts — 0.7%

        3,188,131    0.7 %
                

Collateralized Debt

        

Obligations — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        —      0.0 %
                

Common Stocks

   Shares            

Aerospace & Defense — 0.9%

        

Other Securities

        3,931,076    0.9 %
                

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,339,213    0.3 %
                

Airlines — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,209,686    0.3 %
                

Auto Components — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        753,146    0.2 %
                

Automobiles — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,424,230    0.3 %
                

Beverages — 0.9%

        

The Coca-Cola Co.

     42,873      1,884,268    0.4 %

Other Securities

        2,003,900    0.5 %
                
        3,888,168    0.9 %
                

Biotechnology — 0.9%

        

Other Securities

        3,727,902    0.9 %
                

Building Products — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        61,500    0.0 %
                

Capital Markets — 0.9%

        

Morgan Stanley

     12,100      275,517    0.0 %

Other Securities

        3,849,271    0.9 %
                
        4,124,788    0.9 %
                

Chemicals — 1.0%

        

Other Securities

        4,351,514    1.0 %
                

Commercial Banks — 1.7%

        

Wells Fargo & Co.

     42,500      605,200    0.2 %

Other Securities

        6,727,199    1.5 %
                
        7,332,399    1.7 %
                

Portfolio Abbreviations

 

To simplify the listings of Portfolio holdings in the Schedule of Investments, we have abbreviated certain descriptions according to the list on the right.   AUD   Australian Dollar   HKD   Hong Kong Dollar
  CAD   Canadian Dollar   JPY   Japanese Yen
  CHF   Swiss Francs   LIBOR   London InterBank Offered Rate
  CZK   Czech Koruna   NOK   Norwegian Krone
  DJIA   Dow Jones Industrial Average   SEK   Swedish Krona
  DKK   Danish Krone   SGD   Singapore Dollar
  EUR   Euro   TBA   To-Be-Announced
  GBP   British Pound   USD   United States Dollar
      ZAR   South African Rand

 

8

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

Common Stocks

   Shares    Value    Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.9%

        

Other Securities

      $ 3,739,748    0.9 %
                

Communications Equipment — 1.4%

        

Cisco Systems, Inc.(e)

   103,816      1,740,994    0.4 %

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   63,922      2,487,205    0.6 %

Other Securities

        1,814,497    0.4 %
                
        6,042,696    1.4 %
                

Computers & Peripherals — 1.4%

        

Apple, Inc.(e)

   16,234      1,706,518    0.4 %

International Business Machines Corp.

   20,625      1,998,356    0.5 %

Other Securities

        2,323,735    0.5 %
                
        6,028,609    1.4 %
                

Construction & Engineering — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,294,569    0.3 %
                

Construction Materials — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        13,877    0.0 %
                

Consumer Finance — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        83,232    0.0 %
                

Containers & Packaging — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,523,842    0.3 %
                

Distributors — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        89,336    0.0 %
                

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,295,030    0.3 %
                

Diversified Financial Services — 1.1%

        

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

   62,025      1,648,625    0.4 %

Other Securities

        3,209,774    0.7 %
                
        4,858,399    1.1 %
                

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.1%

        

AT&T, Inc.

   62,099      1,564,895    0.3 %

Other Securities

        3,390,943    0.8 %
                
        4,955,838    1.1 %
                

Electric Utilities — 0.8%

        

Other Securities

        3,415,609    0.8 %
                

Electrical Equipment — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,088,968    0.3 %
                

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.5%

        

Other Securities

        2,251,685    0.5 %
                

Energy Equipment & Services — 1.3%

        

Other Securities

        5,649,038    1.3 %
                

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.3%

        

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

   45,586      2,375,030    0.5 %

Other Securities

        3,515,154    0.8 %
                
        5,890,184    1.3 %
                

Food Products — 1.0%

        

Other Securities

        4,580,004    1.0 %
                

Gas Utilities — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,311,982    0.3 %
                

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.9%

        

Other Securities

        4,109,943    0.9 %
                

Health Care Providers & Services — 1.5%

        

Other Securities

        6,641,863    1.5 %
                

Health Care Technology — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        288,048    0.1 %
                

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.1%

        

Other Securities

        4,897,376    1.1 %
                

Household Durables — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,477,250    0.3 %
                

Household Products — 0.5%

        

Other Securities

        2,184,180    0.5 %
                

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        387,739    0.1 %
                

Industrial Conglomerates — 0.6%

        

Other Securities

        2,764,722    0.6 %
                

Insurance — 1.8%

        

Other Securities

        7,718,027    1.8 %
                

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,314,408    0.3 %
                

Internet Software & Services — 0.7%

        

Google, Inc. - Class A(e)

   4,722      1,643,539    0.4 %

Other Securities

        1,583,765    0.3 %
                
        3,227,304    0.7 %
                

IT Services — 0.6%

        

Other Securities

        2,720,753    0.6 %
                

Leisure Equipment & Products — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        331,369    0.1 %
                

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,370,169    0.3 %
                

Machinery — 1.4%

        

Danaher Corp.

   28,500      1,545,270    0.4 %

Other Securities

        4,496,779    1.0 %
                
        6,042,049    1.4 %
                

Media — 1.1%

        

Other Securities

        4,682,414    1.1 %
                

Metals & Mining — 1.6%

        

Eldorado Gold Corp., Exchange Receipts (acquired 7/14/08, cost $0, unrestricted issue on 7/14/08 was valued at $8.72 per share)(e)(f)

   79,200      0    0.0 %

Other Securities

        6,822,552    1.6 %
                
        6,822,552    1.6 %
                

Multiline Retail — 0.6%

        

Other Securities

        2,499,287    0.6 %
                

Multi-Utilities — 0.5%

        

Other Securities

        2,186,719    0.5 %
                

Office Electronics — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        843,916    0.2 %
                

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 5.4%

        

Chevron Corp.

   23,675      1,591,907    0.4 %

Exxon Mobil Corp.

   59,800      4,072,380    0.9 %

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    9


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

      Shares    Value    Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Common Stocks

        

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

        

Longview Energy Co. (acquired 8/13/04, cost $48,000)(e)(f)

     3,200    $ 58,720    0.0 %

Matador Resources Co. (acquired 10/14/03 through 4/13/06, cost
$62,950)(e)(f)

     8,685      117,161    0.0 %

Other Securities

        17,827,767    4.1 %
                
        23,667,935    5.4 %
                

Paper & Forest Products — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        299,176    0.1 %
                

Personal Products — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        377,883    0.1 %
                

Pharmaceuticals — 2.7%

        

Abbott Laboratories

     37,425      1,785,173    0.4 %

Johnson & Johnson

     31,200      1,641,120    0.4 %

Other Securities

        8,441,721    1.9 %
                
        11,868,014    2.7 %
                

Professional Services — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        608,512    0.1 %
                

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 0.6%

        

Other Securities

        2,630,409    0.6 %
                

Real Estate Management & Development — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,223,895    0.3 %
                

Road & Rail — 0.5%

        

Other Securities

        2,093,807    0.5 %
                

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.4%

        

Other Securities

        6,208,400    1.4 %
                

Software — 2.2%

        

Microsoft Corp.

     88,625      1,628,041    0.4 %

Oracle Corp.

     91,950      1,661,536    0.4 %

Other Securities

        6,130,892    1.4 %
                
        9,420,469    2.2 %
                

Specialty Retail — 1.3%

        

Other Securities

        5,756,134    1.3 %
                

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.4%

        

Other Securities

        1,536,259    0.4 %
                

Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        596,462    0.1 %
                

Tobacco — 0.4%

        

Other Securities

        1,746,766    0.4 %
                

Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        1,070,579    0.2 %
                

Transportation Infrastructure — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        467,704    0.1 %
                

Water Utilities — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        205,165    0.0 %
                

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.9%

        

Other Securities

        3,892,671    0.9 %
                

Total Common Stocks — 50.8%

        222,436,596    50.8 %
                
      Par
(000)
           

Corporate Bonds

        

Aerospace & Defense — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        32,987    0.0 %
                

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,227,998    0.3 %
                

Auto Components — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        122,200    0.0 %
                

Capital Markets — 0.7%

        

Morgan Stanley, Senior Notes,

        

1.65%, 1/09/12(a)

   $ 925      742,388    0.2 %

5.55%, 4/27/17

     115      102,332    0.0 %

Other Securities

        2,281,830    0.5 %
                
        3,126,550    0.7 %
                

Chemicals — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        167,500    0.0 %
                

Commercial Banks — 0.9%

        

Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufbau (Germany), Unsecured Notes,

        

3.50%, 3/10/14(c)

     1,700      1,718,583    0.4 %

Other Securities

        2,194,403    0.5 %
                
        3,912,986    0.9 %
                

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        22,638    0.0 %
                

Computers & Peripherals — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        717,072    0.2 %
                

Consumer Finance — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        505,822    0.1 %
                

Containers & Packaging — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        250,625    0.1 %
                

Diversified Financial Services — 2.3%

        

The Bear Stearns Cos., Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

        

6.95%, 8/10/12

     655      667,030    0.2 %

General Electric Capital Corp., Senior Notes,

        

1.80%, 3/11/11

     2,800      2,807,451    0.6 %

General Electric Capital Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

        

5.00%, 12/01/10

     300      297,697    0.1 %

6.75%, 3/15/32

     50      40,545    0.0 %

General Electric Capital Corp., Unsecured Notes,

        

6.15%, 8/07/37

     505      373,457    0.1 %

JPMorgan Chase & Co., Unsecured Notes,

        

1.65%, 2/23/11

     1,800      1,807,546    0.4 %

5.60%, 6/01/11

     550      555,329    0.1 %

JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Subordinated Notes,

        

6.00%, 7/05/17

     425      406,575    0.1 %

Other Securities

        3,168,065    0.7 %
                
        10,123,695    2.3 %
                

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.9%

        

Other Securities

        4,119,949    0.9 %
                

 

10

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

Corporate Bonds

   Par
(000)
   Value    Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Electric Utilities — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

      $ 1,484,453    0.3 %
                

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        201,425    0.1 %
                

Food & Staples Retailing — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,428,355    0.3 %
                

Food Products — 0.3%

        

Other Securities

        1,480,883    0.3 %
                

Gas Utilities — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        857,426    0.2 %
                

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        256,163    0.1 %
                

Health Care Providers & Services — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        188,025    0.0 %
                

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        425,744    0.1 %
                

Household Durables — 0.5%

        

Other Securities

        2,138,524    0.5 %
                

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        176,700    0.0 %
                

Insurance — 0.4%

        

Other Securities

        1,741,253    0.4 %
                

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        728,400    0.2 %
                

Media — 1.1%

        

Other Securities

        4,578,834    1.1 %
                

Metals & Mining — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        9,100    0.0 %
                

Multiline Retail — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        196,239    0.0 %
                

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.0%

        

Other Securities

        4,238,456    1.0 %
                

Paper & Forest Products — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        90,916    0.0 %
                

Other Securities

        22,875    0.0 %
                

Pharmaceuticals — 1.0%

        

Other Securities

        4,408,561    1.0 %
                

Software — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        1,011,870    0.2 %
                

Specialty Retail — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        675,981    0.2 %
                

Tobacco — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        297,628    0.1 %
                

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.4%

        

Other Securities

        1,743,294    0.4 %
                

Total Corporate Bonds — 12.0%

        52,711,127    12.0 %

Exchange-Traded Funds — 0.1%

   Shares            

Other Securities

     7,863      290,070    0.1 %
                

Foreign Government Obligations

   Par
(000)
           

Argentina — 0.0%

        

Other Securities(b)

        25,775    0.0 %
                

Brazil — 0.2%

        

Other Securities

        1,084,050    0.2 %
                

Colombia — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        313,688    0.1 %
                

El Salvador — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        40,150    0.0 %
                

Germany — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        448,780    0.1 %
                

Indonesia — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        152,378    0.0 %
                

Israel — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        216,131    0.1 %
                

Mexico — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        321,924    0.1 %
                

Panama — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        262,300    0.1 %
                

Peru — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        102,925    0.0 %
                

Philippines — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        423,650    0.1 %
                

Russia — 0.0%

        

Other Securities(b)

        184,814    0.0 %
                

Turkey — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        487,600    0.1 %
                

Ukraine — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        43,000    0.0 %
                

United Kingdom — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        384,224    0.1 %
                

Uruguay — 0.0%

        

Other Securities

        132,000    0.0 %
                

Venezuela — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        290,250    0.1 %
                

Total Foreign Government Obligations — 1.1%

        4,913,639    1.1 %
                

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — 4.5%

        

Bear Stearns Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 05-4, Class 3A1, 5.37%, 8/25/35(a)

   $ 3,978      2,571,394    0.6 %

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    11


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

      Par
(000)
   Value    Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

        

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (concluded)

        

Bear Stearns Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 06-2, Class 2A1,

        

5.65%, 7/25/36(a)

   $ 1,643    $ 838,263    0.2 %

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 06-S2, Class 2A2,

        

5.88%, 7/25/36

     136      98,618    0.0 %

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 07-S1, Class 1A2,

        

5.50%, 3/25/22

     139      103,085    0.0 %

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-HY3, Class 1A1,

        

5.62%, 3/25/37(a)

     3,301      1,612,104    0.4 %

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 05-AR15, Class 2A1,

        

5.11%, 9/25/35(a)

     1,794      1,377,635    0.3 %

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR10, Class IIA2,

        

4.19%, 6/25/35(a)

     1,921      1,422,740    0.3 %

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR12, Class 2A1,

        

6.10%, 9/25/36(a)

     360      226,280    0.0 %

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR17, Class A1,

        

5.33%, 10/25/36(a)

     625      345,757    0.1 %

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR2, Class 2A5,

        

5.08%, 3/25/36(a)

     1,933      1,106,321    0.3 %

Other Securities

        10,076,405    2.3 %
                
        19,778,602    4.5 %
                

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities — 5.9%

        

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 00-WF2, Class A2,

        

7.32%, 10/15/32(a)

     462      466,378    0.1 %

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 02-TOP6, Class A1,

        

5.92%, 10/15/36

     223      223,646    0.1 %

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 03-T12, Class A4,

        

4.68%, 9/13/13(a)

     1,025      898,356    0.2 %

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 99-WF2, Class A2,

        

7.08%, 7/15/31

     94      93,986    0.0 %

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 01-CP4, Class D,

        

6.61%, 12/15/35

     1,450      1,328,099    0.3 %

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 02-CKN2, Class A3,

        

6.13%, 3/15/12

     1,000      981,652    0.2 %

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 02-CKS4, Class A2,

        

5.18%, 8/15/12

     1,090      1,031,918    0.2 %

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 02-CP5, Class A2,

        

4.94%, 12/15/35

     1,010      952,972    0.2 %

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 03-C3, Class A5,

        

3.94%, 5/15/38

     1,020      879,407    0.2 %

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 07-LD11, Class A2,

        

5.80%, 6/15/49(a)

     1,220      973,766    0.2 %

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Inc., Series 01-TOP1, Class A4,

        

6.66%, 2/15/33

     845      838,898    0.2 %

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Inc., Series 02-TOP7, Class A1,

        

5.38%, 1/15/39

     154      153,840    0.0 %

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Inc., Series 05-HQ6, Class A4A,

        

4.99%, 8/13/42

     2,405      1,934,760    0.5 %

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Series 03-IQ4, Class A2,

        

4.07%, 5/15/40

     1,025      889,917    0.2 %

Other Securities

        14,201,424    3.3 %
                
        25,849,019    5.9 %
                

Total Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities — 10.4%

        45,627,621    10.4 %
                

Rights — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        262,759    0.1 %
                

Taxable Municipal Bonds — 0.1%

        

Other Securities

        399,744    0.1 %
                

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency

        

Mortgage-Backed Securities Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — 18.8%

        

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 30 Year TBA,

        

5.00%, 4/01/39(g)

     1,600      1,649,000    0.4 %

5.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     6,300      6,534,281    1.5 %

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Gold,

        

4.50%, 3/01/39

     1,465      1,497,075    0.4 %

Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,

        

5.50%, 1/01/35(h)

     6,357      6,618,135    1.5 %

5.50%, 2/01/35

     5,408      5,636,184    1.3 %

6.00%, 4/01/35

     1,365      1,434,305    0.3 %

5.00%, 2/01/38

     5,636      5,828,533    1.4 %

 

12

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

      Par
(000)
   Value    Percentage
of Net Assets
 

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

        

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (concluded)

        

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 15 Year TBA,

        

4.00%, 4/01/24(g)

   $ 2,000    $ 2,032,500    0.5 %

4.50%, 4/01/24(g)

     2,200      2,264,625    0.5 %

5.50%, 4/01/24(g)

     4,100      4,271,688    1.0 %

6.00%, 4/01/24(g)

     100      104,656    0.0 %

5.00%, 5/01/24(g)

     3,600      3,722,623    0.8 %

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 30 Year TBA,

        

4.50%, 3/01/39-4/01/39(g)

     5,730      5,854,194    1.3 %

5.00%, 4/01/39(g)

     5,900      6,086,219    1.4 %

5.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     1,200      1,245,375    0.3 %

6.00%, 4/01/39(g)

     100      104,406    0.0 %

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. Grantor Trust, Series 03-T1, Class R (IO),

        

0.49%, 11/25/12(a)

     6,352      111,136    0.0 %

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 08-2, Class SA (IO),

        

5.75%, 2/25/38(a)

     1,606      134,964    0.0 %

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 378, Class 5 (IO),

        

5.00%, 7/01/36

     1,790      208,762    0.1 %

Government National Mortgage Assoc. I,

        

6.00%, 12/15/23-1/15/24

     187      196,150    0.1 %

6.50%, 6/15/24-11/15/28

     206      219,161    0.0 %

7.00%, 4/15/29-9/15/31

     773      830,796    0.2 %

6.50%, 1/15/35

     893      939,928    0.2 %

Government National Mortgage Assoc. I 30 Year TBA,

        

4.50%, 4/01/39-5/01/39(g)

     5,300      5,404,875    1.2 %

Government National Mortgage Assoc. II 30 Year TBA,

        

6.00%, 5/01/39(g)

     1,800      1,872,000    0.4 %

Government National Mortgage Assoc., Series 07-72, Class US (IO),

        

6.01%, 11/20/37(a)

     3,511      203,451    0.1 %

Other Securities(g)

        17,238,586    3.9 %
                

Total U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities — 18.8%

        82,243,608    18.8 %
                

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Obligations

        

Federal Home Loan Bank, Bonds,

        

5.38%, 5/15/19

     2,005      2,200,927    0.5 %

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Unsecured Notes,

        

2.13%, 3/23/12

     1,450      1,460,988    0.3 %

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Unsecured Notes,

        

2.88%, 10/12/10

     1,900      1,952,626    0.4 %

2.00%, 1/09/12(h)

     1,915      1,934,303    0.4 %

2.88%, 12/11/13(i)

     1,675      1,712,237    0.4 %

2.75%, 2/05/14

     1,650      1,674,227    0.4 %

2.75%, 3/13/14

     3,400      3,440,586    0.8 %

Other Securities

        2,898,755    0.7 %
                

Total U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Obligations — 3.9%

        17,274,649    3.9 %
                

U.S. Treasury Obligations

        

U.S. Treasury Bonds,

        

8.13%, 8/15/19(j)

     1,025      1,486,250    0.3 %

U.S. Treasury Notes,

        

2.75%, 2/15/19(j)

     2,490      2,503,620    0.6 %

Other Securities

        296,930    0.1 %
                

Total U.S. Treasury Obligations — 1.0%

        4,286,800    1.0 %
                

Warrant — 0.0%

   Shares            

Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp. (issued/exercisable 4/04/08, 1 share for 1 warrant, expiring 10/04/09, strike price 1.80 CAD)(acquired 4/04/08, cost $51)(e)(f)

     5,300      16    0.0 %
                    

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $513,575,743)

        449,515,738    102.6 %
                

Short-Term Securities

   Beneficial
Interest
Par/Shares
(000)
           

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund, 0.60%(k)(l)

     22,244      22,244,139    5.1 %

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series, 1.17%(k)(l)(m)

     1,590      1,590,400    0.3 %

BNP Paribas Finance, Inc., 0.55%, 4/09/09(l)

     5,000      4,999,015    1.1 %

Danske Corp., 1.50%, 6/04/09(l)

     6,000      5,990,272    1.4 %
                    

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $34,817,928)

        34,823,826    7.9 %
                

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    13


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

      Contracts     Value     Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Options Purchased

      

Over-the-Counter Call Swaptions Purchased

      

Other Securities

     $ 51,364     0.0 %
                

Over-the-Counter Put Swaptions Purchased

      

Other Securities

       4,110     0.0 %
                

Total Options Purchased
(Cost — $87,790) — 0.0%

       55,474     0.0 %
                

Total Investments Before TBA Sale Commitments and Outstanding Options Written
(Cost — $548,481,461*)

       484,395,038     110.5 %
                
      Par
(000)
             

TBA Sale Commitments

      

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 30 Year TBA,

      

4.50%, 4/01/39(g)

   $ (2,900 )     (2,958,000 )   (0.7 )%

5.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     (4,600 )     (4,771,062 )   (1.1 )%

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 15 Year TBA,

      

5.50%, 4/01/24(g)

     (4,500 )     (4,688,438 )   (1.1 )%

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 30 Year TBA,

      

4.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     (3,700 )     (3,777,469 )   (0.9 )%

5.00%, 4/01/39- 5/01/39(g)

     (10,800 )     (11,116,832 )   (2.5 )%

5.50%, 4/01/39- 5/01/39(g)

     (10,100 )     (10,456,875 )   (2.4 )%

6.00%, 4/01/39(g)

     (2,300 )     (2,401,344 )   (0.5 )%

6.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     (200 )     (210,625 )   (0.0 )%

7.00%, 4/01/39(g)

     (47 )     (50,056 )   (0.0 )%

Government National Mortgage Assoc. I 30 Year TBA,

      

4.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     (1,600 )     (1,635,500 )   (0.4 )%

5.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     (100 )     (104,062 )   (0.0 )%

6.50%, 4/01/39(g)

     (300 )     (314,531 )   (0.1 )%
                

Total TBA Sale Commitments (Proceeds — $42,210,978) — (9.7)%

       (42,484,794 )   (9.7 )%
                
      Contracts(n)              

Options Written

      

Over-the-Counter Call Swaptions Written

      

Pay a fixed rate of 3.310% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

     (190 )     (86,134 )   (0.0 )%

Pay a fixed rate of 3.330% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

     (210 )     (97,483 )   (0.0 )%

Over-the-Counter Call Swaptions Written (concluded)

      

Pay a fixed rate of 3.470% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

     (190 )     (102,385 )   (0.0 )%

Pay a fixed rate of 4.870% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring February 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

     (570 )     (876,858 )   (0.2 )%

Pay a fixed rate of 5.400% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring December 2010, Broker, UBS AG

     (260 )     (463,301 )   (0.1 )%

Pay a fixed rate of 5.485% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring October 2009, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

     (140 )     (297,260 )   (0.1 )%

Pay a fixed rate of 5.670% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring January 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

     (50 )     (111,300 )   (0.1 )%
                
       (2,034,721 )   (0.5 )%
                

Over-the-Counter Put Swaptions Written

      

Receive a fixed rate of 3.310% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

     (190 )     (60,387 )   (0.0 )%

Receive a fixed rate of 3.330% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

     (210 )     (64,550 )   (0.0 )%

Receive a fixed rate of 3.470% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG 2010, Broker, Barclays Bank, Plc

     (190 )     (44,323 )   (0.0 )%

Receive a fixed rate of 4.870% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring February 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

     (570 )     (20,522 )   (0.0 )%

Receive a fixed rate of 5.400% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring December 2010, Broker, UBS AG

     (260 )     (18,639 )   (0.0 )%

 

14

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

      Contracts(n)     Value     Percentage
of Net Assets
 

Options Written

      

Over-the-Counter Put Swaptions Written (concluded)

      

Receive a fixed rate of 5.485% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring October 2009, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   (140 )   $ (652 )   (0.0 )%

Receive a fixed rate of 5.670% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring January 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

   (50 )     (390 )   (0.0 )%
                
       (259,532 )   (0.0 )%
                

Total Options Written (Premiums Received — $1,551,320) — (0.5)%

       (2,294,253 )   (0.5 )%
                

Total Investments Net of TBA Sale Commitments and Outstanding Options Written — 100.3%

       439,615,991     100.3 %

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.3)%

       (1,384,232 )   (0.3 )%
                

Net Assets — 100.0%

     $ 438,231,759     100.0 %
                

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 555,067,249  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 19,004,287  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (89,676,498 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (70,672,211 )
        

 

(a) Variable rate security. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(b) Represents a step-up bond that pays an initial coupon rate for the first period and then a higher coupon rate for the following periods. Rate shown reflects the effective yield at the time of purchase.

 

(c) U.S. dollar denominated security issued by foreign domiciled entity.

 

(d) Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date. In certain instances, a final maturity date may be extended and/or the final payment of principal may be deferred at the issuer’s option for a specified time without default.

 

(e) Non-income producing security.

 

(f) Restricted security as to resale. As of report date the Portfolio held 0.04% of its net assets, with a current market value of $175,897 and an original cost of $111,001 in these securities.

 

(g) Represents or includes a to-be-announced transaction. The Portfolio has committed to purchasing (selling) securities for which all specific information is not available at this time.

 

Counterparty

   Market Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

AK Capital Services Ltd.

   $ (50,056 )   $ 251  

Bank of America, N.A.

   $ (10,094 )   $ (18,703 )

Barclays Bank, Plc

   $ (2,040,000 )   $ 9,375  

Citibank, N.A.

   $ (16,166,938 )   $ (92,828 )

Credit Suisse International

   $ (7,318,988 )   $ (93,160 )

Deutsche Bank AG

   $ 15,580,311     $ 161,167  

JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   $ 9,915,125     $ 69,094  

 

(h) Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged as collateral for swap contracts.

 

(i) All or a portion of security pledged as collateral in connection with open financial futures contracts.

 

(j) Security, or a portion thereof, subject to mortgage dollar roll transactions.

 

(k) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net Activity     Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 22,244,139 **   $ 49,398

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ 120,500 **   $ 15,713

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

(l) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(m) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans.

 

(n) One contract represents a notional amount of $10,000.

 

 

Foreign currency exchange contracts as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased

   Currency Sold    Counterparty    Settlement
Date
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
AUD 745,000    USD 488,316    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09    $ 29,103  
CAD 569,000    USD 448,247    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      3,065  
CHF 1,355,000    USD 1,205,341    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (14,596 )
CHF 1,000    USD 860    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      19  
CHF 52,000    USD 45,140    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      557  
CHF 23,000    USD 19,406    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      806  
DKK 1,300,000    USD 228,563    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      3,217  
EUR 930,000    USD 1,216,288    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      19,268  
GBP 40,000    USD 57,084    UBS AG    4/15/09      312  
JPY 9,278,000    USD 97,119    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (3,368 )
JPY 23,297,000    USD 260,386    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (24,977 )
JPY 11,987,000    USD 135,310    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (14,185 )
JPY 60,000,000    USD 678,043    UBS AG    4/15/09      (71,761 )
JPY 6,891,000    USD 77,446    UBS AG    4/15/09      (7,815 )
NOK 313,000    USD 43,526    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      3,017  
NOK 370,000    USD 53,191    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      1,827  
SEK 5,577,000    USD 669,335    Royal Bank of Scotland    4/15/09      9,108  
SGD 360,000    USD 241,061    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (4,464 )
USD 52,673    AUD 80,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (2,889 )
USD 35,425    AUD 54,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (2,080 )
USD 39,265    CAD 50,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (394 )
USD 37,000    CAD 45,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,308  
USD 58,495    CAD 72,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,387  
USD 220,823    CAD 270,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      6,668  
USD 44,042    CZK 909,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (74 )
USD 187,765    EUR 138,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      4,424  
USD 32,772    EUR 25,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (442 )

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    15


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

                    Unrealized  

Currency
Purchased

   Currency Sold    Counterparty    Settlement
Date
   Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
USD 50,653    GBP 35,000    Barclays Bank, Plc    4/15/09    $ 432  
USD 64,148    GBP 46,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (1,857 )
USD 205,681    GBP 144,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (944 )
USD 715,243    GBP 490,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      12,142  
      Goldman Sachs Bank      
USD 347,978    HKD 2,700,000    USA    4/15/09      (413 )
USD 39,448    JPY 3,870,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      343  
USD 613,711    NOK 4,436,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (45,912 )
USD 47,601    SEK 380,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,374  
USD 53,016    SEK 445,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (1,119 )
USD 613,255    EUR 476,500    Citibank, N.A.    5/20/09      (19,828 )
GBP 34,000    USD 49,097    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (300 )
HKD 492,000    USD 63,516    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (8 )
SEK 230,000    USD 27,225    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      768  
USD 74,075    AUD 108,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (666 )
USD 56,001    EUR 43,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (1,133 )
USD 828,520    GBP 592,500    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (21,832 )
USD 612,738    GBP 434,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (10,136 )
USD 335,286    JPY 32,869,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      2,853  
USD 59,872    ZAR 576,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (13 )
USD 33,042    ZAR 316,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      188  
USD 20,828    ZAR 204,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (381 )
                 
  Total             $ (149,401 )
                 

 

Financial futures contracts purchased as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Contracts

   Issue   Exchange    Expiration
Date
   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

200

   DJIA Index   Chicago    June 2009    $ 14,960,000    $ 892,000  

8

   Euro-Bund   Chicago    June 2009    $ 1,322,545      (1,275 )

17

   United Kingdom Gilt   London    June 2009    $ 3,005,381      49,402  

130

   S&P 500 Index   Chicago    June 2009    $ 25,831,000      1,508,000  

65

   U.S. Treasury Bonds   Chicago    June 2009    $ 8,430,703      220,433  

12

   U.S. Treasury Notes

(2 Year)

  Chicago    June 2009    $ 2,614,688      6,382  

194

   U.S. Treasury Notes

(5 Year)

  Chicago    June 2009    $ 23,040,531      244,561  
                   

Total

              $ 2,919,503  
                   

 

Financial futures contracts sold as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Contracts

   Issue   Exchange    Expiration
Date
   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Depreciation
 

57

   U.S. Treasury Notes

(10 Year)

  Chicago    June 2009    $ 6,541,875    $ (7,130 )

41

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    June 2009    $ 10,137,250      (99,162 )

9

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    September 2009    $ 2,225,363      (5,950 )

9

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    December 2009    $ 2,221,988      (6,175 )

6

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    March 2010    $ 1,480,500      (5,540 )

7

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    June 2010    $ 1,724,538      (7,945 )

7

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    September 2010    $ 1,721,738      (9,207 )

7

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    December 2010    $ 1,718,150      (9,669 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    March 2011    $ 735,225      (4,648 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    June 2011    $ 733,763      (4,685 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    September 2011    $ 732,300      (4,493 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    December 2011    $ 730,688      (4,043 )
                   

Total

              $ (168,647 )
                   

 

Interest rate swaps outstanding as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Fixed
Rate

   Floating Rate    Counterparty    Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

5.50%

   3-month LIBOR    Bank of America, N.A.    July 2009    USD  7,500    $ 161,750  

4.05%

   3-month LIBOR    Barclays Bank, Plc    December 2009    USD 2,600      79,162  

1.76%

   3-month LIBOR    Deutsche Bank AG    March 2011    USD 3,600      (26,675 )

5.11%

   3-month LIBOR    UBS AG    November 2011    USD 9,100      964,213  

1.81%

   3-month LIBOR    Citibank, N.A.    March 2012    USD  10,000      (36,725 )

3.77%

   3-month LIBOR    Bank of America, N.A.    January 2013    USD 4,100      268,525  

4.27%

   3-month LIBOR    Deutsche Bank AG    July 2013    USD 1,600      146,238  

2.53%

   3-month LIBOR    Citibank, N.A.    March 2014    USD 3,500      (54,160 )

2.56%

   3-month LIBOR    Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    March 2014    USD 3,500      (58,212 )

4.96%

   3-month LIBOR    UBS AG    March 2015    USD 5,000      (719,220 )

4.50%

   3-month LIBOR    JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    May 2015    USD 1,700      (226,511 )

4.39%

   3-month LIBOR    Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    July 2015    USD 6,300      (760,870 )

 

16

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

Fixed
Rate

   Floating Rate    Counterparty    Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

5.30%

   3-month LIBOR    UBS AG    February 2017    USD 6,700    $ 1,285,186  

2.21%

   3-month LIBOR    Goldman Sachs Bank USA    December 2018    USD 2,500      (124,734 )

2.30%

   3-month LIBOR    Citibank, N.A.    December 2018    USD 2,200      (93,235 )

2.86%

   3-month LIBOR    Goldman Sachs Bank USA    January 2019    USD 1,300      2,895  

2.71%

   3-month LIBOR    Bank of America, N.A.    January 2019    USD 2,400      (26,633 )

2.90%

   3-month LIBOR    Deutsche Bank AG    February 2019    USD 2,600      15,096  

3.22%

   3-month LIBOR    Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    March 2019    USD 1,500      48,442  

3.06%

   3-month LIBOR    Credit Suisse International    March 2019    USD 2,100      37,054  

2.82%

   3-month LIBOR    Barclays Bank, Plc    March 2019    USD 1,000      (4,261 )

5.41%

   3-month LIBOR    JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    August 2022    USD  1,130      295,097  

3.50%

   3-month LIBOR    Barclays Bank, Plc    March 2040    USD 500      (13,193 )
                    

Total

               $ 1,159,229  
                    

 

Credit default swaps on single-name issues - buy protection outstanding as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Issuer

   Pay
Fixed
Rate
    Counterparty    Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)1
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Centex Corp.

   6.92 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2010    265    $ (10,497 )

Knight, Inc.

   1.80 %   Credit Suisse International    January 2011    365      (1,925 )

Viacom, Inc.

   2.40 %   Deutsche Bank AG    June 2011    525      4,581  

KB Home

   4.90 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    September 2011    460      456  

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc.

   2.90 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2011    360      (7,306 )

United Rentals N.A., Inc.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2012    500      953  

PolyOne Corp.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2012    140      (1,105 )

Ryland Group, Inc.

   4.51 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2012    165      (6,533 )

Macy’s, Inc.

   7.50 %   Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    June 2012    250      (1,624 )

D.R. Horton, Inc.

   5.04 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2013    525      (19,009 )

Expedia, Inc.

   5.00 %   Citibank, N.A.    September 2013    380      (3,345 )

Expedia, Inc.

   5.18 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    September 2013    175      (2,707 )

Centex Corp.

   4.40 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2013    330      (3,195 )

Tyson Foods, Inc.

   4.10 %   Barclays Bank, Plc    March 2014    445      (23,211 )

Hertz Global Holdings, Inc.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    March 2014    165      (16,305 )

Toll Brothers, Inc.

   2.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2014    155      (1,769 )

Idearc, Inc.

   5.00 %   Barclays Bank, Plc    June 2014    305      9,913  

D.R. Horton, Inc.

   5.07 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    September 2014    155      (8,839 )

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    17


Summary Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

 

Issuer

   Pay
Fixed
Rate
    Counterparty    Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)1
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Huntsman Corp.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    December 2014    175    $ (3,551 )

Energy Future Holdings Corp.

   5.00 %   Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    December 2014    680      (30,119 )

Huntsman Corp.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    March 2015    85      5,953  

Pulte Homes, Inc.

   3.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2015    185      (5,588 )

Lennar Corp.

   5.86 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2015    250      (11,740 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   Barclays Bank, Plc    December 2015    320      (11,244 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   Credit Suisse International    December 2015    130      (4,568 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    December 2015    85      (2,562 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2015    165      (5,797 )

Sabre Holdings Corp.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2016    690      (40,827 )
                   

Total

              $ (201,510 )
                   

 

 

Credit default swaps on traded indexes - sold protection outstanding as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Index

   Receive
Fixed
Rate
    Counterparty    Credit
Rating2
   Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)1
   Unrealized
Depreciation
 

Commercial Mortgage-Backed North America Index Series 3

   0.08 %   Credit Suisse International    AAA    December 2049    USD  1,200    $ (279,947 )

 

1 The maximum potential amount the Fund may pay should a negative credit event take place under the terms of the agreement.

 

2 Using Standard & Poor’s weighted average ratings of the underlying securities in the index.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
    Other Financial
Instruments **
 
     Assets    Liabilities     Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 190,406,812    $ —       $ 2,920,778    $ (169,922 )

Level 2

     293,664,055      (42,484,794 )     3,427,700      (4,913,635 )

Level 3

     324,171      —         —        (279,947 )
                              

Total

   $ 484,395,038    $ (42,484,794 )   $ 6,348,478    $ (5,363,504 )
                              

 

18

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Summary Schedule of Investments (concluded)   

 

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for the period ended March 31, 2009:

 

     Investments
in Securities
    Other Financial
Instruments **
 
     Assets     Liabilities  

Balance, as of September 30, 2008

   $ 310,093     $ (818 )

Accrued discounts/premiums

     2,433       —    

Realized loss

     (221 )     —    

Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation***

     11,606       (279,129 )

Net sales

     (18,297 )     —    

Net transfers in of Level 3

     18,557       —    
                

Balance, as of March 31, 2009

   $ 324,171     $ (279,947 )
                

 

** Other financial instruments are futures, swaps, foreign currency exchange contracts and options. Futures, swaps and foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument and options written are shown at market value.
*** Included in the related net change in appreciation/depreciation on the Statement of Operations.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

       
   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    19


Statement of Assets and Liabilities   

March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

 

Assets

  

Investments at value - unaffiliated (including securities loaned of $1,554,796) (cost - $524,646,922)

   $ 460,560,499  

Investments at value - affiliated (cost - $23,834,539)

     23,834,539  

Investment in swap contracts

     1,287,999  

Cash collateral pledged for futures contracts

     6,107,000  

Cash

     207,149  

Foreign currency at value (cost - $245,472)

     244,686  

Unrealized appreciation on foreign currency exchange contracts

     102,186  

Unrealized appreciation on swaps

     3,325,514  

Investments sold receivable

     83,866,151  

Interest receivable

     4,132,934  

Dividends and reclaims receivable

     588,009  

Dividends receivable - affiliated

     11,628  

Receivable from advisor

     4,475  

Capital shares sold receivable

     469,202  

Securities lending income receivable - affiliated

     4,652  

Principal paydown receivable

     66,567  

Margin variation receivable

     606,376  

Prepaid expenses

     69,378  
        

Total assets

     585,488,944  
        

Liabilities

  

Investments purchased payable

     89,941,164  

TBA sale commitments at value (proceeds received $42,210,978)

     42,484,794  

Payable for dollar rolls

     6,167,557  

Unrealized depreciation on swaps

     2,647,742  

Options written at value (premiums received $1,551,320)

     2,294,253  

Collateral at value - securities loaned

     1,590,400  

Capital shares redeemed payable

     964,731  

Other affiliates payable

     346,050  

Unrealized depreciation on foreign currency exchange contracts

     251,587  

Investment advisory fees payable

     197,813  

Service and distribution fees payable

     172,734  

Interest payable

     72,959  

Officer’s and Trustees’ fees payable

     8,018  

Other accrued expenses payable

     117,383  
        

Total liabilities

     147,257,185  
        

Net Assets

   $ 438,231,759  
        
Net Assets Consist of
Paid-in capital
   $ 580,154,536  

Undistributed net investment income

     394,904  

Accumulated net realized loss

     (79,811,776 )

Net unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (62,505,905 )
        

Net Assets

   $ 438,231,759  
        

Net Asset Value

  

Institutional - Based on net assets of $23,270,889 and 2,240,878 shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

   $ 10.38  
        

Service - Based on net assets of $1,198,784 and 115,799 shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

   $ 10.35  
        

Investor A - Based on net assets of $290,229,109 and 28,074,630 shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value.

   $ 10.34  
        

Investor B - Based on net assets of $63,421,088 and 6,222,666 shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

   $ 10.19  
        

Investor C - Based on net assets of $60,111,889 and 5,909,627 shares outstanding, unlimited number of shares authorized, $0.001 par value

   $ 10.17  
        

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Statement of Operations   

 

Six Months Ended March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)

      

Investment Income

  

Interest

   $ 5,579,291  

Dividends and reclaims

     2,440,070  

Foreign taxes withheld

     (50,579 )

Securities lending - affiliated

     15,713  

Interest and dividends - affiliated

     50,487  
        

Total investment income

     8,034,982  
        

Expenses

  

Investment advisory

     1,310,320  

Service and distribution - class specific

     1,080,152  

Transfer agent - class specific

     512,778  

Custodian

     198,517  

Administration

     178,418  

Administration - class specific

     59,643  

Printing

     49,642  

Professional

     47,386  

Officer and Trustees

     10,462  

Registration

     23,150  

Miscellaneous

     66,477  
        

Total expenses excluding interest expense

     3,536,945  

Interest expense

     7,004  
        

Total expenses

     3,543,949  

Less investment advisory waived

     (4,102 )

Less administration fees waived - class specific

     (12,856 )

Less transfer agent fees waived - class specific

     (8,433 )

Less transfer agent fees reimbursed - class specific

     (12,638 )

Less fees paid indirectly

     (1,698 )
        

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     3,504,222  
        

Net investment income

     4,530,760  
        

Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss)

  

Net realized gain (loss) from:

  

Investments

     (64,712,680 )

Options written

     54,794  

Futures and swaps

     (5,527,988 )

Foreign currency transactions

     (720,235 )
        
     (70,906,109 )
        

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on:

  

Investments

     (41,689,466 )

TBA sale commitments

     (356,123 )

Options written

     (661,334 )

Futures and swaps

     3,502,930  

Foreign currency transactions and other

     31,979  
        
     (39,172,014 )
        

Total realized and unrealized loss

     (110,078,123 )
        

Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

   $ (105,547,363 )
        

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    21


Statements of Changes in Net Assets   

 

Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets:

   Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
    Year Ended
September 30,
2008
 

Operations

    

Net investment income

   $ 4,530,760     $ 11,490,444  

Net realized gain (loss)

     (70,906,109 )     17,204,510  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation

     (39,172,014 )     (145,090,790 )
                

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

     (105,547,363 )     (116,395,836 )
                

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From

    

Net investment income:

    

Institutional

     (176,037 )     (671,005 )

Service

     (9,652 )     (43,165 )

Investor A

     (2,229,464 )     (9,616,809 )

Investor B

     (340,963 )     (1,647,905 )

Investor C

     (299,920 )     (1,059,761 )

Net realized gain:

    

Institutional

     (406,332 )     (2,001,331 )

Service

     (21,686 )     (175,568 )

Investor A

     (5,466,565 )     (38,125,135 )

Investor B

     (1,298,809 )     (11,393,688 )

Investor C

     (1,188,380 )     (6,488,172 )
                

Decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and distributions to shareholders

     (11,437,808 )     (71,222,539 )
                

Capital Share Transactions

    

Net decrease in net assets derived from capital share transactions

     (26,763,686 )     (11,398,230 )
                

Net Assets

    

Total decrease in net assets

     (143,748,857 )     (199,016,605 )

Beginning of period

     581,980,616       780,997,221  
                

End of period

   $ 438,231,759     $ 581,980,616  
                

End of period undistributed (distributions in excess of) net investment income

   $ 394,904     $ (1,079,820 )
                

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

22

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights   

 

    Institutional*  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
   

 

Year Ended September 30,

    Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Period
April 1, 2004 to
February 28, 2005
   

 

Year Ended March 31,

 
      2008     2007     2006         2004     20031  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.96     $ 17.07     $ 15.53     $ 15.51     $ 14.99     $ 14.91     $ 11.38     $ 14.17  
                                                               

Net investment income

    0.14 2     0.33 2     0.33 2     0.31 2     0.17 2     0.20       0.24       0.28  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.44 )     (2.76 )     2.08       0.66       0.52       0.82       3.54       (2.68 )
                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.30 )     (2.43 )     2.41       0.97       0.69       1.02       3.78       (2.40 )
                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

               

Net investment income

    (0.09 )     (0.38 )     (0.24 )     (0.30 )     (0.17 )     (0.40 )     (0.25 )     (0.33 )

Net realized gain

    (0.19 )     (1.30 )     (0.63 )     (0.65 )     —         (0.54 )     —         (0.06 )
                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.28 )     (1.68 )     (0.87 )     (0.95 )     (0.17 )     (0.94 )     (0.25 )     (0.39 )
                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     —         —         —    
                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.38     $ 12.96     $ 17.07     $ 15.53     $ 15.51     $ 14.99     $ 14.91     $ 11.38  
                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value

    (17.84 )%4     (15.81 )%     16.04 %5     6.53 %5     4.66 %4,5     7.17 %4     33.46 %     (17.12 )%
                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

               

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    0.86 %6     0.89 %7     0.86 %     0.83 %     0.86 %6     1.03 %6     1.15 %     1.12 %
                                                               

Total expenses

    0.97 %6     0.94 %     0.93 %     0.91 %     1.11 %6     1.05 %6     1.15 %     1.13 %
                                                               

Net investment income

    2.51 %6     2.20 %     2.03 %     2.04 %     1.90 %6     1.71 %6     1.74 %     2.21 %
                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 23,271     $ 23,083     $ 34,720     $ 32,545     $ 29,752     $ 31,328     $ 21,989     $ 17,992  
                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    159 %8     391 %9     93 %     136 %     90 %     101 %     216 %     181 %
                                                               

 

* The performance prior to January 31, 2005 set forth in this table is the financial data of the State Street Research Asset Allocation Fund, a series of a predecessor trust, the State Street Research Income Trust. BlackRock Funds acquired all of the assets and certain stated liabilities of State Street Research Asset Allocation Fund on January 28, 2005. The net asset values and other per share information listed have been restated to reflect the conversion ratios of 0.71889936, 0.71991517, 0.72321182 and 0.72727901 for Institutional, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

 

1 Audited by other auditors.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 The Portfolio incurred interest expense during the year. If interest expense had not been incurred, the ratio would have been 0.85%, 1.07% and 1.20% for Institutional, Service and Investor A shares, respectively.

 

8 Includes mortgage dollar roll transactions; excluding these transactions the portfolio turnover would have been 86%.

 

9 Includes TBA transactions, excluding these transactions, the portfolio turnover would have been 121%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    23


Financial Highlights (continued)   

 

    Service  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
   

 

Year Ended September 30,

    Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Period
January 28, 2005to
February 28, 2005
 
      2008     2007     2006      

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.93     $ 17.03     $ 15.51     $ 15.49     $ 14.97     $ 14.63  
                                               

Net investment income

    0.12 2     0.30 2     0.29 2     0.27 2     0.14 2     0.01  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.43 )     (2.76 )     2.08       0.65       0.52       0.33  
                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.31 )     (2.46 )     2.37       0.92       0.66       0.34  
                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

           

Net investment income

    (0.08 )     (0.34 )     (0.22 )     (0.25 )     (0.14 )     —    

Net realized gain

    (0.19 )     (1.30 )     (0.63 )     (0.65 )     —         —    
                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.27 )     (1.64 )     (0.85 )     (0.90 )     (0.14 )     —    
                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     —    
                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.35     $ 12.93     $ 17.03     $ 15.51     $ 15.49     $ 14.97  
                                               

Total Investment Return

           

Based on net asset value

    (17.94 )%4     (16.00 )%     15.74 %5     6.24 %5     4.44 %4,5     2.32 %4
                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.13 %6     1.11 %7     1.10 %     1.11 %     1.16 %6     1.16 %6
                                               

Total expenses

    1.22 %6     1.11 %     1.31 %     1.17 %     1.36 %6     1.26 %6
                                               

Net investment income (loss)

    2.25 %6     1.96 %     1.80 %     1.76 %     1.60 %6     (0.17 )%6
                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 1,199     $ 1,552     $ 2,325     $ 2,201     $ 2,171     $ 2,171  
                                               

Portfolio turnover

    159 %8     391 %9     93 %     136 %     90 %     101 %
                                               

 

    Investor A*  
    Six Months
Ended

March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
   

 

Year Ended September 30,

    Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Period
April 1, 2004 to
February 28, 2005
   

 

Year Ended March 31,

 
      2008     2007     2006         2004     200310  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.92     $ 17.01     $ 15.50     $ 15.48     $ 14.95     $ 14.89     $ 11.36     $ 14.15  
                                                               

Net investment income

    0.11 2     0.28 2     0.27 2     0.25 2     0.13 2     0.18       0.19       0.24  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.42 )     (2.75 )     2.07       0.66       0.53       0.80       3.55       (2.68 )
                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.31 )     (2.47 )     2.34       0.91       0.66       0.98       3.74       (2.44 )
                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

               

Net investment income

    (0.08 )     (0.32 )     (0.20 )     (0.24 )     (0.13 )     (0.38 )     (0.21 )     (0.29 )

Net realized gain

    (0.19 )     (1.30 )     (0.63 )     (0.65 )     —         (0.54 )     —         (0.06 )
                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.27 )     (1.62 )     (0.83 )     (0.89 )     (0.13 )     (0.92 )     (0.21 )     (0.35 )
                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     —         —         —    
                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.34     $ 12.92     $ 17.01     $ 15.50     $ 15.48     $ 14.95     $ 14.89     $ 11.36  
                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value11

    (17.99 )%4     (16.05 )%     15.58 %5     6.12 %5     4.44 %4,5     6.78 %4     32.94 %     (17.37 )%
                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    1.27 %6     1.24 %7     1.21 %     1.23 %     1.25 %6     1.24 %6     1.45 %     1.42 %
                                                               

Total expenses

    1.28 %6     1.24 %     1.21 %     1.36 %     1.46 %6     1.32 %6     1.45 %     1.43 %
                                                               

Net investment income

    2.10 %6     1.84 %     1.68 %     1.63 %     1.51 %6     1.55 %6     1.43 %     1.92 %
                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 290,229     $ 390,051     $ 506,537     $ 482,284     $ 491,557     $ 526,929     $ 357,100     $ 252,069  
                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    159 %8     391 %9     93 %     136 %     90 %     101 %     216 %     181 %
                                                               

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

24

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Financial Highlights (continued)   

 

    Investor B*  
    Six Months
Ended
March 31, 2009
(Unaudited)
   

 

Year Ended September 30,

    Period
March 1, 2005 to
September 30, 2005
    Period
April 1, 2004 to
February 28, 2005
   

 

Year Ended March 31,

 
      2008     2007     2006         2004     200310  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.75     $ 16.83     $ 15.35     $ 15.34     $ 14.81     $ 14.74     $ 11.26     $ 14.01  
                                                               

Net investment income

    0.07 2     0.16 2     0.14 2     0.13 2     0.07 2     0.08       0.10       0.15  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

    (2.39 )     (2.75 )     2.07       0.65       0.51       0.81       3.49       (2.63 )
                                                               

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

    (2.32 )     (2.59 )     2.21       0.78       0.58       0.89       3.59       (2.48 )
                                                               

Dividends and distributions from:

               

Net investment income

    (0.05 )     (0.19 )     (0.10 )     (0.12 )     (0.05 )     (0.28 )     (0.11 )     (0.21 )

Net realized gain

    (0.19 )     (1.30 )     (0.63 )     (0.65 )     —         (0.54 )     —         (0.06 )
                                                               

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.24 )     (1.49 )     (0.73 )     (0.77 )     (0.05 )     (0.82 )     (0.11 )     (0.27 )
                                                               

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

    —         —         0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     —         —         —    
                                                               

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.19     $ 12.75     $ 16.83     $ 15.35     $ 15.34     $ 14.81     $ 14.74     $ 11.26  
                                                               

Total Investment Return

 

Based on net asset value11

    (18.29 )%4     (16.89 )%     14.81 %5     5.30 %5     3.94 %4,5     6.20 %4     32.03 %     (17.91 )%
                                                               

Ratios to Average Net Assets

 

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

    2.07 %6     2.02 %12     2.01 %     2.00 %     2.01 %6     2.04 %6     2.15 %     2.12 %
                                                               

Total expenses

    2.10 %6     2.02 %     2.01 %     2.03 %     2.11 %6     2.04 %6     2.15 %     2.13 %
                                                               

Net investment income

    1.30 %6     1.06 %     0.89 %     0.86 %     0.75 %6     0.73 %6     0.72 %     1.22 %
                                                               

Supplemental Data

 

Net assets, end of period (000)

  $ 63,421     $ 97,710     $ 152,820     $ 175,826     $ 181,583     $ 187,689     $ 133,083     $ 75,963  
                                                               

Portfolio turnover

    159 %8     391 %9     93 %     136 %     90 %     101 %     216 %     181 %
                                                               

 

* The performance prior to January 31, 2005 set forth in this table is the financial data of the State Street Research Asset Allocation Fund, a series of a predecessor trust, the State Street Research Income Trust. BlackRock Funds acquired all of the assets and certain stated liabilities of State Street Research Asset Allocation Fund on January 28, 2005. The net asset values and other per share information listed have been restated to reflect the conversion ratios of 0.71889936, 0.71991517, 0.72321182 and 0.72727901 for Institutional, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

 

1 Commencement of operations.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Aggregate total investment return.

 

5 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

6 Annualized.

 

7 The Portfolio incurred interest expense during the year. If interest expense had not been incurred, the ratio would have been 0.85%, 1.07% and 1.20% for Institutional, Service and Investor A shares, respectively.

 

8 Includes mortgage dollar roll transactions; excluding these transactions the portfolio turnover would have been 86%.

 

9 Includes TBA transactions, excluding these transactions, the portfolio turnover would have been 121%.

 

10 Audited by other auditors.

 

11 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

12 The Portfolio incurred interest expense during the year. If interest expense had not been incurred, the ratio would have been 1.97% and 1.90% for Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    25


Financial Highlights (concluded)   

 

     Investor C*  
    

Six Months

Ended

March 31, 2009

    Year Ended September 30,    

Period

March 1, 2005 to

   

Period

April 1, 2004 to

    Year Ended March 31,  
     (Unaudited)     2008     2007     2006     September 30, 2005     February 28, 2005     2004     20031  

Per Share Operating Performance

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

   $ 12.73     $ 16.78     $ 15.34     $ 15.33     $ 14.81     $ 14.74     $ 11.25     $ 14.01  
                                                                

Net investment income

     0.08 2     0.17 2     0.15 2     0.15 2     0.06 2     0.08       0.10       0.15  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)

     (2.40 )     (2.71 )     2.04       0.65       0.52       0.81       3.50       (2.65 )
                                                                

Net increase (decrease) from investment operations

     (2.32 )     (2.54 )     2.19       0.80       0.58       0.89       3.60       (2.50 )
                                                                

Dividends and distributions from:

                

Net investment income

     (0.05 )     (0.21 )     (0.12 )     (0.14 )     (0.06 )     (0.28 )     (0.11 )     (0.21 )

Net realized gain

     (0.19 )     (1.30 )     (0.63 )     (0.65 )     —         (0.54 )     —         (0.05 )
                                                                

Total dividends and distributions

     (0.24 )     (1.51 )     (0.75 )     (0.79 )     (0.06 )     (0.82 )     (0.11 )     (0.26 )
                                                                

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital

     —         —         0.00 3     0.00 3     0.00 3     —         —         —    
                                                                

Net asset value, end of period

   $ 10.17     $ 12.73     $ 16.78     $ 15.34     $ 15.33     $ 14.81     $ 14.74     $ 11.25  
                                                                

Total Investment Return

                

Based on net asset value4

     (18.28 )%5     (16.66 )%     14.68 %6     5.42 %6     3.90 %5,6     6.20 %5     32.14 %     (17.96 )%
                                                                

Ratios to Average Net Assets

                

Total expenses after waivers, reimbursement and fees paid indirectly

     1.97 %7     1.94 %8     1.94 %     1.91 %     2.00 %7     2.04 %7     2.15 %     2.12 %
                                                                

Total expenses

     1.97 %7     1.94 %     1.95 %     1.94 %     2.11 %7     2.04 %7     2.15 %     2.13 %
                                                                

Net investment income

     1.39 %7     1.14 %     0.96 %     0.97 %     0.75 %7     0.76 %7     0.72 %     1.21 %
                                                                

Supplemental Data

                

Net assets, end of period (000)

   $ 60,112     $ 69,584     $ 84,596     $ 80,286     $ 67,371     $ 65,357     $ 42,262     $ 19,079  
                                                                

Portfolio turnover

     159 %9     391 %10     93 %     136 %     90 %     101 %     216 %     181 %
                                                                

 

* The performance prior to January 31, 2005 set forth in this table is the financial data of the State Street Research Asset Allocation Fund, a series of a predecessor trust, the State Street Research Income Trust. BlackRock Funds acquired all of the assets and certain stated liabilities of State Street Research Asset Allocation Fund on January 28, 2005. The net asset values and other per share information listed have been restated to reflect the conversion ratios of 0.71889936, 0.71991517, 0.72321182 and 0.72727901 for Institutional, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

 

1 Audited by other auditors.

 

2 Based on average shares outstanding.

 

3 Less than $0.01 per share.

 

4 Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.

 

5 Aggregate total investment return.

 

6 Redemption fee of 2.00% received by the Portfolio is reflected in total return calculations. There was no impact to the return.

 

7 Annualized.

 

8 The Portfolio incurred interest expense during the year. If interest expense had not been incurred, the ratio would have been 1.97% and 1.90% for Investor B and Investor C shares, respectively.

 

9 Includes mortgage dollar roll transactions; excluding these transactions the portfolio turnover would have been 86%.

 

10 Includes TBA transactions, excluding these transactions, the portfolio turnover would have been 121%.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

26

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (Unaudited)   

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies:

BlackRock FundsSM (the “Fund”), a Massachusetts business trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. As of March 31, 2009, the Fund had 27 registered portfolios. These financial statements relate to the Fund’s Asset Allocation Portfolio (the “Portfolio”). The Portfolio’s financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, which may require the use of management accruals and estimates. Actual results may differ from these estimates. The Portfolio offers multiple classes of shares. Institutional Shares are sold without a sales charge and only to certain eligible investors. Service Shares are sold without a sales charge. Investor A Shares are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares of Investor B and Investor C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions, except that the Service, Investor A, Investor B and Investor C Shares may bear certain expenses related to the service and/ or distribution of such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to matters relating to its service and distribution expenditures (except that Investor B shareholders may vote on material changes to the Investor A distribution plan).

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolio:

Valuation of Investments: Equity investments traded on a recognized securities exchange or the NASDAQ Global Market System are valued at the last reported sale price that day or the NASDAQ official closing price, if applicable. For equity investments traded on more than one exchange, the last reported sale price on the exchange where the stock is primarily traded is used. Equity investments traded on a recognized exchange for which there were no sales on that day are valued at the last available bid price. If no bid price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the security. The Portfolio values its bond investments on the basis of last available bid price or current market quotations provided by dealers or pricing services selected under the supervision of the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”). In determining the value of a particular investment, pricing services may use certain information with respect to transactions in such investments, quotations from dealers, pricing matrixes, market transactions in comparable investments and information with respect to various relationships observed in the market between investments and calculated yield measures based on valuation technology commonly employed in the market for such investments. The fair value of asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities are 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. Financial futures contracts traded on exchanges are valued at their last sale price. Swap agreements are valued by utilizing quotes received daily by the Portfolio’s pricing service or through brokers which are derived using daily swap curves and trades of underlying securities.

To-be-announced (“TBA”) commitments are valued at the current market value of the underlying securities. Short-term securities with maturities less than 60 days are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments in investment companies are valued at net asset value each business day. The Portfolio values its investment in the BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series at fair value, which is ordinarily based on its pro rata ownership in the net assets of the underlying fund.

Exchange-traded options are valued at the mean between the last bid and ask prices at the close of the options market in which the options trade. An exchange-traded option for which there is no mean price is valued at the last bid (long positions) or ask (short positions) price. If no bid or ask price is available, the prior day’s price will be used, unless it is determined that such prior day’s price no longer reflects the fair value of the option. Over-the-counter options and swaptions are valued by an independent pricing service using a mathematical model which incorporates a number of market data factors, such as the trades and prices of the underlying securities.

In the event that application of these methods of valuation results in a price for an investment which is deemed not to be representative of the market value of such investment, the investment will be valued by a method approved by the Board as reflecting fair value (“Fair Value Assets”). When determining the price for Fair Value Assets, the investment advisor and/or sub-advisor seeks to determine the price that the Portfolio might reasonably expect to receive from the current sale of that asset in an arm’s-length transaction. Fair value determinations shall be based upon all available factors that the investment advisor and/or sub-advisor deems relevant. The pricing of all Fair Value Assets is subsequently reported to the Board or a committee thereof.

Generally, trading in foreign securities is substantially completed each day at various times prior to the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). The values of such securities used in computing the net assets of the Portfolio are determined as of such times. Foreign currency exchange rates will be determined as of the close of business on the NYSE. Occasionally, events affecting the values of such securities and such exchange rates may occur between the times at which they are determined and the close of business on the NYSE that may not be reflected in the computation of the Portfolio’s net assets. If events (for example, a company announcement, market volatility or a natural disaster) occur during such periods that are expected to materially affect the value of such securities, those securities may be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith by the Board or by the investment advisor using a pricing service and/or procedures approved by the Board. Foreign currency exchange contracts and forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. Interpolated values are derived when the settlement date of the contract is an interim date for which quotations are not available.

Derivative Financial Instruments: The Portfolio may engage in various portfolio investment strategies to both increase the return of the Portfolio and to hedge, or protect, its exposure to interest rate movements and

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    27


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

movements in the securities markets. Losses may arise if the value of the contract decreases due to an unfavorable change in the price of the underlying security, or if the counterparty does not perform under the contract.

 

 

Financial Futures Contracts – The Portfolio may purchase or sell financial or index futures contracts and options on financial futures contracts for investment purposes or to manage its interest rate risk. Futures are contracts for delayed delivery of securities at a specific future date and at a specific price or yield. Pursuant to the contract, the Portfolio agrees to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in the value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are known as margin variation and are recognized by the Portfolio as unrealized gains or losses. When the contract is closed, the Portfolio records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of futures transactions involves the risk of an imperfect correlation in the movements in the price of futures contracts, interest rates and the underlying assets, and the possible inability of counterparties to meet the terms of their contracts.

 

 

Forward Currency Contracts – A forward currency contract is an agreement between two parties to buy and sell a currency at a set exchange rate on a future date. The Portfolio may enter into forward currency contracts as a hedge against either specific transactions or portfolio positions. Forward currency contracts, when used by the Portfolio, help to manage the overall exposure to the foreign currency backing some of the investments held by the Portfolio. The contract is marked-to-market daily and the change in market value is recorded by the Portfolio as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Portfolio records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value at the time it was opened and the value at the time it was closed. The use of forward currency contracts involves the risk that counterparties may not meet the terms of the agreement and market risk of unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the US dollar.

 

 

Options – The Portfolio may purchase and write call and put options. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right (but not the obligation) to buy, and obligates the seller to sell (when the option is exercised), the underlying position at the exercise price at any time or at a specified time during the option period. A put option gives the holder the right to sell and obligates the writer to buy the underlying position at the exercise price at any time or at a specified time during the option period.

When the Portfolio purchase (writes) an option, an amount equal to the premium paid (received) by the Portfolio is reflected as an asset and an equivalent liability. The amount of the asset (liability) is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current market value of the option written. When a security is purchased or sold through an exercise of an option, the related premium paid (or received) is added to (or deducted from) the basis of the security acquired or deducted from (or added to) the proceeds of the security sold. When an option expires (or the Portfolio enters into a closing transaction), the Portfolio realizes a gain or loss on the option to the extent of the premiums received or paid (or gain or loss to the extent the cost of the closing transaction exceeds the premium received or paid). When the Portfolio writes a call option, such option is “covered”, meaning that the Portfolio holds the underlying security subject to being called by the option counterparty, or cash in an amount sufficient to cover the obligation. When the Portfolio writes a put option, such option is covered by cash in an amount sufficient to cover the obligation.

In purchasing and writing options, the Portfolio bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the underlying security or index. Exercise of a written option could result in the Portfolio purchasing a security at a price different from the current market value. The Portfolio may executed transactions in both listed and over-the-counter options. Transactions in certain over-the-counter options may expose the Portfolio to the risk of default by the counterparty to the transaction.

 

 

Swaps – The Portfolio may enter into swap agreements, in which the Portfolio and a counterparty agree to make periodic net payments on a specified notional amount. These periodic payments received or made by the Portfolio are recorded in the accompanying Statement of Operations as realized gains or losses, respectively. Swaps are marked-to-market daily and changes in value are recorded as unrealized appreciation (depreciation). When the swap is terminated, the Portfolio will record a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the proceeds from (or cost of) the closing transaction and the Portfolio’s basis in the contract, if any.

Swap transactions involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and market risk in excess of the amounts recognized on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Such risks involve the possibility that there will be no liquid market for these agreements, that the counterparty to the agreements may default on its obligation to perform or disagree as to the meaning of the contractual terms in the agreements, and that there may be unfavorable changes in interest rates and/or market values associated with these transactions.

Interest Rate Swaps – The Portfolio may enter into interest rate swaps for investment purposes or to manage its interest rate risk. Interest rate swaps are agreements in which one party pays a floating rate of interest on a notional principal amount and receives a fixed rate of interest on the same notional principal amount for a specified period of time. Alternatively, a party may pay a fixed rate and receive a floating rate. In more complex swaps, the notional principal amount may decline (or amortize) over time.

Credit Default Swaps – The Portfolio may enter into credit default swaps for investment purposes or to manage its credit risk. The Portfolio enters into credit default agreements to provide a measure of protection against the default of an issuer (as buyer protection) and/or gain credit exposure to an issuer to which it is not otherwise

 

28

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

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Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

exposed (as seller of protection). Credit default swaps are agreements in which one party pays fixed periodic payments to a counterparty in consideration for a guarantee from the counterparty to make a specific payment should a negative credit event take place (e.g., bankruptcy, failure to pay, obligation accelerators, repudiation, moratorium, or restructuring). The Portfolio may either buy or sell (write) credit default swaps. As a buyer, the Portfolio will either receive from the seller an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and deliver the referenced security or underlying securities comprising of an index or receive a net settlement of cash equal to the notional amount of the swap less the recovery value of the security or underlying securities comprising of an index. As a seller (writer), the Portfolio will either pay the buyer an amount equal to the notional amount of the swap and take delivery of the referenced security or underlying securities comprising of an index or pay a net settlement of cash equal to the notional amount of the sweep less the recovery value of the security or underlying securities comprising of an index. In the event of default by the counterparty, the Portfolio may recover amounts paid under the agreement either partially or in total by offsetting any payables and/or receivables with collateral held or pledged.

Swaptions – Swap options (swaptions) are similar to options on securities except that instead of selling or purchasing the right to buy or sell a security, the writer or purchaser of the swap option is granting or buying the right to enter into a previously agreed upon interest rate swap agreement at any time before the expiration of the option.

Foreign Currency Transactions: Foreign currency amounts are translated into United States dollars on the following basis: (i) market value of investment securities, assets and liabilities at the current rate of exchange; and (ii) purchases and sales of investment securities, income and expenses at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions.

The Portfolio reports foreign currency related transactions as components of realized gains for financial reporting purposes, whereas such components are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

Asset-Backed and Mortgage-Backed Securities: The Portfolio may invest in asset-backed securities. Asset-backed securities are generally issued as pass-through certificates, which represent undivided fractional ownership interests in an underlying pool of assets, or as debt instruments, which are also known as collateralized obligations, and are generally issued as the debt of a special purpose entity organized solely for the purpose of owning such assets and issuing such debt. Asset-backed securities are often backed by a pool of assets representing the obligations of a number of different parties. The yield characteristics of certain asset-backed securities may differ from traditional debt securities. One such major difference is that all or a principal part of the obligations may be prepaid at any time because the underlying assets (i.e., loans) may be prepaid at any time. As a result, a decrease in interest rates in the market may result in increases in the level of prepayments as borrowers, particularly mortgagors, refinance and repay their loans. An increased prepayment rate with respect to an asset-backed security subject to such a prepayment feature will have the effect of shortening the maturity of the security. If the Portfolio has purchased such an asset-backed security at a premium, a faster than anticipated prepayment rate could result in a loss of principal to the extent of the premium paid.

The Portfolio may purchase in the secondary market certain mortgage pass-through securities. There are a number of important differences among the agencies and instrumentalities of the US Government that issue mortgage-related securities and among the securities that they issue. For example, mortgage-related securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (“GNMA”) are guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest by GNMA and such guarantee is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. However, mortgage-related securities issued by the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA”) include FNMA guaranteed Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates which are solely the obligations of the FNMA, are not backed by or entitled to the full faith and credit of the United States and are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the Treasury. The Portfolio invests a significant portion of its assets in securities backed by commercial or residential mortgage loans or in issuers that hold mortgage and other asset-backed securities. Please see the Schedule of Investments for these securities. Changes in economic conditions, including delinquencies and/or defaults on assets underlying these securities, can affect the value, income and/or liquidity of such positions.

Collateralized Debt Obligations: The Portfolio may invest in collateralized debt obligations (“CDOs”), which include collateralized bond obligations (“CBOs”) and collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”). CBOs and CLOs are types of asset-backed securities. A CDO is a bankruptcy remote entity which is backed by a diversified pool of debt securities (CBOs) or syndicated bank loans (CLOs). The cashflows of the CDO can be split into multiple segments, called “tranches”, which will vary in risk profile and yield. The riskiest segment is the subordinated or “equity” tranche. This tranche bears the greatest risk of defaults from the underlying assets in the CDO and serves to protect the other, more senior, tranches from default in all but the most severe circumstances. Since it is shielded from defaults by the more junior tranches, a “senior” tranche will typically have higher credit ratings and lower yields than their underlying securities, and often receive investment grade ratings from one or more of the nationally recognized rating agencies. Despite the protection from the more junior tranches, senior tranches can experience substantial losses due to actual defaults, increased sensitivity to future defaults and the disappearance of one or more protecting tranches as a result of changes in the credit profile of the underlying pool of assets.

Multiple Class Pass-Through Securities: The Portfolio may invest in multiple class pass-through securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations and commercial mortgage backed securities. These multiple class securities may be issued by GNMA, US Government agencies or instrumentalities or by trusts formed by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans. In general, these securities are debt obligations of a

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    29


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

legal entity that are collateralized by, and multiple class pass-through securities represent direct ownership interests in, a pool of residential or commercial mortgage loans or mortgage pass-through securities, the payments on which are used to make payments on the multiple class pass-through securities. The markets for multiple class pass-through securities may be more illiquid than those of other securities. Classes of multiple class pass-through securities include interest only (“IOs”), principal only (“POs”), planned amortization classes and targeted amortization classes. IOs and POs are stripped mortgage-backed securities representing interests in a pool of mortgages the cash flow from which has been separated into interest and principal components. IOs receive the interest portion of the cash flow while POs receive the principal portion. IOs and POs can be extremely volatile in response to changes in interest rates. As interest rates rise and fall, the value of IOs tends to move in the same direction as interest rates. POs perform best when prepayments on the underlying mortgages rise since this increases the rate at which the investment is returned and the yield to maturity on the PO. When payments on mortgages underlying a PO are slower than anticipated, the life of the PO is lengthened and the yield to maturity is reduced. If the underlying mortgage assets experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, the Portfolios may not fully recoup their initial investments in IOs.

Stripped Mortgage Backed Securities: The Portfolio may invest in stripped mortgage-backed securities issued by the US government, its agencies and instrumentalities. Stripped mortgage-backed securities are usually structured with two classes that receive different proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. The Portfolio also may invest in stripped mortgage-backed securities that are privately issued.

TBA Commitments: The Portfolio may enter into TBA commitments to purchase or sell securities for a fixed price at a future date. TBA commitments are considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased or sold declines or increases prior to settlement date, which is in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolio’s other assets.

Capital Trusts: These securities are typically issued by corporations, generally in the form of interest-bearing notes with preferred securities characteristics, or by an affiliated business trust of a corporation, generally in the form of beneficial interests in subordinated debentures or similarly structured securities. The securities can be structured as either fixed or adjustable coupon securities that can have either a perpetual or stated maturity date. Dividends can be deferred without creating an event of default or acceleration, although maturity cannot take place unless all cumulative payment obligations have been met. The deferral of payments does not affect the purchase or sale of these securities in the open market. Payments on these securities are treated as interest rather than dividends for Federal income tax purposes. These securities can have a rating that is slightly below that of the issuing company’s senior debt securities.

Preferred Stock: The Portfolio may invest in preferred stocks. Preferred stock has a preference over common stock in liquidation (and generally in receiving dividends as well) but is subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer in all respects. As a general rule, the market value of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk, while the market price of convertible preferred stock generally also reflects some element of conversion value. Because preferred stock is junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics. Unlike interest payments on debt securities, preferred stock dividends are payable only if declared by the issuer’s board of directors. Preferred stock also may be subject to optional or mandatory redemption provisions.

Forward Commitments and When-Issued Delayed Delivery Securities: The Portfolio may purchase securities on a when-issued basis and may purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis. Settlement of such transactions normally occurs within a month or more after the purchase or sale commitment is made. The Portfolio may purchase securities under such conditions only with the intention of actually acquiring them, 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 purchaser is not entitled to any of the interest earned prior to settlement. 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.

Inflation-Indexed Bonds: Inflation-indexed bonds are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation. If the index measuring inflation falls, the principal value of inflation-indexed bonds will be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a smaller principal amount) will be reduced. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of US Treasury inflation-indexed bonds. For bonds that do not provide a similar guarantee, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions: The Portfolio may sell mortgage-backed securities and simultaneously contract to repurchase substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specific future date at an agreed upon price. Pools of mortgage securities are used to collateralize mortgage dollar roll transactions and may have different prepayment histories than those sold. During the period between the sale and the repurchase, the Portfolio will not be entitled to receive interest and principal payments on the securities sold. Proceeds of the sale will be invested in additional instruments for the Portfolio, and the income from these investments will generate income for the Portfolio. The Portfolio will account for dollar roll transactions as purchases and sales and realize gains and losses on these transactions.

 

30

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

Mortgage dollar rolls involve the risk that the market value of the securities that the Portfolio is required to purchase may decline below the agreed upon repurchase price of those securities. If investment performance of securities purchased with proceeds from these transactions does not exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the dollar roll, the use of this technique will adversely impact the investment performance of the Portfolio.

Treasury Roll Transactions: A treasury roll transaction involves the sale of a Treasury security, with an agreement to repurchase the same security at an agreed upon price and date. Treasury rolls constitutes a borrowing (not treated as purchase and sales) and the difference between the sale and repurchase prices represents interest expense at an agreed upon rate. Whether such a transaction produces a positive impact on performance depends upon whether the income and gains on the securities purchased with the proceeds received from the sale of the security exceeds the interest expense incurred by the Portfolio. Treasury rolls are not considered purchases and sales and any gains or losses incurred on the treasury rolls will be deferred until the treasury securities are disposed.

Treasury roll transactions involve the risk that the market value of the securities that the Portfolio is required to purchase may decline below the agreed upon repurchase price of those securities. If investment performance of securities purchased with proceeds from these transactions does not exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the dollar roll, the use of this technique will adversely impact the investment performance of the Portfolio.

Zero-Coupon Bonds: The Portfolio may invest in zero-coupon bonds, which are normally issued at a significant discount from face value and do not provide for periodic interest payments. Zero-coupon bonds may experience greater volatility in market value than similar maturity debt obligations which provide for regular interest payments.

Segregation and Collateralization: In cases in which the 1940 Act and the interpretive positions of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) require that the Portfolio segregate assets in connection with certain investments (e.g., TBA’s beyond normal settlement, extended settlements, swaps, written swaptions, written options, forward foreign currency contracts and financial futures contracts), the Portfolio will, consistent with certain interpretive letters issued by the SEC, designate on its books and records cash or other liquid debt securities having a market value at least equal to the amount that would otherwise be required to be physically segregated. Furthermore, based on requirements and agreements with certain exchanges and third party broker-dealers, the Portfolio may also be required to deliver or deposit securities as collateral for certain investments (e.g., swaps, written options and financial futures contracts).

Investment Transactions and Investment Income: Investment transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered into (the trade dates). Realized gains and losses on investment transactions are determined on the identified cost method. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Dividends from foreign securities where the ex-dividend date may have passed are subsequently recorded when the Portfolio has determined the ex-dividend date. Upon notification from issuers, some of the dividend income received from a real estate investment trust may be redesignated as a reduction of cost of the related investment and/or realized gain. Interest income is recognized on the accrual method. The Portfolio amortizes all premiums and discounts on debt securities. Income, realized and unrealized gains and losses of the Portfolio is allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

Dividends and Distributions: Dividends and distributions paid by the Portfolio are recorded on the ex-dividend dates.

Securities Lending: The Portfolio may lend securities to financial institutions that provide cash which will be maintained at all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the Portfolio and any additional required collateral is delivered to the Portfolio on the next business day. The Portfolio typically receives income on the loaned securities but does not receive income on the collateral. The Portfolio may invest the cash collateral and retain the amount earned on such investment, net of any amount rebated to the borrower. Loans of securities are terminable at any time and the borrower, after notice, is required to return borrowed securities within the standard time period for settlement of securities transactions. The Portfolio may pay reasonable lending agent, administrative and custodial fees in connection with its loans. In the event that the borrower defaults on its obligation to return borrowed securities because of insolvency or for any other reason, the Portfolio could experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Portfolio also could suffer a loss if the value of an investment purchased with cash collateral falls below the market value of loaned securities.

Income Taxes: It is the Portfolio’s policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required. Under the applicable foreign tax law, a withholding tax may be imposed on interest, dividends and capital gains at various rates.

The Portfolio files US federal and various state and local tax returns. No income tax returns are currently under examination. The statutes of limitations on the Portfolio’s US federal income tax returns remain open for each of the four years ended September 30, 2008. The statutes of limitations on the Portfolio’s state and local tax returns may remain open for an additional year depending upon the jurisdiction.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement: In March 2008, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“FAS 161”), was issued. FAS 161 is intended to improve financial reporting for derivative instruments by requiring enhanced disclosure

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    31


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

that enables investors to understand how and why an entity uses derivatives, how derivatives are accounted for, and how derivative instruments affect an entity’s results of operations and financial position. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. The impact on the Portfolio’s financial statement disclosures is currently being assessed.

Other: Expenses directly related to the Portfolio or class are charged to that Portfolio or class. Other operating expenses shared by several funds are pro-rated among those funds on the basis of relative net assets or other appropriate methods. Other expenses of the Portfolio are allocated daily to each class based on its relative net assets.

2. Investment Advisory Agreements and Other Transactions with Affiliates:

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolio, entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with BlackRock Advisors, LLC (the “Advisor”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc., to provide investment advisory services. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) and Bank of America Corporation (“BAC”) are the largest stockholders of BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”). BAC became a stockholder of BlackRock following its acquisition of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. (“Merrill Lynch”) on January 1, 2009. Prior to that date, both PNC and Merrill Lynch were considered affiliates of the Fund under the 1940 Act. Subsequent to the acquisition, PNC remains an affiliate, but due to the restructuring of Merrill Lynch’s ownership interest of BlackRock, BAC is not deemed to be an affiliate under the 1940 Act.

The Advisor is responsible for the management of the Portfolio and provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain other services necessary to the operations of the Portfolio. For such services, the Portfolio pays the Advisor a monthly fee based on the average daily value of the Portfolio’s net assets, at the following annual rates:

 

Average Daily Net Assets

      

First $1 Billion

   0.550 %

$1 Billion - $2 Billion

   0.500  

$2 Billion - $3 Billion

   0.475  

Greater Than $3 Billion

   0.450  

In addition, the Advisor has entered into a sub-advisory agreement with BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. (“BFM”), an affiliate of the Advisor, pursuant to which BFM serves as sub-advisor for the Portfolio. The Advisor pays the sub-advisor, for services it provides, a monthly fee that is a percentage of the investment advisory fees paid by the Portfolio to the Advisor

The Advisor contractually agreed to waive or reimburse fees or expenses until February 1, 2010, in order to limit expenses. These expense limits apply to the aggregate expenses incurred on a share class (excluding: interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, expenses incurred as a result of investments in other funds and other expenses attributable to, and incurred as a result of, the Portfolio’s investments and other extraordinary expenses). This agreement is reviewed annually by the Board. The current expense limitations as a percentage of net assets are as follows:

 

Share Classes  

Institutional

    Service     Investor A     Investor B     Investor C  
0.86 %   1.16 %   1.33 %   2.08 %   2.08 %

PFPC Trust Company, an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as custodian for the Portfolio. For these services, the custodian receives a fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily gross assets of the Portfolio. The fee is paid at the following annual rates: 0.005% of the first $400 million, 0.004% of the next $1.6 billion, and 0.003% of average daily gross assets in excess of $2 billion; plus per transaction charges and other miscellaneous fees incurred on behalf of the Portfolio.

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc. (“PNCGIS”), an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of PNC, serves as transfer and dividend disbursing agent. Each class of the Portfolio bears the costs of transfer agent fees associated with such respective class. Transfer agent fees borne by each class of the Portfolio are comprised of those fees charged for all shareholder communications including mailing of shareholder reports, dividend and distribution notices, and proxy materials for shareholders meetings, as well as per account and per transaction fees related to servicing and maintenance of shareholder accounts, including the issuing, redeeming and transferring of shares of each class of the Portfolio, 12b-1 fee calculations, check writing, anti-money laundering services, and customer identification services.

Pursuant to written agreements, Merrill Lynch and certain other affiliates provide the Portfolio with sub-accounting, recordkeeping, sub-transfer agency and other administrative services with respect to sub-accounts they service. For these services, affiliates receive an annual fee per shareholder account which will vary depending on share class. The Portfolio incurred $23,057 in return for these services, with $13,112 to Merrill Lynch during period from October 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008, and $9,945 to other affiliates for the six months ended March 31, 2009, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statement of Operations.

PNCGIS and the Advisor act as co-administrators for the Portfolio. For these services, the co-administrators receive a combined administration fee computed daily and payable monthly, based on a percentage of the average daily net assets of the Portfolio. The combined administration fee is based on a percentage of the average daily net assets at the following annual rates: 0.075% of the first $500 million, 0.065% of the next $500 million and 0.055% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, each of the share classes is charged an administration fee based on the following percentages of average daily net assets of each respective class: 0.025% of the first $500 million of the Portfolio, 0.015% of the next $500 million and 0.005% of average of daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. In addition, PNCGIS and the Advisor may have, at their discretion, voluntarily waived all or any portion of their administration fees for the Portfolio or a share class.

 

32

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

The Portfolio has received an exemptive order from the SEC permitting it to lend portfolio securities to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith (“MLPF&S”) or its affiliates. Pursuant to that order, the Portfolio has retained BlackRock Investment Management, LLC (“BIM”), an affiliate of the Advisor, as the securities lending agent for a fee based on a share of the returns on investment of cash collateral. BIM may, on behalf of the Portfolio, invest cash collateral received by the Portfolio for such loans, among other things, in a private investment company managed by the Advisor or in registered money market funds advised by the Advisor or its affiliates. The share of income earned by the Portfolio on such investments is shown as securities lending - affiliated on the Statement of Operations. For the six months ended March 31, 2009, BIM received $3,669 in securities lending agent fees.

The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolio, has entered into a separate Distribution Agreement and Distribution Plan with BlackRock Investment, LLC (“BIL”), an affiliates of BlackRock, Inc. Pursuant to the Distribution Plan, in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, the Portfolio pays BIL ongoing service and distribution fees. The fees are accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates based upon the average daily net assets of the shares of the Portfolio as follows:

 

     Service
Fee
    Distribution
Fee
 

Service

   0.25 %   —    

Investor A

   0.25 %   —    

Investor B

   0.25 %   0.75 %

Investor C

   0.25 %   0.75 %

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the Portfolio paid $123,028 to affiliates in return for distribution and sales support services.

The Advisor maintains a call center, which is responsible for providing certain shareholder services to the Portfolio, such as responding to shareholder inquiries and processing transactions based upon instructions from shareholders with respect to the subscription and redemption of Portfolio shares. During the six months ended March 31, 2009, the Portfolio reimbursed the Advisor the following amounts for costs incurred in running the call center, which are a component of the transfer agent fees in the accompanying Statement of Operations.

 

Share Classes

Institutional

  Service   Investor A   Investor B   Investor C   Total
$ 493   $ 53   $ 33,854   $ 11,317   $ 3,352   $ 49,069

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the following chart shows the various types of class specific expenses borne directly by each class of the Portfolio and any associated waivers or reimbursements of those expenses.

 

     Share Classes  
     Institutional     Service     Investor A     Investor B     Investor C    Total  

Administration Fees

   $ 2,897     $ 158     $ 39,228     $ 9,150     $ 8,210    $ 59,643  

Administration Fees Waived

     (2,880 )     (81 )     (6,581 )     (3,314 )     —        (12,856 )

Service and Distribution Fees

     —         1,575       389,048       362,419       327,110      1,080,152  

Transfer Agent Fees

     17,327       929       337,806       105,400       51,316      512,778  

Transfer Agent Fees Waived

     (553 )     (25 )     (5,443 )     (2,412 )     —        (8,433 )

Transfer Agent Fees Reimbursed

     (8,679 )     (406 )     (1,124 )     (2,429 )     —        (12,638 )

If within two years following a waiver or reimbursement, the operating expenses of a share class that previously received a waiver or reimbursement from the Advisor are less than the expense limit for that share class, the Advisor is entitled to be reimbursed by such share class up to the amount of fees waived or expenses reimbursed under the agreement if: (1) the Portfolio has more than $50 million in assets, (2) the Advisor or an affiliate continues to serve as the Portfolio’s investment advisor or administrator and (3) the Board has approved in advance the payments to the Advisor at the previous quarterly meeting.

At March 31, 2009, the amounts subject to possible future reimbursement under the expense limitation agreement are as follows:

 

Expiring January 31,
2010   2011   2012
$ 47,788   $ 15,016   $ 20,706

For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Merrill Lynch, through its affiliated broker dealer, MLPF&S, earned $7,204 in commissions on transactions of securities.

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates earned underwriting discounts, direct commissions and dealer concessions on sales of the Portfolio’s Investor A Shares of $8,600.

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, affiliates received contingent deferred sales charges relating to transactions in Investor A, B and C Shares of $4,546, $88,191 and $10,460 respectively.

The Portfolio may earn income on positive cash balances in demand deposit accounts that are maintained by PNCGIS on behalf of the Portfolio. The income earned for the six months ended March 31, 2009 was $1,089 which is included in interest and dividends—affiliated on the Statement of Operations.

The Portfolio may also receive earnings credits related to cash balances with PNCGIS which are shown on the Statement of Operations as fees paid indirectly.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    33


Notes to Financial Statements (continued)   

 

Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or directors of BlackRock, Inc. or its affiliates. The Portfolio reimburses the Advisor for compensation paid to the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer.

3. Investments:

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of investments (including paydowns, TBA and mortgage dollar roll transactions), excluding short-term securities and US government securities, were $675,840,729 and $711,073,595, respectively.

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of US government securities were $29,662,686 and $25,356,535, respectively.

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, purchases and sales of mortgage dollar rolls were $324,973,820 and $325,271,387, respectively.

Written options transactions entered into during the six months ended March 31, 2009 are summarized as follows:

 

     Contracts     Premium  

Balance at 9/30/08

   (7,520 )   $ (2,096,700 )

Written

   (2,970 )     (1,498,490 )

Expired

   3,080       241,620  

Closed

   4,000       1,802,250  
              

Balance at 3/31/09

   (3,410 )   $ (1,551,320 )

4. Average Borrowings:

For the six months ended March 31, 2009, the average amount outstanding of investments considered as borrowings was approximately $902,652 and daily weighted average interest rate was 0.15%.

5. Short-Term Borrowings:

The Portfolio, along with certain other funds managed by the Advisor and its affiliates, is a party to a $500 million credit agreement with a group of lenders, which expired November 2008 and was renewed until November 2009. The Portfolio may borrow under the credit agreement to fund shareholder redemptions and for other lawful purposes other than for leverage. The Portfolio may borrow up to the maximum amount allowable under the Portfolio’s current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, subject to various other legal, regulatory or contractual limits. The Portfolio paid its pro rata share of a 0.02% upfront fee on the aggregate commitment amount based on its net assets as of October 31, 2008. The Portfolio pays a commitment fee of 0.08% per annum based on the Portfolio’s pro rata share of the unused portion of the credit agreement, which is included in miscellaneous on the Statement of Operations. Amounts borrowed under the credit agreement bear interest at a rate equal to, the higher of the (a) federal funds effective rate and (b) reserve adjusted one month LIBOR, plus, in each case, the higher of (i) 1.50% and (ii) 50% of the CDX index (as defined in the credit agreement) in effect from time to time. The Portfolio did not borrow under the credit agreement during the six months ended March 31, 2009.

6. Capital Loss Carryforward:

As of September 30, 2008, the Portfolio had a capital loss carryforward available to offset future realized capital gains of $2,685,812 expiring September 30, 2010.

7. Market and Credit Risk:

In the normal course of business, the Portfolio invests in securities and enters into transactions where risks exist due to fluctuations in the market (market risk) or failure of the issuer of a security to meet all its obligations (credit risk). The value of securities held by the Portfolio may decline in response to certain events, including those directly involving the issuers whose securities are owned by the Portfolio; conditions affecting the general economy; overall market changes; local, regional or global political, social or economic instability; and currency and interest rate and price fluctuations. Similar to credit risk, the Portfolio may be exposed to counterparty risk, or the risk that an entity with which the Portfolio has unsettled or open transactions may default. Financial assets, which potentially expose the Portfolio to credit and counterparty risks, consist principally of investments and cash due from counterparties. The extent of the Portfolio’s exposure to credit and counterparty risks with respect to these financial assets is approximated by their value recorded in the Portfolio’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

34

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)   

 

8. Capital Shares Transactions:

Transactions in shares for each period were as follows:

 

     Six Months Ended
March 31, 2009
    Year Ended
September 30, 2008
 
     Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Institutional

        

Shares sold

   1,133,297     $ 12,317,395     719,701     $ 10,781,671  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   41,108       437,311     116,442       1,821,085  
                            

Total issued

   1,174,405       12,754,706     836,143       12,602,756  

Shares redeemed

   (714,403 )     (7,513,365 )   (1,089,350 )     (17,388,674 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   460,002     $ 5,241,341     (253,207 )   $ (4,785,918 )
                            

Service

        

Shares sold

   4,774     $ 50,898     15,761     $ 240,679  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   588       6,246     2,025       31,561  
                            

Total issued

   5,362       57,144     17,786       272,240  

Shares redeemed

   (9,606 )     (101,202 )   (34,266 )     (509,908 )
                            

Net decrease

   (4,244 )   $ (44,058 )   (16,480 )   $ (237,668 )
                            

Investor A

        

Shares sold

   3,845,626     $ 41,167,405     3,270,332     $ 48,680,010  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   695,942       7,376,271     2,930,518       45,682,395  
                            

Total issued

   4,541,568       48,543,676     6,200,850       94,362,405  

Shares redeemed

   (6,666,042 )     (70,867,281 )   (5,775,786 )     (86,718,679 )
                            

Net increase (decrease)

   (2,124,474 )   $ (22,323,605 )   425,064     $ 7,643,726  
                            

Investor B

        

Shares sold

   264,834     $ 2,800,477     529,002     $ 7,998,032  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   145,877       1,522,916     789,550       12,215,796  
                            

Total issued

   410,711       4,323,393     1,318,552       20,213,828  

Shares redeemed

   (1,848,816 )     (19,308,153 )   (2,736,738 )     (40,629,040 )
                            

Net decrease

   (1,438,105 )   $ (14,984,760 )   (1,418,186 )   $ (20,415,212 )
                            

Investor C

        

Shares sold

   3,299,779     $ 35,061,542     1,208,908     $ 17,588,746  

Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends and distributions

   133,233       1,387,519     448,828       6,911,581  
                            

Total issued

   3,433,012       36,449,061     1,657,736       24,500,327  

Shares redeemed

   (2,989,092 )     (31,101,665 )   (1,232,015 )     (18,103,485 )
                            

Net increase

   443,920     $ 5,347,396     425,721     $ 6,396,842  
                            

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    35


Officers and Trustees

Ronald W. Forbes, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

Rodney D. Johnson, Co-Chairman of the Board and Trustee

David O. Beim, Trustee

Dr. Matina Horner, Trustee

Herbert I. London, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Cynthia A. Montgomery, Trustee

Joseph P. Platt, Jr., Trustee

Robert C. Robb, Jr., Trustee

Toby Rosenblatt, Trustee

Kenneth L. Urish, Chairman of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Frederick W. Winter, Member of the Audit Committee and Trustee

Richard S. Davis, Trustee

Henry Gabbay, Trustee

Donald C. Burke, Fund President and Chief Executive Officer

Anne F. Ackerley, Vice President

Neal J. Andrews, Chief Financial Officer

Jay M. Fife, Treasurer

Brian P. Kindelan, Chief Compliance Officer of the Fund

Howard Surloff, Secretary

Investment Advisor and Co-Administrator

BlackRock Advisors, LLC

Wilmington, DE 19809

Sub-Advisor

BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.

New York, NY 10022

Custodian

PFPC Trust Company

Philadelphia, PA 19153

Co-Administrator and Transfer Agent

PNC Global Investment Servicing (U.S.) Inc.

Wilmington, DE 19809

Distributor

BlackRock Investments, LLC

New York, NY 10022

Legal Counsel

Sidley Austin LLP

New York, NY 10019

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Address of the Portfolio

100 Bellevue Parkway.

Wilmington, DE 19809

 

36

  SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT    MARCH 31, 2009     


Additional Information   

BlackRock Privacy Principles

BlackRock is committed to maintaining the privacy of its current and former fund investors and individual clients (collectively, “Clients”) and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information BlackRock collects, how we protect that information and why in certain cases we share such information with select parties.

If you are located in a jurisdiction where specific laws, rules or regulations require BlackRock to provide you with additional or different privacy-related rights beyond what is set forth below, then BlackRock will comply with those specific laws, rules or regulations.

BlackRock obtains or verifies personal non-public information from and about you from different sources, including the following: (i) information we receive from you or, if applicable, your financial intermediary, on applications, forms or other documents; (ii) information about your transactions with us, our affiliates, or others; (iii) information we receive from a consumer reporting agency; and (iv) from visits to our websites.

BlackRock does not sell or disclose to non-affiliated third parties any non-public personal information about its Clients, except as permitted by law or as is necessary to respond to regulatory requests or to service Client accounts. These non-affiliated third parties are required to protect the confidentiality and security of this information and to use it only for its intended purpose.

We may share information with our affiliates to service your account or to provide you with information about other BlackRock products or services that may be of interest to you. In addition, BlackRock restricts access to non-public personal information about its Clients to those BlackRock employees with a legitimate business need for the information. BlackRock maintains physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that are designed to protect the non-public personal information of its Clients, including procedures relating to the proper storage and disposal of such information.

Availability of Additional Information

Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available on the Fund’s website or shareholders can sign up for e-mail notifications of quarterly statements, annual and semi-annual reports and prospectuses by enrolling in the Fund’s electronic delivery program.

To enroll:

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts with Investment Advisors, Banks or Brokerages:

Please contact your financial advisor. Please note that not all investment advisors, banks or brokerages may offer this service.

Shareholders Who Hold Accounts Directly With BlackRock

 

1) Access the BlackRock website at

http://www.blackrock.com/edelivery

 

2) Click on the applicable link and follow the steps to sign up

 

3) Log into your account

Householding

The Fund will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including prospectuses, annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and it is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your shareholder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please contact the Fund at (800) 441-7762.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    37


Additional Information (concluded)   

Availability of Additional Information (concluded)

Availability of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available (1) without charge, upon request by calling (800) 441-7762; (2) at www.blackrock.com; and (3) on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Proxy Voting Record

Information about how the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolios during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request and without charge (1) at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 441-7762 (2) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Forms N-Q are available on the SEC’s website at http:// www.sec.gov and may also 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 (800) SEC-0330. The Fund’s Forms N-Q may also be obtained upon request and without charge by calling (800) 441-7762.

Shareholder Privileges

Account Information

Call us at (800) 441-7762 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST Monday through Friday to get information about your account balances, recent transactions and share prices. You can also reach us on the Web at www.blackrock.com/funds.

Automatic Investment Plans

Investor Class shareholders who want to invest regularly can arrange to have $50 or more automatically deducted from their checking or savings account and invested in any of the BlackRock portfolios.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan

Investor Class shareholders can establish a systematic withdrawal plan and receive periodic payments of $50 or more from their BlackRock portfolios, as long as their account is at least $10,000.

Retirement Plans

Shareholders may make investments in conjunction with Traditional, Rollover, Roth, Coverdell, Simple IRA’s, SEP IRA’s and 403(b) Plans.

 

38

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


A World-Class Mutual Fund Family   

BlackRock offers a diverse lineup of open-end mutual funds crossing all investment styles and managed by experts in equity, fixed income and tax-exempt investing.

 

Equity Funds

     

BlackRock All-Cap Energy & Resources Portfolio

  

BlackRock Global Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Mid-Cap Value Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Asset Allocation Portfolio†

  

BlackRock Global SmallCap Fund

  

BlackRock Mid Cap Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Aurora Portfolio

  

BlackRock Health Sciences Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Natural Resources Trust

BlackRock Balanced Capital Fund†

  

BlackRock Healthcare Fund

  

BlackRock Pacific Fund

BlackRock Basic Value Fund

  

BlackRock Index Equity Portfolio*

  

BlackRock Science & Technology Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Capital Appreciation Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Fund

  

BlackRock Energy & Resources Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Diversification Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Core Equity Portfolio

BlackRock Equity Dividend Fund

  

BlackRock International Index Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

BlackRock EuroFund

  

BlackRock International Opportunities Portfolio

  

BlackRock Small Cap Growth Fund II

BlackRock Focus Growth Fund

  

BlackRock International Value Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Index Fund

BlackRock Focus Value Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Core Fund

  

BlackRock Small Cap Value Equity Portfolio*

BlackRock Fundamental Growth Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Core Plus Fund

  

BlackRock Small/Mid-Cap Growth Portfolio

BlackRock Global Allocation Fund†

  

BlackRock Large Cap Growth Fund

  

BlackRock S&P 500 Index Fund

BlackRock Global Dynamic Equity Fund

  

BlackRock Large Cap Value Fund

  

BlackRock U.S. Opportunities Portfolio

BlackRock Global Emerging Markets Fund

  

BlackRock Latin America Fund

  

BlackRock Utilities and Telecommunications Fund

BlackRock Global Financial Services Fund

  

BlackRock Mid-Cap Growth Equity Portfolio

  

BlackRock Value Opportunities Fund

BlackRock Global Growth Fund

     

Fixed Income Funds

     

BlackRock Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Income Builder Portfolio

  

BlackRock Short-Term Bond Fund

BlackRock Emerging Market Debt Portfolio

  

BlackRock Inflation Protected Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Strategic Income Portfolio

BlackRock Enhanced Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Intermediate Government Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Total Return Fund

BlackRock GNMA Portfolio

     

BlackRock Total Return Portfolio II

BlackRock Government Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock International Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock World Income Fund

BlackRock High Income Fund

  

BlackRock Long Duration Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock High Yield Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Low Duration Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Income Portfolio

  

BlackRock Managed Income Portfolio

  

Municipal Bond Funds

     

BlackRock AMT-Free Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock Kentucky Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock New York Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock California Municipal Bond Fund

  

BlackRock Municipal Insured Fund

  

BlackRock Ohio Municipal Bond Portfolio

BlackRock Delaware Municipal Bond Portfolio

  

BlackRock National Municipal Fund

  

BlackRock Pennsylvania Municipal Bond Fund

BlackRock High Yield Municipal Fund

  

BlackRock New Jersey Municipal Bond Fund

  

BlackRock Short-Term Municipal Fund

BlackRock Intermediate Municipal Fund

     

Target Risk & Target Date Funds

     

BlackRock Prepared Portfolios

  

BlackRock Lifecycle Prepared Portfolios

  

Conservative Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2010

  

Prepared Portfolio 2030

Moderate Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2015

  

Prepared Portfolio 2035

Growth Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2020

  

Prepared Portfolio 2040

Aggressive Growth Prepared Portfolio

  

Prepared Portfolio 2025

  

Prepared Portfolio 2045

     

Prepared Portfolio 2050

 

* See the prospectus for information on specific limitations on investments in the fund.

 

Mixed asset fund.

BlackRock mutual funds are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. You should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the funds under consideration carefully before investing. Each fund’s prospectus contains this and other information and is available at www.blackrock.com or by calling (800) 882-0052 or from your financial advisor. The prospectus should be read carefully before investing.

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    39


LOGO

This report is transmitted to shareholders only. It is not authorized for use as an offer of sale or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Portfolio unless accompanied or preceded by that Portfolio’s current prospectus. Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. Investment returns and principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Statements and other information herein are as dated and are subject to change.

Investment in foreign securities involves special risks including fluctuating foreign exchange rates, foreign government regulations, differing degrees of liquidity and the possibility of substantial volatility due to adverse political, economic or other developments.

LOGO

AA-3/09-SAR


Item 2     Code of Ethics – Not Applicable to this semi-annual report
Item 3     Audit Committee Financial Expert – Not Applicable to this semi-annual report
Item 4     Principal Accountant Fees and Services – Not Applicable to this semi-annual report
Item 5     Audit Committee of Listed Registrants – Not Applicable
Item 6    

Investments

 

(a) Asset Allocation Portfolio – Schedule of Investments.


Schedule of Investments March 31, 2009 (Unaudited)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
   Value

Asset Backed Securities

     

American Express Issuance Trust, Series 08-2, Class A,

     

4.02%, 2/15/10

   $ 1,420    $ 1,411,313

Amortizing Residential Collateral Trust, Series 02-BC5, Class M2,

     

2.32%, 7/25/32(a)

     22      6,113

Carrington Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 06-NC4, Class A1,

     

0.57%, 10/25/36(a)

     257      241,011

Centex Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 02-A, Class MF2,

     

6.54%, 1/25/32(a)

     185      10,755

Centex Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 03-B, Class M3,

     

3.62%, 6/25/33(a)

     137      49,144

Chase Issuance Trust, Series 06-A3, Class A3,

     

0.55%, 7/15/11(a)

     1,075      1,072,288

Chase Issuance Trust, Series 07-A17, Class A,

     

5.12%, 10/15/12

     1,200      1,207,463

Chase Issuance Trust, Series 08-A9, Class A9,

     

4.26%, 5/15/13

     660      657,614

Citibank OMNI Master Trust, Series 07-A9A, Class A9,

     

1.62%, 12/23/13(a)(b)

     1,435      1,299,491

Conseco Financial Corp., Series 96-7, Class A6,

     

7.65%, 10/15/27(a)

     146      129,930

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 02-2, Class M2,

     

2.25%, 12/25/31(a)

     2      657

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 03-2, Class M2,

     

3.00%, 3/26/33(a)

     123      32,624

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 03-3, Class M6,

     

3.42%, 7/25/32(a)

     3      379

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 03-BCI, Class M2,

     

3.52%, 9/25/32(a)

     35      3,575

Countrywide Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 06-18, Class 2A1,

     

0.57%, 7/25/36(a)

     309      291,055

Credit-Based Asset Servicing and Securitization, Series 04-CB4, Class M1,

     

5.77%, 5/25/35(c)

     198      141,503

General Electric Business Loan Trust, Series 03-1, Class A,

     

0.99%, 4/15/31(a)(b)

     134      96,719

General Electric Business Loan Trust, Series 03-1, Class B,

     

1.86%, 4/15/31(a)(b)

     90      8,960

General Electric Business Loan Trust, Series 03-2A, Class B,

     

1.56%, 11/15/31(a)(b)

     589      395,143

General Electric Business Loan Trust, Series 04-1, Class B,

     

1.26%, 5/15/32(a)(b)

     146      60,864

Green Tree Manufactured Housing Contract, Series 96-6, Class A6,

     

7.95%, 9/15/27

     316      290,953

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Trust, Series 05-2, Class A2,

     

4.07%, 2/15/12

     512      501,793

Home Equity Asset Trust, Series 07-2, Class 2A1,

     

0.63%, 7/25/37(a)

     293      241,735

Lehman XS Trust, Series 05-5N, Class 3A2,

     

0.88%, 11/25/35(a)

     563      147,274

Long Beach Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 03-4, Class M5A,

     

6.52%, 8/25/33(a)

     45      5,889

Long Beach Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 04-1, Class M5,

     

1.62%, 2/25/34(a)

     106      41,257

Massachusetts RRB Special Purpose Trust, Series 01-1, Class A,

     

6.53%, 6/01/15

     673      727,058

MBNA Credit Card Master Note Trust, Series 06-A4, Class A4,

     

0.55%, 9/15/11(a)

     1,650      1,648,303

Nissan Auto Receivables Owner Trust, Series 09-A, Class 2A,

     

2.94%, 7/15/11

     1,060      1,052,731

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 02-6, Class M1,

     

1.65%, 11/25/32(a)

     17      7,254

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 02-6, Class M2,

     

3.07%, 11/25/32(a)

     51      5,800

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 03-4, Class A2,

     

0.84%, 7/25/33(a)

     84      37,862

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 03-4, Class M5A,

     

4.27%, 7/25/33(a)

     38      4,845

Option One Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 03-5, Class M4,

     

3.42%, 8/25/33(a)

     34      3,242

Residential Asset Mortgage Products, Inc., Series 03-RZ2, Class M3,

     

5.50%, 4/25/33(c)

     81      25,583

Residential Asset Securities Corp., Series 02-KS4, Class AIIB,

     

1.02%, 7/25/32(a)

     38      17,247

Portfolio Abbreviations

 

To simplify the listings of Portfolio holdings in the Schedule of Investments, we have abbreviated certain descriptions according to the list on the right.   ADR   American Depositary Receipts   HKD   Hong Kong Dollar
  ARM   Adjustable Rate Mortgage   IO   Interest Only
  AUD   Australian Dollar   JPY   Japanese Yen
  CAD   Canadian Dollar   LIBOR   London InterBank Offered Rate
  CHF   Swiss Francs   MXN   Mexican Peso
  CMT   Constant Maturity Treasury Rate   NOK   Norwegian Krone
  CZK   Czech Koruna   PO   Principal Only
  DJIA   Dow Jones Industrial Average   SEK   Swedish Krona
  DKK   Danish Krone   SGD   Singapore Dollar
  EUR   Euro   TBA   To-Be-Announced
  GBP   British Pound   USD   United States Dollar
      ZAR   South African Rand

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    1


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
   Value

Asset Backed Securities

     

Small Business Administration Participation Certificates, Series 97-20F, Class 1,

     

7.20%, 6/01/17

   $ 302    $ 326,970

Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust, Series 03-BC3, Class M2,

     

3.45%, 4/25/33(a)

     11      1,838

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 05-4, Class A2,

     

1.24%, 4/26/21(a)

     475      459,091

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 08-5, Class A2,

     

2.26%, 10/25/16(a)

     1,720      1,682,043

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 08-5, Class A3,

     

2.46%, 1/25/18(a)

     440      429,744

Student Loan Marketing Assoc. Student Loan Trust, Series 08-5, Class A4,

     

2.86%, 7/25/23(a)

     1,170      1,105,865
         

Total Asset Backed Securities — 3.6%

        15,880,978
         

Capital Trusts

     

Commercial Banks — 0.1%

     

Barclays Bank Plc (United Kingdom), Unsecured Notes,

     

7.43%(a)(b)(d)(e)

     350      145,400

Royal Bank of Scotland Group Plc (United Kingdom), Subordinated Capital Securities,

     

7.64%(a)(d)(e)

     500      112,500

UBS Preferred Funding Trust I, Capital Securities,

     

8.62%(a)(e)

     35      14,047

Wells Fargo & Co., Series K, Subordinated Notes,

     

7.98%(a)(e)

     675      317,250
         
        589,197
         

Diversified Financial Services — 0.5%

     

Bank of America Institutional Capital A, Subordinated Capital Securities,

     

8.07%, 12/31/26(b)

     225      95,010

Credit Suisse Guernsey Ltd. (Switzerland), Unsecured Notes,

     

5.86%(a)(d)(e)

     530      196,416

First Union Capital l, Subordinated Capital Securities,

     

7.94%, 1/15/27

     325      276,278

General Electric Capital Corp., Subordinated Debentures,

     

6.38%, 11/15/67(a)

     475      230,652

Goldman Sachs Capital Trust II, Unsecured Notes,

     

5.79%(a)(e)

     300      124,902

JPMorgan Chase & Co., Subordinated Depositary Shares,

     

7.90%(a)(e)

     775      498,046

JPMorgan Chase Capital XXV, Subordinated Capital Securities,

     

6.80%, 10/01/37

     1,150      761,612

Lehman Brothers Holdings Capital Trust VII, Subordinated Trust Preferred Securities,

     

5.86%(a)(e)(f)

     110      11
         
        2,182,927
         

Insurance — 0.1%

     

American International Group, Inc., Junior Subordinated Debentures,

     

8.18%, 5/15/58(a)(b)

     151      12,865

CHUBB Corp., Subordinated Capital Securities,

     

6.38%, 3/29/67(a)

     175      99,892

MetLife, Inc., Junior Subordinated Debentures,

     

6.40%, 12/15/36

     390      163,800

The Progressive Corp., Junior Subordinated Notes,

     

6.70%, 6/15/37(a)

     310      139,450
         
        416,007
         

Total Capital Trusts — 0.7%

        3,188,131
         

Collateralized Debt Obligations — 0.0%

     

Knollwood Ltd., Series 04-1A, Class C,

     

4.61%, 1/10/39(a)(b)

     111      0
         
     Shares     

Common Stocks

     

Aerospace & Defense — 0.9%

     

Alliant Techsystems, Inc.(g)

     475      31,816

Argon ST, Inc.(g)

     4,642      88,059

BAE Systems Plc

     92,308      442,718

BE Aerospace, Inc.(g)

     27,900      241,893

General Dynamics Corp.

     9,400      390,946

Goodrich Corp.

     8,475      321,118

Honeywell International, Inc.

     33,426      931,248

L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc.

     3,350      227,130

Lockheed Martin Corp.

     3,125      215,719

Northrop Grumman Corp.

     10,850      473,494

Orbital Sciences Corp.(g)

     10,950      130,195

Precision Castparts Corp.

     1,500      89,850

VT Group Plc

     51,200      346,890
         
        3,931,076
         

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.3%

     

Deutsche Post AG

     31,453      338,912

FedEx Corp.

     1,880      83,641

Forward Air Corp.

     6,700      108,741

Kintetsu World Express, Inc.

     12,700      236,285

United Parcel Service, Inc. - Class B

     7,900      388,838

UTi Worldwide, Inc.

     4,900      58,555

Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd.

     13,100      124,241
         
        1,339,213
         

Airlines — 0.3%

     

Alaska Air Group, Inc.(g)

     1,450      25,476

China Airlines Ltd.(g)

     505,100      125,973

Copa Holdings SA - Class A

     1,800      51,606

Delta Air Lines, Inc.(g)

     106,650      600,440

easyJet Plc(g)

     86,172      344,790

Southwest Airlines Co.

     9,700      61,401
         
        1,209,686
         

Auto Components — 0.2%

     

Aisin Seiki Co. Ltd.

     6,300      101,093

Autoliv, Inc.

     9,400      174,558

Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin - Class B

     3,900      144,552

Hyundai Mobis

     4,000      232,293

Westport Innovations, Inc.(g)

     20,143      100,650
         
        753,146
         

 

2

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Automobiles — 0.3%

     

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.

   50,400    $ 182,162

PT Astra International Tbk

   346,500      428,913

Toyota Motor Corp.

   25,600      813,155
         
        1,424,230
         

Beverages — 0.9%

     

Britvic Plc

   30,000      97,132

The Coca-Cola Co.

   42,873      1,884,268

Constellation Brands, Inc. - Class A(g)

   34,985      416,322

Foster’s Group Ltd.

   67,700      238,091

Heckmann Corp.(g)(h)

   18,600      89,652

Molson Coors Brewing Co. - Class B

   3,800      130,264

Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc.

   12,975      287,266

PepsiCo, Inc.

   14,475      745,173
         
        3,888,168
         

Biotechnology — 0.9%

     

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc.(g)

   2,000      39,620

Alkermes, Inc.(g)

   4,400      53,372

Amgen, Inc.(g)

   16,275      805,938

Biogen Idec, Inc.(g)

   3,800      199,196

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc.(g)

   1,200      14,820

Celera Corp.(g)

   4,600      35,098

Celgene Corp.(g)

   13,000      577,200

Cephalon, Inc.(g)

   650      44,265

Dyax Corp.(g)

   36,702      92,122

Genzyme Corp.(g)

   9,000      534,510

Gilead Sciences, Inc.(g)

   20,800      963,456

Martek Biosciences Corp.

   15,525      283,331

Myriad Genetics, Inc.(g)

   1,000      45,470

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(g)

   1,375      39,504
         
        3,727,902
         

Building Products — 0.0%

     

Griffon Corp.(g)

   8,200      61,500
         

Capital Markets — 0.9%

     

The Bank of New York Mellon Corp.

   3,700      104,525

The Charles Schwab Corp.

   9,350      144,925

Daishin Securities Co. Ltd.(g)

   8,900      110,667

Eaton Vance Corp.

   1,175      26,849

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.

   7,450      789,849

Greenhill & Co., Inc.

   300      22,155

ICAP Plc

   17,900      77,950

Invesco Ltd.

   26,938      373,361

KBW, Inc.(g)

   8,900      181,115

Knight Capital Group, Inc.—Class A(g)

   4,550      67,067

Matsui Securities Co. Ltd.

   10,500      68,941

Morgan Stanley

   12,100      275,517

NGP Capital Resources Co.

   2,700      13,419

Northern Trust Corp.

   2,724      162,950

Polaris Securities Co. Ltd.

   634,112      220,911

Raymond James Financial, Inc.(h)

   8,950      176,315

RiskMetrics Group, Inc.(g)

   5,225      74,665

Samsung Securities Co. Ltd.(g)

   1,700      71,517

Schroders Plc

   9,800      111,093

Shinko Securities Co. Ltd.

   74,400      146,864

State Street Corp.

   5,625      173,137

TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.(g)

   16,360      225,932

Treasure Island Royalty Trust(g)

   217,129      69,481

UBS AG(g)

   46,461      435,583
         
        4,124,788
         

Chemicals — 1.0%

     

Agrium, Inc.

   3,950      141,371

Air Water, Inc.

   16,600      147,172

Airgas, Inc.

   2,450      82,835

Albemarle Corp.

   15,800      343,966

Celanese Corp. - Series A

   15,400      205,898

E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.

   5,500      122,815

Ecolab, Inc.

   12,600      437,598

FMC Corp.

   11,400      491,796

Huabao International Holdings Ltd.

   367,700      302,407

Intrepid Potash, Inc.(g)

   4,525      83,486

LG Chem Ltd.

   3,700      234,205

Monsanto Co.

   2,325      193,208

Nihon Nohyaku Co. Ltd.

   21,500      148,719

Praxair, Inc.

   1,575      105,982

Rockwood Holdings, Inc.(g)

   1,800      14,292

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Co.—Class A

   4,275      148,342

Syngenta AG

   3,294      662,136

Terra Industries, Inc.

   1,725      48,455

Valspar Corp.

   1,925      38,442

Yara International ASA

   10,700      233,762

Zeon Corp.

   60,600      164,627
         
        4,351,514
         

Commercial Banks — 1.7%

     

Banco de Sabadell SA

   19,000      95,361

Banco Santander SA

   22,534      155,367

Bangkok Bank Public Co. Ltd.

   57,100      119,921

Bank of Hawaii Corp.

   7,650      252,297

The Bank of Kyoto Ltd.

   10,000      84,933

Chang Hwa Commercial Bank

   266,000      89,628

The Chiba Bank Ltd.

   21,900      109,161

China Construction Bank Corp. - Class H

   791,000      449,034

City National Corp.

   4,200      141,834

CoBiz Financial, Inc.

   17,235      90,484

Columbia Banking System, Inc.

   11,194      71,642

Commerce Bancshares, Inc.

   4,025      146,108

Credit Agricole SA

   50,255      554,494

Credito Emiliano SpA

   8,600      35,367

Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.

   4,225      198,322

CVB Financial Corp.(h)

   11,700      77,571

DBS Group Holdings Ltd.

   126,660      706,122

Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

   4,000      62,840

The Gunma Bank Ltd.

   25,000      136,033

HSBC Holdings Plc

   101,909      567,384

Itau UniBanco Banco Multiplo SA - ADR

   9,200      100,098

KeyCorp

   31,300      246,331

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc.

   95,100      185,708

National Bank of Canada

   3,600      114,956

PacWest Bancorp

   6,200      88,846

Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.

   4,500      123,075

Siam Commercial Bank Public Co. Ltd.

   78,400      120,442

Signature Bank(g)

   3,175      89,630

Standard Chartered Plc

   42,333      525,660

Trustmark Corp.

   1,200      22,056

U.S. Bancorp

   11,700      170,937

Union Bank of India

   55,900      162,046

Unione di Banche Italiane ScpA

   8,600      94,696

Valley National Bancorp

   10,525      130,194

Wells Fargo & Co.

   42,500      605,200

Westamerica Bancorp

   3,800      173,128

Wing Hang Bank Ltd.

   13,000      62,311

Wintrust Financial Corp.

   4,050      49,815

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    3


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Commercial Banks (concluded)

     

Zions Bancorp

   12,550    $ 123,367
         
        7,332,399
         

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.9%

     

Alexco Resource Corp.(g)

   12,122      16,056

Babcock International Group Plc

   76,500      470,604

The Brink’s Co.

   5,975      158,098

Clean Harbors, Inc.(g)

   4,100      196,800

Copart, Inc.(g)

   2,400      71,184

Corrections Corp. of America(g)

   18,600      238,266

De La Rue Plc

   7,800      108,619

De La Rue Plc—Preference Shares

   4,594      64,065

Deluxe Corp.

   2,675      25,760

G4S Plc

   59,400      165,051

The GEO Group, Inc.(g)

   17,000      225,250

Iron Mountain, Inc.(g)

   7,550      167,384

Loomis AB - Class B(g)

   24,300      187,733

Republic Services, Inc.

   26,362      452,108

RPS Group Plc

   76,100      170,080

Sykes Enterprises, Inc.(g)

   8,448      140,490

Team, Inc.(g)

   4,300      50,396

Tetra Tech, Inc.(g)

   6,800      138,584

Waste Connections, Inc.(g)

   1,000      25,700

Waste Management, Inc.

   26,075      667,520
         
        3,739,748
         

Communications Equipment — 1.4%

     

Arris Group, Inc.(g)

   23,500      173,195

Cisco Systems, Inc.(g)

   103,816      1,740,994

CommScope, Inc.(g)

   2,304      26,173

EMS Technologies, Inc.(g)

   19,525      340,907

GeoVision, Inc.

   22,500      87,726

Harris Corp.

   3,946      114,197

Neutral Tandem, Inc.(g)

   5,025      123,665

Nokia Oyj

   49,793      582,352

Polycom, Inc.(g)

   23,800      366,282

QUALCOMM, Inc.

   63,922      2,487,205
         
        6,042,696
         

Computers & Peripherals — 1.4%

     

Apple, Inc.(g)

   16,234      1,706,518

EMC Corp.(g)

   24,775      282,435

Hewlett-Packard Co.

   36,025      1,154,961

HTC Corp.

   7,670      94,441

International Business Machines Corp.

   20,625      1,998,356

Lexmark International, Inc. - Class A(g)

   1,450      24,462

NCR Corp.(g)

   1,400      11,130

QLogic Corp.(g)

   15,975      177,642

Sun Microsystems, Inc.(g)

   8,600      62,952

Teradata Corp.(g)

   8,340      135,275

Western Digital Corp.(g)

   19,671      380,437
         
        6,028,609
         

Construction & Engineering — 0.3%

     

Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. NV - ADR

   7,800      48,906

EMCOR Group, Inc.(g)

   1,900      32,623

Fluor Corp.

   16,000      552,800

Granite Construction, Inc.

   800      29,984

Quanta Services, Inc.(g)

   11,600      248,820

The Shaw Group, Inc.(g)

   700      19,187

United Group Ltd.

   53,741      344,064

URS Corp.(g)

   450      18,185
         
        1,294,569
         

Construction Materials — 0.0%

     

Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.

   175      13,877
         

Consumer Finance — 0.0%

     

Capital One Financial Corp.

   6,800      83,232
         

Containers & Packaging — 0.3%

     

AptarGroup, Inc.

   2,000      62,280

Ball Corp.

   3,500      151,900

Owens-Illinois, Inc.(g)

   11,920      172,125

Pactiv Corp.(g)

   17,475      254,960

Rock-Tenn Co. - Class A

   6,618      179,017

Silgan Holdings, Inc.

   6,450      338,883

Sonoco Products Co.

   11,050      231,829

Toyo Seikan Kaisha Ltd.

   9,000      132,848
         
        1,523,842
         

Distributors — 0.0%

     

Inchcape Plc

   82,400      89,336
         

Diversified Consumer Services — 0.3%

     

Apollo Group, Inc. - Class A(g)

   11,525      902,753

Benesse Corp.

   2,700      99,457

Career Education Corp.(g)

   1,875      44,925

DeVry, Inc.

   1,777      85,616

H&R Block, Inc.

   5,250      95,498

ITT Educational Services, Inc.(g)

   550      66,781
         
        1,295,030
         

Diversified Financial Services — 1.1%

     

Bank of America Corp.

   61,750      421,135

Citigroup, Inc.(h)

   46,850      118,531

CME Group, Inc.

   3,450      850,046

Deutsche Boerse AG

   2,100      125,992

Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd.

   13,600      128,349

Investor AB - B Shares

   29,815      377,018

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

   62,025      1,648,625

London Stock Exchange Group Plc

   6,200      50,130

MSCI, Inc. - Class A(g)

   19,375      327,631

The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.(g)

   9,350      183,073

NYSE Euronext, Inc.

   7,600      136,040

PHH Corp.(g)

   10,600      148,930

Pohjola Bank Plc

   12,800      75,251

Yuanta Financial Holding Co. Ltd.

   584,500      267,648
         
        4,858,399
         

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 1.1%

     

AT&T, Inc.

   62,099      1,564,895

Cable & Wireless Plc

   82,500      164,983

CenturyTel, Inc.

   6,575      184,889

Embarq Corp.

   3,600      136,260

France Telecom SA

   31,962      728,644

Iowa Telecommunications Services, Inc.

   9,200      105,432

Koninklijke KPN NV

   52,996      707,554

Tele Norte Leste Participacoes SA—ADR

   12,700      175,768

Telkom SA Ltd.

   10,500      116,986

Verizon Communications, Inc.

   33,344      1,006,989

Vimpel-Communications - ADR

   9,700      63,438
         
        4,955,838
         

Electric Utilities — 0.8%

     

American Electric Power Co., Inc.

   20,300      512,778

Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais - CEMIG - ADR

   15,353      226,917

DPL, Inc.

   2,050      46,207

E.ON AG

   19,551      542,231

 

4

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Electric Utilities (concluded)

     

Edison International

   7,010    $ 201,958

El Paso Electric Co.(g)

   10,300      145,127

Entergy Corp.

   6,410      436,457

IDACORP, Inc.

   1,600      37,376

Northeast Utilities

   9,500      205,105

NV Energy, Inc.

   25,075      235,454

Pinnacle West Capital Corp.

   13,775      365,864

Terna Rete Elettrica Nazionale SpA

   67,500      210,122

UIL Holdings Corp.

   4,600      102,672

Unisource Energy Corp.

   625      17,619

Westar Energy, Inc.

   7,400      129,722
         
        3,415,609
         

Electrical Equipment — 0.3%

     

A.O. Smith Corp.

   1,375      34,622

Alstom SA

   6,643      344,482

AMETEK, Inc.

   10,000      312,700

Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.(g)(h)

   3,925      52,085

ITM Power Plc(g)

   12,000      1,676

Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.(g)

   1,000      6,600

Panasonic Electric Works Co. Ltd.

   18,000      131,763

SGL Carbon AG(g)

   7,800      185,650

Thomas & Betts Corp.(g)

   775      19,390
         
        1,088,968
         

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.5%

     

Agilent Technologies, Inc.(g)

   9,190      141,250

Amphenol Corp. - Class A

   8,900      253,561

Anixter International, Inc.(g)

   4,529      143,479

Arrow Electronics, Inc.(g)

   13,850      263,981

AU Optronics Corp. - ADR

   12,500      104,875

Avnet, Inc.(g)

   2,250      39,397

Cogent, Inc.(g)

   8,125      96,687

Hosiden Corp.

   12,200      121,726

Ingram Micro, Inc. - Class A(g)

   1,900      24,016

Jabil Circuit, Inc.

   25,125      139,695

Nidec Corp.

   5,400      243,080

Rotork Plc

   26,700      326,056

Tech Data Corp.(g)

   9,990      217,582

TTM Technologies, Inc.(g)

   23,500      136,300
         
        2,251,685
         

Energy Equipment & Services — 1.3%

     

Allis-Chalmers Energy, Inc.(g)

   15,900      30,687

Baker Hughes, Inc.

   15,300      436,815

BJ Services Co.

   8,700      86,565

Complete Production Services, Inc.(g)

   900      2,772

ENSCO International, Inc.

   4,475      118,140

FMC Technologies, Inc.(g)

   925      29,017

Halliburton Co.

   22,730      351,633

Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc.(g)

   5,075      26,086

Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

   1,925      43,832

Hercules Offshore, Inc.(g)

   1,400      2,212

HSE Integrated Ltd.(g)

   561      156

John Wood Group Plc

   49,400      158,723

Key Energy Services, Inc.(g)

   10,800      31,104

Leader Energy Services Ltd.(g)

   15,957      506

Nabors Industries Ltd.(g)

   14,975      149,600

National Oilwell Varco, Inc.(g)

   899      25,810

Noble Corp.

   11,510      277,276

Precision Drilling Trust

   3,300      8,844

Saipem SpA

   7,600      135,227

Schlumberger Ltd.

   33,447      1,358,617

Smith International, Inc.

   13,400      287,832

Superior Energy Services, Inc.(g)

   9,905      127,675

Technicoil Corp.(g)

   46,400      11,041

Technip SA

   3,400      119,856

Tidewater, Inc.

   1,275      47,341

Transocean Ltd.(g)

   22,556      1,327,195

Unit Corp.(g)

   1,475      30,857

Weatherford International Ltd.(g)

   26,200      290,034

WorleyParsons Ltd.

   10,600      133,585
         
        5,649,038
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.3%

     

BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc.(g)

   5,575      178,344

Carrefour SA

   13,233      516,220

CVS Caremark Corp.

   14,325      393,794

The Kroger Co.

   22,400      475,328

Ruddick Corp.

   5,710      128,190

Safeway, Inc.

   31,980      645,676

Shoppers Drug Mart Corp.

   4,800      165,000

SUPERVALU, Inc.

   16,375      233,835

Tesco Plc

   162,999      778,766

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

   45,586      2,375,031
         
        5,890,184
         

Food Products — 1.0%

     

American Italian Pasta Co. - Class A(g)

   1,000      34,810

Archer-Daniels-Midland Co.

   12,250      340,305

Barry Callebaut AG(g)

   200      91,353

Cadbury Plc

   21,200      159,911

Campbell Soup Co.

   7,000      191,520

ConAgra Foods, Inc.

   18,000      303,660

Dean Foods Co.(g)

   17,760      321,101

Del Monte Foods Co.

   24,396      177,847

Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc.(g)

   7,800      128,076

Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, Inc.(g)

   1,000      48,000

The Hershey Co.

   3,550      123,362

The J.M. Smucker Co.

   7,600      283,252

Kraft Foods, Inc. - Class A

   2,726      60,763

Nestle SA

   37,015      1,250,528

Nong Shim Co. Ltd.

   1,800      280,479

Nutreco Holding NV

   5,200      186,189

Parmalat SpA

   73,200      150,702

Ralcorp Holdings, Inc.(g)

   950      51,186

Smart Balance, Inc.(g)

   5,600      33,824

Toyo Suisan Kaisha Ltd.

   7,900      163,006

Viscofan SA

   10,300      200,130
         
        4,580,004
         

Gas Utilities — 0.3%

     

Atmos Energy Corp.

   5,725      132,362

CMS Energy Corp.

   22,400      265,216

EQT Corp.

   11,170      349,956

Questar Corp.

   8,280      243,680

Snam Rete Gas SpA

   24,800      133,068

UGI Corp.

   7,950      187,700
         
        1,311,982
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.9%

     

Baxter International, Inc.

   3,725      190,795

Beckman Coulter, Inc.

   675      34,432

Becton, Dickinson & Co.

   2,375      159,695

C.R. Bard, Inc.

   4,550      362,726

Cie Generale d’Optique Essilor International SA

   13,095      505,959

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    5


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Health Care Equipment & Supplies (concluded)

     

The Cooper Cos., Inc.

   12,373    $ 327,142

Covidien Ltd.

   4,850      161,214

DiaSorin SpA

   6,900      154,325

Edwards Lifesciences Corp.(g)

   750      45,473

Hologic, Inc.(g)

   37,050      484,984

Immucor, Inc.(g)

   4,630      116,444

Kinetic Concepts, Inc.(g)

   7,725      163,152

Masimo Corp.(g)

   1,300      37,674

Merit Medical Systems, Inc.(g)

   6,725      82,112

NuVasive, Inc.(g)

   700      21,966

ResMed, Inc.(g)

   5,400      190,836

ResMed, Inc. - ADR(g)

   21,500      79,235

Smith & Nephew Plc

   12,100      75,315

SonoSite, Inc.(g)

   5,225      93,423

Sonova Holding AG

   3,400      205,207

St. Jude Medical, Inc.(g)

   3,900      141,687

STERIS Corp.

   2,050      47,724

Symmetry Medical, Inc.(g)

   10,725      67,675

Teleflex, Inc.

   3,575      139,747

Thoratec Corp.(g)

   1,200      30,828

Wright Medical Group, Inc.(g)

   6,605      86,063

Zoll Medical Corp.(g)

   7,250      104,110
         
        4,109,943
         

Health Care Providers & Services — 1.5%

     

Aetna, Inc.

   12,200      296,826

Amedisys, Inc.(g)

   2,700      74,223

AmerisourceBergen Corp.

   4,600      150,236

Centene Corp.(g)

   6,400      115,328

CIGNA Corp.

   13,825      243,182

DaVita, Inc.(g)

   2,300      101,085

Express Scripts, Inc.(g)

   3,550      163,904

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA

   5,400      209,545

HealthSouth Corp.(g)

   11,900      105,672

Henry Schein, Inc.(g)

   11,700      468,117

HMS Holdings Corp.(g)

   7,425      244,282

IPC The Hospitalist Co., Inc.(g)

   6,300      119,889

Kindred Healthcare, Inc.(g)

   1,375      20,556

Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings(g)

   6,080      355,619

LifePoint Hospitals, Inc.(g)

   2,175      45,371

Lincare Holdings, Inc.(g)

   9,500      207,100

Magellan Health Services, Inc.(g)

   13,000      473,720

Medco Health Solutions, Inc.(g)

   24,670      1,019,858

MEDNAX, Inc.(g)

   25,530      752,369

MWI Veterinary Supply, Inc.(g)

   6,247      177,915

Omnicare, Inc.

   1,450      35,510

PharMerica Corp.(g)

   8,800      146,432

Rhoen Klinikum AG

   15,000      278,196

Sun Healthcare Group, Inc.(g)

   16,800      141,792

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

   22,775      476,681

Universal Health Services, Inc. - Class B

   625      23,962

VCA Antech, Inc.(g)

   2,900      65,395

WellPoint, Inc.(g)

   3,400      129,098
         
        6,641,863
         

Health Care Technology — 0.1%

     

MedAssets, Inc.(g)

   6,200      88,350

Omnicell, Inc.(g)

   8,200      64,124

Phase Forward, Inc.(g)

   10,600      135,574
         
        288,048
         

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.1%

     

Brinker International, Inc.

   4,200      63,420

Burger King Holdings, Inc.

   42,700      979,965

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

   11,800      404,268

Domino’s Pizza UK & IRL Plc

   50,200      161,639

Greene King Plc

   12,000      84,155

InterContinental Hotels Group Plc

   19,718      149,606

Intralot SA

   13,000      64,095

McDonald’s Corp.

   25,600      1,396,992

P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Inc.(g)

   2,825      64,636

Panera Bread Co. - Class A(g)(h)

   2,700      150,930

Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc.(g)

   14,110      99,334

REXLot Holdings Ltd.(g)

   1,361,400      43,035

Scientific Games Corp. - Class A(g)

   29,950      362,694

Sodexo

   4,800      218,640

Sonic Corp.(g)

   5,900      59,118

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

   23,550      299,085

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. - Class A(g)

   4,950      47,174

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc. - Class A

   19,000      95,570

William Hill Plc

   55,900      136,292

WMS Industries, Inc.(g)

   800      16,728
         
        4,897,376
         

Household Durables — 0.3%

     

Bellway Plc

   7,800      75,633

Centex Corp.

   20,500      153,750

D.R. Horton, Inc.

   43,500      421,950

iRobot Corp.(g)

   8,074      61,362

KB Home

   12,525      165,080

Newell Rubbermaid, Inc.

   30,150      192,357

NVR, Inc.(g)

   475      203,181

Persimmon Plc

   15,600      77,109

The Stanley Works

   3,950      115,024

Toll Brothers, Inc.(g)

   650      11,804
         
        1,477,250
         

Household Products — 0.5%

     

Church & Dwight Co., Inc.

   9,650      504,020

Clorox Co.

   7,100      365,508

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

   1,900      112,062

Energizer Holdings, Inc.(g)

   600      29,814

The Procter & Gamble Co.

   24,905      1,172,776
         
        2,184,180
         

Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders — 0.1%

     

International Power Plc

   48,200      145,563

NRG Energy, Inc.(g)

   13,760      242,176
         
        387,739
         

Industrial Conglomerates — 0.6%

     

3M Co.

   11,900      591,668

Cookson Group Plc

   766,000      178,706

General Electric Co.

   106,375      1,075,451

Hutchison Whampoa Ltd.

   97,000      476,180

Keppel Corp. Ltd.

   134,000      442,717
         
        2,764,722
         

Insurance — 1.8%

     

ACE Ltd.

   8,025      324,210

AFLAC, Inc.

   6,000      116,160

Allianz SE

   7,310      611,867

American Financial Group, Inc.

   2,550      40,928

Amlin Plc

   11,600      57,172

AON Corp.

   7,000      285,740

Arch Capital Group Ltd.(g)

   2,525      135,996

 

6

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Insurance (concluded)

     

Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.

   13,900    $ 312,194

AXIS Capital Holdings Ltd.

   12,460      280,848

Baloise Holding AG

   1,000      63,912

Brit Insurance Holdings Plc

   46,300      119,713

Catlin Group Ltd.

   21,420      96,070

CHUBB Corp.

   7,325      309,994

Everest Re Group Ltd.

   675      47,790

Fidelity National Financial, Inc. - Class A

   2,925      57,067

First American Corp.

   6,900      182,919

First Mercury Financial Corp.(g)

   5,300      76,532

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.

   9,387      270,533

HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc.

   12,710      320,165

Hiscox Ltd.

   39,900      176,541

Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group Plc

   9,300      58,414

Lancashire Holdings Ltd.(g)

   25,800      177,246

MBIA, Inc.(g)

   15,825      72,478

PartnerRe Ltd.

   3,400      211,038

Platinum Underwriters Holdings Ltd.

   6,441      182,667

Prudential Plc

   109,614      531,397

Reinsurance Group of America, Inc.

   1,050      34,010

RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd.

   4,600      227,424

Standard Life Plc

   20,000      47,631

T&D Holdings, Inc.

   12,350      300,780

The Travelers Cos., Inc.

   33,775      1,372,616

Unum Group

   17,275      215,938

W.R. Berkley Corp.

   17,740      400,037
         
        7,718,027
         

Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.3%

     

Amazon.com, Inc.(g)

   14,150      1,039,176

NetFlix, Inc.(g)(h)

   1,100      47,212

priceline.com, Inc.(g)

   2,500      196,950

Ticketmaster Entertainment, Inc.(g)

   8,420      31,070
         
        1,314,408
         

Internet Software & Services — 0.7%

     

comScore, Inc.(g)

   8,831      106,767

eBay, Inc.(g)

   20,100      252,456

Google, Inc. - Class A(g)

   4,722      1,643,539

Omniture, Inc.(g)

   6,960      91,803

Sina Corp.(g)

   5,500      127,875

SkillSoft Plc - ADR(g)

   70,290      470,240

SonicWALL, Inc.(g)

   29,300      130,678

Tencent Holdings Ltd.

   46,800      346,301

Yahoo!, Inc.(g)

   4,500      57,645
         
        3,227,304
         

IT Services — 0.6%

     

Accenture Ltd. - Class A

   13,300      365,617

Affiliated Computer Services, Inc. - Class A(g)

   3,925      187,968

Alliance Data Systems Corp.(g)

   1,125      41,569

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.

   3,025      56,295

Convergys Corp.(g)

   14,100      113,928

CSG Systems International, Inc.(g)

   1,500      21,420

ExlService Holdings, Inc.(g)

   16,098      138,765

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

   14,300      260,260

Forrester Research, Inc.(g)

   9,950      204,572

Genpact Ltd.(g)

   23,300      206,438

Hewitt Associates, Inc. - Class A(g)

   1,500      44,640

Lender Processing Services, Inc.

   10,275      314,518

Mantech International Corp. - Class A(g)

   850      35,615

Mastercard, Inc. - Class A

   675      113,049

NCI, Inc. - Class A(g)

   5,700      148,200

SAIC, Inc.(g)

   6,600      123,222

SRA International, Inc. - Class A(g)

   8,350      122,745

TeleTech Holdings, Inc.(g)

   10,550      114,890

Wright Express Corp.(g)

   5,875      107,042
         
        2,720,753
         

Leisure Equipment & Products — 0.1%

     

Hasbro, Inc.

   725      18,176

JUMBO SA

   18,400      139,359

Polaris Industries, Inc.

   1,150      24,656

Shimano, Inc.

   4,900      149,178
         
        331,369
         

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.3%

     

ICON Plc - ADR(g)

   6,000      96,900

Lonza Group AG(g)

   1,700      167,963

Qiagen NV(g)

   18,000      286,679

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.(g)

   22,950      818,627
         
        1,370,169
         

Machinery — 1.4%

     

Actuant Corp. - Class A

   2,700      27,891

AGCO Corp.(g)

   3,700      72,520

Altra Holdings, Inc.(g)

   10,700      41,516

Amada Co. Ltd.

   35,100      187,533

Briggs & Stratton Corp.

   2,375      39,187

Bucyrus International, Inc.

   2,540      38,557

Charter International Plc

   25,300      165,368

Cummins, Inc.

   20,600      524,270

Danaher Corp.

   28,500      1,545,270

Deere & Co.

   14,900      489,763

Eaton Corp.

   3,000      110,580

Federal Signal Corp.

   3,375      17,786

Flowserve Corp.

   3,625      203,435

Gardner Denver, Inc.(g)

   2,025      44,024

GEA Group AG

   23,600      251,212

Harsco Corp.

   1,875      41,569

Hino Motors Ltd.

   60,900      134,311

IDEX Corp.

   11,475      250,958

Joy Global, Inc.

   12,050      256,665

Kaydon Corp.

   3,025      82,673

MAN AG

   5,500      238,739

Mori Seiki Co. Ltd.

   15,400      141,106

Nabtesco Corp.

   18,900      132,274

Navistar International Corp.(g)

   4,050      135,513

Oshkosh Corp.

   9,900      66,726

Parker Hannifin Corp.

   7,925      269,292

Railpower Technologies Corp.(g)

   17,600      1,187

SPX Corp.

   2,350      110,473

Terex Corp.(g)

   6,990      64,658

Trinity Industries, Inc.

   1,950      17,823

Volvo AB - B Shares

   23,000      122,044

The Weir Group Plc

   36,600      217,126
         
        6,042,049
         

Media — 1.1%

     

Cablevision Systems Corp. - Class A

   17,600      227,744

CKX, Inc.(g)

   60,550      248,255

Comcast Corp. - Class A

   23,825      324,973

The DIRECTV Group, Inc.(g)

   16,550      377,174

Dolan Media Co.(g)

   7,162      56,365

DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. - Class A(g)

   13,250      286,730

Naspers Ltd. - N Shares

   12,100      204,739

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    7


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Media (concluded)

     

Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc.(g)

   2,666    $ 18,182

Reed Elsevier NV

   59,976      641,795

RHI Entertainment, Inc.(g)

   14,626      22,231

SES SA

   49,210      936,858

Time Warner Cable, Inc.

   4,214      104,507

Time Warner, Inc.

   16,782      323,893

Viacom, Inc. - Class B(g)

   13,450      233,761

The Walt Disney Co.

   6,200      112,592

Wolters Kluwer NV

   9,600      155,613

Woongjin Thinkbig Co. Ltd.

   17,370      230,093

WPP Plc

   19,200      107,977

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.

   32,800      68,932
         
        4,682,414
         

Metals & Mining — 1.6%

     

Agnico-Eagle Mines Ltd.

   15,600      890,749

Anglo American Plc

   22,594      384,744

Archipelago Resources Plc(g)

   78,900      12,736

Baja Mining Corp.(g)

   59,300      16,697

BHP Billiton Ltd.

   30,636      677,094

Century Aluminum Co.(g)

   9,734      20,539

Cliffs Natural Resources, Inc.

   2,600      47,216

Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp.(g)

   10,900      1,340

Eldorado Gold Corp.(g)

   43,162      390,265

Eldorado Gold Corp., Exchange Receipts (acquired 7/14/08, cost $0, unrestricted issue on 7/14/08 was valued at $8.72 per share)(g)(i)

   79,200      0

Epsilon Energy, Inc.(b)

   5,900      2,667

European Goldfields Ltd.(g)

   12,100      32,150

Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, Inc. - Class B

   20,457      779,616

Gerdau SA - ADR

   27,800      152,066

Gold Reserve, Inc.(g)

   26,280      17,608

Kinross Gold Corp.

   28,735      515,451

Minefinders Corp. Ltd.(g)(h)

   40,000      308,000

Mitsubishi Materials Corp.

   49,300      134,293

Newmont Mining Corp.

   1,675      74,973

Norsk Hydro ASA

   49,700      187,015

Nucor Corp.

   1,800      68,706

Outokumpu Oyj - Series B

   12,200      131,998

Pacific Metals Co. Ltd.

   31,000      137,579

Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co.

   5,290      139,286

Salzgitter AG

   1,800      100,182

Sunridge Gold Corp.(g)

   146,757      24,444

Teck Cominco Ltd. - Class B

   30,601      171,111

ThyssenKrupp AG

   16,400      286,120

Tokyo Steel Manufacturing Co. Ltd.

   12,100      121,956

United States Steel Corp.

   2,825      59,692

Usinas Siderurgicas de Minas Gerais SA, Class A - Preference Shares

   5,900      74,852

Vedanta Resources Plc

   13,700      132,820

West Timmins Mining, Inc.(g)

   36,372      17,886

Yamana Gold, Inc.

   45,600      425,692

Yamato Kogyo Co. Ltd.

   13,200      285,009
         
        6,822,552
         

Multiline Retail — 0.6%

     

Dollar Tree, Inc.(g)

   1,500      66,825

Family Dollar Stores, Inc.

   9,925      331,197

Kohl’s Corp.(g)

   34,302      1,451,661

Macy’s, Inc.

   36,650      326,185

Next Plc

   11,300      214,431

PPR

   1,700      108,988
         
        2,499,287
         

Multi-Utilities — 0.5%

     

Ameren Corp.

   17,225      399,448

CenterPoint Energy, Inc.

   4,050      42,241

DTE Energy Co.

   4,475      123,957

NSTAR

   1,925      61,369

OGE Energy Corp.

   1,600      38,112

PG&E Corp.

   20,500      783,510

Sempra Energy

   9,150      423,096

Vectren Corp.

   1,700      35,853

Wisconsin Energy Corp.

   6,780      279,133
         
        2,186,719
         

Office Electronics — 0.2%

     

Canon, Inc.

   26,600      775,439

Xerox Corp.

   15,050      68,477
         
        843,916
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 5.4%

     

Addax Petroleum Corp.

   4,300      93,108

Alberta Clipper Energy, Inc.(g)

   5,027      1,994

American Oil & Gas, Inc.(g)

   5,947      4,579

Apache Corp.

   3,400      217,906

Approach Resources, Inc.(g)

   1,700      10,540

Arch Coal, Inc.

   31,700      423,829

Argosy Energy, Inc.(g)

   1,240      1,328

ATP Oil & Gas Corp.(g)

   4,300      22,059

Banpu Public Co. Ltd.

   20,500      123,814

Bayou Bend Petroleum Ltd.(g)

   40,700      5,811

Berry Petroleum Co. - Class A

   2,700      29,592

BG Group Plc

   54,597      823,563

Canadian Superior Energy, Inc.(g)

   57,300      26,785

Canext Energy Ltd.(g)

   4,020      1,020

Chesapeake Energy Corp.

   25,325      432,044

Chevron Corp.

   23,675      1,591,907

Cimarex Energy Co.

   1,325      24,353

Cinch Energy Corp.(g)

   40,320      17,589

Clayton Williams Energy, Inc.(g)

   19,123      559,157

Compton Petroleum Corp.(g)

   3,800      2,471

Comstock Resources, Inc.(g)

   3,783      112,733

ConocoPhillips

   14,975      586,421

CONSOL Energy, Inc.

   37,564      948,115

Crescent Point Energy Trust

   1,800      37,633

Crew Energy, Inc.(g)

   39,700      123,118

Dana Petroleum Plc(g)

   7,700      122,938

Daylight Resources Trust

   13,410      72,432

Delphi Energy Corp.(g)

   24,700      16,064

Delta Petroleum Corp.(g)

   45,255      54,306

Denbury Resources, Inc.(g)

   1,150      17,089

Ember Resources, Inc.(g)

   4,855      1,925

Energy XXI Bermuda Ltd.

   13,100      4,912

EOG Resources, Inc.

   7,400      405,224

Evergreen Energy, Inc.(g)

   11,500      16,008

EXCO Resources, Inc.(g)

   27,600      276,000

Exxon Mobil Corp.

   59,800      4,072,380

Fairborne Energy Ltd.(g)

   1,482      3,538

Felix Resources Ltd.

   24,300      148,844

Foundation Coal Holdings, Inc.

   3,300      47,355

Galleon Energy, Inc. - Class A(g)

   78,617      225,101

Gasco Energy, Inc.(g)

   19,600      7,644

Gastar Exploration Ltd.(g)

   15,900      8,586

GMX Resources, Inc.(g)

   4,612      29,978

Goodrich Petroleum Corp.(g)

   18,400      356,224

Gulfsands Petroleum Plc(g)

   6,700      15,290

Heritage Oil Ltd.(g)

   40,000      189,778

 

8

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels (concluded)

     

Hess Corp.

   2,630    $ 142,546

Highpine Oil & Gas Ltd.(g)

   8,993      33,381

Iteration Energy Ltd.(g)

   4,021      3,125

James River Coal Co.(g)

   12,400      153,016

Longview Energy Co. (acquired 8/13/04, cost $48,000)(g)(i)

   3,200      58,720

Lynden Energy Corp.(g)

   3,500      833

Marathon Oil Corp.

   21,351      561,318

Massey Energy Co.

   70,941      717,923

Matador Resources Co. (acquired 10/14/03 through 4/13/06, cost $62,950)(g)(i)

   8,685      117,161

Midnight Oil Exploration Ltd.(g)

   81,200      51,523

Newfield Exploration Co.(g)

   10,985      249,359

Niko Resources Ltd.

   2,000      93,084

Occidental Petroleum Corp.

   2,850      158,602

Oil Search Ltd.

   34,800      127,859

OMV AG

   6,600      220,797

Open Range Energy Corp.(g)

   1,975      1,911

Pacific Rodera Energy, Inc.(g)

   37,300      6,065

Pacific Rubiales Energy Corp.(g)

   12,466      48,349

Pan Orient Energy Corp.(g)

   3,600      11,564

Parallel Petroleum Corp.(g)

   4,879      6,245

Patriot Coal Corp.(g)

   2,798      10,381

Peabody Energy Corp.

   26,498      663,510

Pengrowth Energy Trust

   2,877      16,201

Penn Virginia Corp.

   38,200      419,436

Penn West Energy Trust

   10,319      97,232

Petro Andina Resources, Inc. - Class A(g)

   800      3,687

Petro-Canada

   5,300      142,379

PetroHawk Energy Corp.(g)

   47,400      911,502

Petroleo Brasileiro SA - ADR

   37,376      1,138,847

Petroleum Development Corp.(g)

   5,100      60,231

Petrolifera Petroleum Ltd.(g)

   30,150      38,261

Plains Exploration & Production Co.(g)

   50,825      875,715

Premier Oil Plc(g)

   8,600      131,013

ProspEx Resources Ltd.(g)

   43,140      15,055

Quest Resource Corp.(g)

   2,500      782

Quicksilver Resources, Inc.(g)

   10,200      56,508

Range Resources Corp.

   10,300      423,948

Rex Energy Corp.(g)

   9,100      26,117

Santos Ltd.

   13,900      163,602

Southern Union Co.

   11,050      168,181

Southwestern Energy Co.(g)

   10,945      324,957

StatoilHydro ASA

   31,034      543,117

Stone Energy Corp.(g)

   561      1,868

Tag Oil Ltd.

   800      101

Talisman Energy, Inc.

   19,200      203,299

Tesoro Corp.

   1,150      15,490

Total SA

   16,079      795,099

Trafalgar Energy Ltd.(g)

   841      387

TransCanada Corp.

   700      16,562

Triex Minerals Corp.(g)

   9,900      1,296

TriStar Oil & Gas Ltd.(g)

   12,585      92,132

True Energy Trust

   11,382      6,139

Tullow Oil Plc

   32,343      371,865

Ultra Petroleum Corp.(g)

   2,400      86,136

Uranium One, Inc.(g)

   25,970      52,525

Valero Energy Corp.

   26,700      477,930

Vero Energy, Inc.(g)

   4,447      11,569

Warren Resources, Inc.(g)

   4,034      3,873

West Energy Ltd.(g)

   9,543      16,652

WesternZagros Resources Ltd.(g)

   1,800      828

Whiting Petroleum Corp.(g)

   4,400      113,740

The Williams Cos., Inc.

   8,200    93,316
       
      23,667,935
       

Paper & Forest Products — 0.1%

     

Ainsworth Lumber Co. Ltd. (Canada)(b)(g)

   36,747    22,442

Clearwater Paper Corp.(g)

   0    0

International Paper Co.

   8,175    57,552

Weyerhaeuser Co.

   7,950    219,182
       
      299,176
       

Personal Products — 0.1%

     

Avon Products, Inc.

   4,500    86,535

Chattem, Inc.(g)

   5,198    291,348
       
      377,883
       

Pharmaceuticals — 2.7%

     

Abbott Laboratories

   37,425    1,785,173

Bayer AG

   12,051    575,756

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

   15,525    340,308

Eli Lilly & Co.

   21,625    722,491

GlaxoSmithKline Plc

   42,907    668,261

Johnson & Johnson

   31,200    1,641,120

King Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(g)

   4,875    34,466

Medicis Pharmaceutical Corp. - Class A

   14,500    179,365

Merck & Co., Inc.

   3,900    104,325

Mylan, Inc.(g)

   10,700    143,487

Novartis AG

   26,232    992,450

Pfizer, Inc.

   66,750    909,135

Roche Holding AG - ADR

   7,893    1,083,315

Santarus, Inc.(g)

   23,450    37,755

Schering-Plough Corp.

   41,325    973,204

Seperacor, Inc.(g)

   1,000    14,660

Shire Plc - ADR

   6,350    228,219

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. - ADR

   18,000    810,900

Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(g)

   850    26,444

Wyeth

   13,875    597,180
       
      11,868,014
       

Professional Services — 0.1%

     

The Advisory Board Co.(g)

   3,525    58,444

Diamond Management & Technology Consultants, Inc.

   19,294    49,200

Huron Consulting Group, Inc.(g)

   2,600    110,318

IHS, Inc. - Class A(g)

   7,125    293,408

TrueBlue, Inc.(g)

   2,200    18,150

Watson Wyatt Worldwide, Inc. - Class A

   1,600    78,992
       
      608,512
       

Real Estate Investment Trusts — 0.6%

     

Annaly Capital Management, Inc.

   15,175    210,477

Boston Properties, Inc.

   5,010    175,500

CFS Retail Property Trust

   33,000    37,495

Corio NV

   1,300    53,765

Digital Realty Trust, Inc.

   2,900    96,222

Eurocommercial Properties NV

   2,000    54,309

Fonciere Des Regions

   500    23,476

Hammerson Plc

   5,600    20,432

Highwoods Properties, Inc.

   1,150    24,633

Home Properties, Inc.

   2,500    76,625

Hospitality Properties Trust

   10,875    130,500

HRPT Properties Trust

   36,100    115,159

Liberty Property Trust

   7,100    134,474

The Macerich Co.(h)

   1,975    12,364

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    9


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Real Estate Investment Trusts (concluded)

     

Mack-Cali Realty Corp.

   12,675    $ 251,092

Mercialys SA

   2,200      63,674

MFA Mortgage Investments, Inc.

   10,200      59,976

Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc.

   3,600      110,988

Nationwide Health Properties, Inc.

   1,775      39,387

Omega Healthcare Investors, Inc.

   2,625      36,960

Realty Income Corp.

   1,175      22,114

Redwood Trust, Inc.

   21,100      323,885

Segro Plc

   7,500      2,445

Simon Property Group, Inc.

   5,980      207,147

SL Green Realty Corp.

   1,000      10,800

Societe Immobiliere de Location pour l’Industrie et le Commerce

   300      22,483

Suntec Real Estate Investment Trust

   92,900      38,505

Unibail-Rodamco

   1,700      240,562

Wereldhave NV

   500      34,960
         
        2,630,409
         

Real Estate Management & Development — 0.3%

     

Agile Property Holdings Ltd.

   109,900      62,318

Castellum AB

   5,700      32,037

Guangzhou R&F Properties Co. Ltd. - H Shares(g)

   67,300      78,131

Henderson Land Development Co. Ltd.

   145,000      552,911

New World Development Co. Ltd.

   159,500      159,218

PSP Swiss Property AG(g)

   1,500      63,237

Sino-Ocean Land Holdings Ltd.

   126,000      82,906

Tokyo Tatemono Co. Ltd.

   17,000      44,127

Wheelock & Co. Ltd.

   88,600      149,010
         
        1,223,895
         

Road & Rail — 0.5%

     

East Japan Railway Co.

   8,800      458,781

Firstgroup Plc

   60,100      230,559

Heartland Express, Inc.

   2,350      34,804

J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc.

   9,025      217,593

Landstar System, Inc.

   3,400      113,798

Nippon Express Co. Ltd.

   34,900      109,985

Norfolk Southern Corp.

   11,875      400,781

Ryder System, Inc.

   3,750      106,162

Seino Holdings Corp.

   52,000      251,510

Union Pacific Corp.

   3,900      160,329

Vitran Corp., Inc.(g)

   1,807      9,505
         
        2,093,807
         

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 1.4%

     

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.(g)

   10,400      78,312

Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc.

   189,100      92,271

ASML Holding NV

   5,400      94,554

Broadcom Corp. - Class A(g)

   55,400      1,106,892

Cymer, Inc.(g)

   6,700      149,142

Disco Corp.

   3,200      79,882

FEI Co.(g)

   2,700      41,661

Hittite Microwave Corp.(g)

   3,230      100,776

Integrated Device Technology, Inc.(g)

   4,050      18,428

Intel Corp.

   21,650      325,832

Intersil Corp. - Class A

   12,260      140,990

Lam Research Corp.(g)

   35,282      803,371

Micron Technology, Inc.(g)

   38,430      156,026

Microsemi Corp.(g)

   5,925      68,730

Monolithic Power Systems, Inc.(g)

   4,000      62,000

NVIDIA Corp.(g)

   52,700      519,622

ON Semiconductor Corp.(g)

   53,700      209,430

PMC-Sierra, Inc.(g)

   170,320      1,086,642

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

   1,007      416,049

Silicon Laboratories, Inc.(g)

   1,500      39,600

Siliconware Precision Industries Co. - ADR

   29,000      168,200

Skyworks Solutions, Inc.(g)

   2,625      21,158

Standard Microsystems Corp.(g)

   2,350      43,710

STMicroelectronics NV

   18,300      90,768

Ultra Clean Holdings, Inc.(g)

   6,704      7,173

United Microelectronics Corp.

   249,400      81,411

Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc.(g)

   9,500      205,770
         
        6,208,400
         
Software — 2.2%      

Activision Blizzard, Inc.(g)

   87,700      917,342

Adobe Systems, Inc.(g)

   22,908      490,002

Amdocs Ltd.(g)

   25,067      464,241

Ansys, Inc.(g)

   2,600      65,260

Blackboard, Inc.(g)

   8,752      277,788

BMC Software, Inc.(g)

   1,450      47,850

CA, Inc.

   6,500      114,465

Check Point Software Technologies(g)

   33,200      737,372

DemandTec, Inc.(g)

   26,700      233,625

i2 Technologies, Inc.(g)

   12,625      99,738

Intuit, Inc.(g)

   8,250      222,750

Lawson Software, Inc.(g)

   19,700      83,725

Micro Focus International Plc

   46,700      202,086

Microsoft Corp.

   88,625      1,628,041

Nintendo Co. Ltd.

   2,500      731,330

Oracle Corp.

   91,950      1,661,536

Parametric Technology Corp.(g)

   1,875      18,713

Phase Metrics, Inc.(g)

   50,574      1,011

Salesforce.com, Inc.(g)

   25,469      833,600

Sybase, Inc.(g)

   2,400      72,696

Symantec Corp.(g)

   20,650      308,511

Synopsys, Inc.(g)

   1,675      34,723

TiVo, Inc.(g)

   24,725      174,064
         
        9,420,469
         
Specialty Retail — 1.3%      

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. - Class A

   5,600      133,280

Advance Auto Parts, Inc.

   1,450      59,566

Aeropostale, Inc.(g)

   2,125      56,440

AutoZone, Inc.(g)

   1,250      203,275

Bebe Stores, Inc.

   11,700      78,039

Bed Bath & Beyond, Inc.(g)

   6,300      155,925

CarMax, Inc.(g)(h)

   52,400      651,856

Chico’s FAS, Inc.(g)

   13,500      72,495

Esprit Holdings Ltd.

   88,900      453,599

Foot Locker, Inc.

   3,050      31,964

GameStop Corp. - Class A(g)

   9,650      270,393

The Gap, Inc.

   20,700      268,893

Geo Corp.

   100      57,990

Guess?, Inc.

   2,125      44,795

The Home Depot, Inc.

   37,250      877,610

J. Crew Group, Inc.(g)(h)

   13,300      175,294

Limited Brands, Inc.

   26,000      226,200

Lowe’s Cos., Inc.

   9,825      179,306

PetSmart, Inc.

   950      19,912

Rent-A-Center, Inc.(g)

   7,625      147,696

Ross Stores, Inc.

   24,529      880,101

Sally Beauty Holdings, Inc.(g)

   27,435      155,831

The Sherwin-Williams Co.

   4,090      212,557

 

10

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Shares    Value

Common Stocks

     

Specialty Retail (concluded)

     

Shimachu Co. Ltd.

     9,800    $ 166,201

TJX Cos., Inc.

     6,900      176,916
         
        5,756,134
         
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 0.4%      

Adidas AG

     6,000      199,136

Anta Sports Products Ltd.

     509,100      335,755

ASICS Corp.

     25,800      180,036

Benetton Group SpA

     25,400      165,384

Carter’s, Inc.(g)

     8,300      156,123

Gerry Weber International AG

     8,310      169,843

Hanesbrands, Inc.(g)

     2      19

Iconix Brand Group, Inc.(g)

     12,600      111,510

Lululemon Athletica, Inc.(g)

     12,775      110,631

Movado Group, Inc.

     14,300      107,822
         
        1,536,259
         
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance — 0.1%      

Astoria Financial Corp.

     13,540      124,433

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc.

     9,700      105,730

Hudson City Bancorp, Inc.

     18,475      215,973

New York Community Bancorp, Inc.

     3,725      41,608

People’s United Financial, Inc.

     6,050      108,718
         
        596,462
         
Tobacco — 0.4%      

Altria Group, Inc.

     24,850      398,097

Lorillard, Inc.

     3,100      191,394

Philip Morris International, Inc.

     32,526      1,157,275
         
        1,746,766
         
Trading Companies & Distributors — 0.2%      

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.

     3,000      50,610

Marubeni Corp.

     68,000      214,168

Mitsui & Co. Ltd.

     62,000      631,612

W.W. Grainger, Inc.

     1,914      134,325

WESCO International, Inc.(g)

     2,200      39,864
         
        1,070,579
         
Transportation Infrastructure — 0.1%      

COSCO Pacific Ltd.

     239,000      235,362

Kamigumi Co. Ltd.

     34,900      232,342
         
        467,704
         
Water Utilities — 0.0%      

Guangdong Investment Ltd.

     508,900      205,165
         
Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.9%      

American Tower Corp. - Class A(g)

     45,350      1,380,000

KDDI Corp.

     135      635,734

MetroPCS Communications, Inc.(g)

     15,600      266,448

MTN Group Ltd.

     28,657      317,964

Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. - ADR

     4,500      198,585

Sprint Nextel Corp.(g)

     29,550      105,493

Vodafone Group Plc

     566,949      988,447
         
        3,892,671
         
Total Common Stocks — 50.8%         222,436,596
         
      Par
(000)
    

Corporate Bonds

     

Aerospace & Defense — 0.0%

     

L-3 Communications Corp., Senior Subordinated Notes,

     

6.38%, 10/15/15

   $ 35      32,987
         
Air Freight & Logistics — 0.3%      

United Parcel Service, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

3.88%, 4/01/14

     1,225      1,227,998
         
Auto Components — 0.0%      

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Unsecured Notes,

     

8.63%, 12/01/11

     125      103,750

Lear Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.75%, 12/01/16

     90      18,450
         
        122,200
         
Capital Markets — 0.7%      

BP Capital Markets Plc (United Kingdom), Unsecured Notes,

     

3.13%, 3/10/12(d)

     775      778,191

Eksportfinans A/S (Norway), Unsecured Notes,

     

5.50%, 5/25/16(d)

     575      615,529

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Unsecured Notes,

     

5.25%, 10/15/13

     785      733,029

Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., Senior Notes,

     

5.63%, 1/24/13(f)

     320      38,400

Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.00%, 9/27/27(f)

     475      60,562

Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., Subordinated Notes,

     

6.75%, 12/28/17(f)

     190      19

Lehman Brothers Holdings, Inc., Unsecured Notes,

     

5.25%, 2/06/12(f)

     440      56,100

Morgan Stanley, Senior Notes,

     

1.65%, 1/09/12(a)

     925      742,388

5.55%, 4/27/17

     115      102,332
         
        3,126,550
         
Chemicals — 0.0%      

Huntsman International LLC, Senior Subordinated Notes,

     

7.88%, 11/15/14

     175      71,750

7.38%, 1/01/15

     85      34,850

PolyOne Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.88%, 5/01/12

     140      60,900
         
        167,500
         
Commercial Banks — 0.9%      

Banco Central de la Republica Dominicana (Dominican Republic), Unsecured Notes,

     

9.04%, 1/23/18(d)

     33      25,412

Banque Centrale de Tunisie (Tunisia), Unsecured Notes,

     

7.38%, 4/25/12(d)

     425      429,250

Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufbau (Germany), Unsecured Notes,

     

3.50%, 3/10/14(d)

     1,700      1,718,583

UBS AG (Switzerland), Senior Notes,

     

5.88%, 12/20/17(d)

     935      804,185

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    11


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Par
(000)
   Value

Corporate Bonds

     

Commercial Banks (concluded)

     

UBS AG (Switzerland), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.75%, 4/25/18(d)

   $ 600    $ 501,872

VTB Capital SA (Luxembourg), Unsecured Notes,

     

7.50%, 10/12/11(d)

     110      101,525

Wachovia Bank N.A., Subordinated Notes,

     

6.60%, 1/15/38

     420      332,159
         
        3,912,986
         
Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.0%      

Aleris International, Inc., Toggle Notes,

     

9.75%, 12/15/14(f)

     230      138

RBS Global, Inc./Rexnord LLC, Senior Notes,

     

8.88%, 9/01/16

     30      22,500
         
        22,638
         
Computers & Peripherals — 0.2%      

International Business Machines Corp., Unsecured Notes,

     

5.70%, 9/14/17

     360      372,914

7.63%, 10/15/18

     300      344,158
         
        717,072
         
Consumer Finance — 0.1%      

Student Loan Marketing Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

1.30%, 7/27/09(a)

     525      505,822
         
Containers & Packaging — 0.1%      

Rock-Tenn Co., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.20%, 8/15/11

     250      250,625
         
Diversified Financial Services — 2.3%      

Bank of America Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.00%, 9/01/17

     315      268,119

5.75%, 12/01/17

     835      701,221

Bank of America Corp., Subordinated Notes,

     

7.40%, 1/15/11

     325      302,984

The Bear Stearns Cos., Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.95%, 8/10/12

     655      667,030

Citigroup, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.30%, 10/17/12

     725      639,020

Ford Capital BV (Netherlands), Debentures,

     

9.50%, 6/01/10(d)

     390      212,550

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.63%, 11/01/10

     250      199,125

Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, Unsecured Notes,

     

9.75%, 9/15/10

     135      111,057

7.80%, 6/01/12

     225      152,488

General Electric Capital Corp., Senior Notes,

     

1.80%, 3/11/11

     2,800      2,807,451

General Electric Capital Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.00%, 12/01/10

     300      297,697

6.75%, 3/15/32

     50      40,545

General Electric Capital Corp., Unsecured Notes,

     

6.15%, 8/07/37

     505      373,457

Icahn Enterprises LP/Icahn Enterprises Finance Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.13%, 2/15/13

     420      333,900

JPMorgan Chase & Co., Unsecured Notes,

     

1.65%, 2/23/11

     1,800      1,807,546

5.60%, 6/01/11

     550      555,330

JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Subordinated Notes,

     

6.00%, 7/05/17

     425      406,575

Leucadia National Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.13%, 3/15/17

     200      137,000

NSG Holdings LLC/NSG Holdings, Inc., Notes,

     

7.75%, 12/15/25(b)

     140      110,600
         
        10,123,695
         
Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.9%      

AT&T, Inc., Unsecured Notes,

     

5.50%, 2/01/18

     250      241,739

6.50%, 9/01/37

     800      721,938

Cincinnati Bell, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.25%, 7/15/13

     520      496,600

Qwest Communications International, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.50%, 2/15/14

     280      242,200

7.50%, 2/15/14

     30      25,950

Qwest Corp., Unsecured Notes,

     

4.57%, 6/15/13(a)

     75      64,313

Telecom Italia Capital SA (Italy), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

4.95%, 9/30/14(d)

     475      410,130

Telefonica Emisiones SAU (Spain), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.42%, 6/20/16(d)

     150      155,090

7.05%, 6/20/36(d)

     150      154,129

Verizon Communications, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.75%, 11/01/18

     1,050      1,201,389

6.35%, 4/01/19

     300      296,382

Verizon Maryland, Inc., Debentures,

     

5.13%, 6/15/33

     10      6,927

Windstream Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.63%, 8/01/16

     105      103,162
         
        4,119,949
         
Electric Utilities — 0.3%      

AES Eastern Energy LP, Pass-Through Certificates, Series 99-A,

     

9.00%, 1/02/17

     201      182,468

Florida Power & Light Co., First Mortgage Bonds,

     

5.63%, 4/01/34

     150      145,213

5.95%, 2/01/38

     225      227,466

Florida Power Corp., First Mortgage Bonds,

     

6.40%, 6/15/38

     150      156,715

MidAmerican Energy Holdings Co., Bonds,

     

6.50%, 9/15/37

     250      231,192

PacifiCorp, First Mortgage Bonds,

     

6.25%, 10/15/37

     200      202,130

Texas Competitive Electric Holdings Co. LLC,

     

10.25%, 11/01/15(b)

     90      45,000

Texas Competitive Electric Holdings Co. LLC, Toggle Notes,

     

11.25%, 11/01/16(b)(j)

     110      41,250

TXU Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes, Series P,

     

5.55%, 11/15/14

     680      253,019
         
        1,484,453
         

 

12

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

      Par
(000)
   Value

Corporate Bonds

     

Energy Equipment & Services — 0.1%

     

Halliburton Co., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.15%, 9/15/19

   $ 80    $ 81,290

7.45%, 9/15/39

     120      120,135
         
        201,425
         

Food & Staples Retailing — 0.3%

     

Rite Aid Corp., Senior Secured Notes,

     

7.50%, 3/01/17

     120      61,800

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.80%, 2/15/18

     1,250      1,366,555
         
        1,428,355
         

Food Products — 0.3%

     

Kraft Foods, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.50%, 8/11/17

     535      550,910

6.13%, 2/01/18

     475      476,073

Tyson Foods, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

10.50%, 3/01/14(b)

     445      453,900
         
        1,480,883
         

Gas Utilities — 0.2%

     

Dominion Resources, Inc., Senior Debentures,

     

5.00%, 3/01/14

     20      19,592

Gazprom Capital (Luxembourg), Unsecured Notes,

     

9.63%, 3/01/13(b)(d)

     200      189,250

Gazprom, Unsecured Notes,

     

9.63%, 3/01/13

     680      648,584
         
        857,426
         

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 0.1%

     

DJO Finance LLC/DJO Finance Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

10.88%, 11/15/14

     345      256,163
         
Health Care Providers & Services — 0.0%      

Health Management Associates, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.13%, 4/15/16

     230      188,025
         
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 0.1%      

Harrah’s Operating Co., Inc., Notes,

     

10.00%, 12/15/18(b)

     61      18,300

Seneca Gaming Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.25%, 5/01/12

     125      79,844

Wendy’s International, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.25%, 11/15/11

     360      327,600
         
        425,744
         

Household Durables — 0.5%

     

Centex Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.13%, 10/01/13

     330      260,700

Centex Corp., Unsecured Notes,

     

4.55%, 11/01/10

     265      241,150

D.R. Horton, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.88%, 5/01/13

     525      441,000

5.63%, 9/15/14

     155      121,675

Jarden Corp., Senior Subordinated Notes,

     

7.50%, 5/01/17

     75      60,375

KB Home, Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.38%, 8/15/11

     460      414,000

Lennar Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes, Series B,

     

5.60%, 5/31/15

     250      178,125

Pulte Homes, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.20%, 2/15/15

     185      146,381

Ryland Group, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.38%, 5/15/12

     165      143,550

Toll Brothers Finance Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

4.95%, 3/15/14

     155      131,568
         
        2,138,524
         
Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders — 0.0%      

NRG Energy, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.38%, 2/01/16

     190      176,700
         
Insurance — 0.4%      

Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

4.75%, 5/15/12

     355      364,472

Hartford Life Global Funding Trusts, Secured Notes,

     

1.50%, 6/16/14(a)(b)

     950      600,484

Metropolitan Life Global Funding I, Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.13%, 4/10/13(b)

     850      776,297
         
        1,741,253
         
Internet & Catalog Retail — 0.2%      

Expedia, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.46%, 8/15/18

     555      466,200

Sabre Holdings Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.35%, 3/15/16

     690      262,200
         
        728,400
         
Media — 1.1%      

Cablevision Systems Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.33%, 4/01/09(a)

     325      325,000

Cengage Learning Acquisitions, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

10.50%, 1/15/15(b)

     310      158,875

Comcast Cable Holdings LLC, Senior Debentures,

     

7.88%, 8/01/13

     2      2,025

Comcast Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.05%, 3/15/33

     115      106,875

Comcast Corp., Unsecured Notes,

     

6.50%, 1/15/17

     850      841,428

6.95%, 8/15/37

     360      335,236

Cox Communications, Inc., Unsecured Notes,

     

8.38%, 3/01/39(b)

     375      351,844

DirecTV Holdings LLC/DirecTV Financing Co., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.63%, 5/15/16

     180      176,400

DISH DBS Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.00%, 10/01/13

     219      203,123

EchoStar DBS Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.13%, 2/01/16

     25      22,375

Idearc, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.00%, 11/15/16(f)

     305      8,006

News America Holdings, Inc., Senior Debentures,

     

7.75%, 1/20/24

     25      21,951

News America, Inc., Senior Debentures,

     

7.28%, 6/30/28

     35      29,071

News America, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.20%, 12/15/34

     100      71,936

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    13


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
   Value

Corporate Bonds

     

Media (concluded)

     

Shaw Communications, Inc. (Canada), Unsecured Notes,

     

7.20%, 12/15/11(d)

   $ 175    $ 173,688

TCI Communications, Inc., Senior Debentures,

     

7.88%, 2/15/26

     5      4,593

TCI Communications, Inc., Senior Notes,

     

7.13%, 2/15/28

     35      30,777

Time Warner Cable, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.20%, 7/01/13

     1,025      997,825

Time Warner Cos., Inc., Senior Debentures,

     

7.57%, 2/01/24

     30      27,668

Time Warner, Inc., Senior Debentures,

     

7.63%, 4/15/31

     200      178,705

Viacom, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.75%, 4/30/11

     525      511,433
         
        4,578,834
         

Metals & Mining — 0.0%

     

Ispat Inland ULC (Canada), Notes,

     

9.75%, 4/01/14(d)

     10      9,100
         

Multiline Retail — 0.0%

     

Federated Retail Holdings, Inc., Notes,

     

5.35%, 3/15/12

     250      196,239
         

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 1.0%

     

Anadarko Petroleum Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.95%, 9/15/16

     405      348,818

Arch Western Finance LLC, Senior Notes,

     

6.75%, 7/01/13

     400      366,000

Chesapeake Energy Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.25%, 12/15/18

     400      328,500

ConocoPhillips Australia Funding Co., Unsecured Notes,

     

1.50%, 4/09/09(a)

     1,129      1,128,998

ConocoPhillips, Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.50%, 2/01/39

     150      146,321

EXCO Resources, Inc., Notes,

     

7.25%, 1/15/11

     65      50,375

Forest Oil Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.25%, 6/15/19

     130      102,700

Kinder Morgan Finance Co. ULC (Canada), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.35%, 1/05/11(d)

     365      348,575

Newfield Exploration Co., Senior Subordinated Notes,

     

6.63%, 9/01/14

     130      117,650

6.63%, 4/15/16

     120      107,400

OPTi, Inc. (Canada), Notes,

     

8.25%, 12/15/14(d)

     175      78,313

Shell International Finance BV (Netherlands), Unsecured Notes,

     

4.00%, 3/21/14(d)

     875      887,277

XTO Energy, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.75%, 8/01/37

     250      227,529
         
        4,238,456
         

Paper & Forest Products — 0.0%

     

Ainsworth Lumber Co. Ltd. (Canada), Toggle Notes,

     

11.00%, 7/29/15(b)(d)

     146      42,266

NewPage Corp., Senior Secured Notes,

     

10.00%, 5/01/12

     140      48,650

Catalyst Paper Corp. (Canada), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.63%, 6/15/11(d)

     50      22,875
         
        113,791
         

Pharmaceuticals — 1.0%

     

Abbott Laboratories, Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.13%, 4/01/19

     420      422,406

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Senior Debentures,

     

6.88%, 8/01/97

     25      24,481

Eli Lilly & Co., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

3.55%, 3/06/12

     370      378,019

GlaxoSmithKline Capital, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

4.85%, 5/15/13

     400      416,160

Merck & Co., Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

4.38%, 2/15/13

     410      429,031

Novartis Securities Investment Ltd. (Bermuda), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.13%, 2/10/19(d)

     440      446,742

Pfizer, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

5.35%, 3/15/15

     1,250      1,318,808

Roche Holdings, Inc., Unsecured Notes,

     

3.25%, 2/25/11(a)(b)

     180      179,681

5.00%, 3/01/14(b)

     775      793,233
         
        4,408,561
         

Software — 0.2%

     

First Data Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

9.88%, 9/24/15

     700      409,500

Oracle Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

4.95%, 4/15/13

     570      602,370
         
        1,011,870
         

Specialty Retail — 0.2%

     

The Hertz Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

8.88%, 1/01/14

     165      100,031

Rent-A-Center, Inc., Senior Subordinated Notes,

     

7.50%, 5/01/10

     180      175,950

United Rentals N.A., Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.50%, 2/15/12

     500      400,000
         
        675,981
         

Tobacco — 0.1%

     

Philip Morris International, Inc., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

6.88%, 3/17/14

     275      297,628
         

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.4%

     

America Movil SAB de CV (Mexico),

     

6.38%, 3/01/35(d)

     75      60,247

American Tower Corp., Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.50%, 5/01/12

     800      804,000

7.13%, 10/15/12

     230      231,150

Rogers Communications, Inc. (Canada), Notes,

     

7.50%, 3/15/15(d)

     500      518,199

Vodafone Group Plc (United Kingdom), Senior Unsecured Notes,

     

7.75%, 2/15/10(d)

     125      129,698
         
        1,743,294
         

Total Corporate Bonds — 12.0%

        52,711,127
         

 

14

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Shares    Value

Exchange-Traded Funds

     

iShares Russell 2000 Growth Index Fund

   2,500    $ 114,950

iShares Russell 2000 Value Index Fund

   1,463      57,730

iShares Russell Midcap Growth Index Fund

   3,900      117,390
         

Total Exchange-Traded Funds — 0.1%

        290,070
         
     Par
(000)
    

Foreign Government Obligations

     

Argentina — 0.0%

     

Republic of Argentina,

     

8.28%, 12/31/33(d)

   USD 37      10,025

2.50%, 12/31/38(c)(d)

   90      15,750
         
        25,775
         

Brazil — 0.2%

     

Republic of Brazil,

     

8.25%, 1/20/34(d)

   170      188,700

11.00%, 8/17/40(d)

   705      895,350
         
        1,084,050
         

Colombia — 0.1%

     

Republic of Colombia,

     

7.38%, 3/18/19(d)

   225      224,438

7.38%, 9/18/37(d)

   100      89,250
         
        313,688
         

El Salvador — 0.0%

     

Republic of El Salvador,

     

7.65%, 6/15/35(b)(d)

   55      40,150
         

Germany — 0.1%

     

Bundesrepublic Deutschland,

     

4.00%, 1/04/37

   EUR 70      94,076

4.25%, 7/04/39

   250      354,704
         
        448,780
         

Indonesia — 0.0%

     

Republic of Indonesia,

     

6.63%, 2/17/37(b)(d)

   USD 100      67,500

7.75%, 1/17/38(d)

   110      84,878
         
        152,378
         

Israel — 0.1%

     

Israel Government AID Bond,

     

5.50%, 4/26/24(d)

   100      112,655

5.50%, 9/18/33(d)

   85      103,476
         
        216,131
         

Mexico — 0.1%

     

United Mexican States,

     

8.30%, 8/15/31(d)

   194      215,049

6.05%, 1/11/40(d)

   125      106,875
         
        321,924
         

Panama — 0.1%

     

Republic of Panama,

     

7.13%, 1/29/26(d)

   170      160,650

8.88%, 9/30/27(d)

   95      101,650
         
        262,300
         

Peru — 0.0%

     

Republic of Peru,

     

6.55%, 3/14/37(d)

   115      102,925
         

Philippines — 0.1%

     

Republic of Philippines,

     

9.00%, 2/15/13(d)

   370      423,650
         

Russia — 0.0%

     

Russian Federation,

     

7.50%, 3/31/30(c)(d)

   196      184,814
         

Turkey — 0.1%

     

Republic of Turkey,

     

6.75%, 4/03/18(d)

   530      487,600
         

Ukraine — 0.0%

     

Ukraine Government,

     

6.58%, 11/21/16(b)(d)

   100      43,000
         

United Kingdom — 0.1%

     

United Kingdom Treasury Bonds,

     

4.25%, 12/07/49

   GBP 275      384,224
         

Uruguay — 0.0%

     

Republic of Uruguay,

     

7.63%, 3/21/36(d)

   USD 165      132,000
         

Venezuela — 0.1%

     

Republic of Venezuela,

     

8.50%, 10/08/14(d)

   200      123,000

9.25%, 9/15/27(d)

   200      116,000

9.38%, 1/13/34(d)

   100      51,250
         
        290,250
         

Total Foreign Government Obligations — 1.1%

        4,913,639
         

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

     

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — 4.5%

     

Banc of America Alternative Loan Trust, Series 04-6, Class 4A1,

     

5.00%, 7/25/19

   149      132,030

Bear Stearns Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 05-4, Class 3A1,

     

5.37%, 8/25/35(a)

   3,978      2,571,394

Bear Stearns Adjustable Rate Mortgage Trust, Series 06-2, Class 2A1,

     

5.65%, 7/25/36(a)

   1,643      838,263

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    15


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
   Value

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

     

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (continued)

     

CitiMortgage Alternative Loan Trust, Series 07-A8, Class A1,

     

6.00%, 10/25/37

   $ 1,183    $ 549,578

Countrywide Alternative Loan Trust, Series 05-21CB, Class A17,

     

6.00%, 6/25/35

     1,205      622,461

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass Through Trust, Series 03-27, Class M,

     

4.66%, 6/25/33(a)

     493      296,737

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass Through Trust, Series 03-56, Class 4A1,

     

4.92%, 12/25/33(a)

     1,164      962,817

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass Through Trust, Series 03-58, Class B1,

     

4.90%, 2/19/34(a)

     120      28,861

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass Through Trust, Series 06-OA5, Class 2A1,

     

0.72%, 4/25/46(a)

     239      85,182

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass Through Trust, Series 06-OA5, Class 3A1,

     

0.72%, 4/25/46(a)

     435      173,859

Countrywide Home Loan Mortgage Pass Through Trust, Series 07-J3, Class A10,

     

6.00%, 7/25/37

     921      422,008

Credit Suisse Mortgage Capital Certificates, Series 06-8, Class 3A1,

     

6.00%, 10/25/21

     269      152,641

First Horizon Asset Securities, Inc., Series 05-AR3, Class 3A1,

     

5.50%, 8/25/35(a)

     183      131,649

Harborview Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 05-10, Class 2A1A,

     

0.87%, 11/19/35(a)

     651      247,458

Homebanc Mortgage Trust, Series 06-2, Class A1,

     

0.70%, 12/25/36(a)

     547      228,541

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 06-S2, Class 2A2,

     

5.88%, 7/25/36

     136      98,618

JPMorgan Mortgage Trust, Series 07-S1, Class 1A2,

     

5.50%, 3/25/22

     139      103,085

Master Alternative Loans Trust, Series 04-4, Class 1A1,

     

5.50%, 5/25/34

     106      88,712

Residential Accredit Loans, Inc., Series 06-QO2, Class A1,

     

0.74%, 2/25/46(a)

     325      135,791

Residential Funding Mortgage Securities I, Series 04-S9, Class2A1,

     

4.75%, 12/25/19

     1,488      1,371,342

Salomon Brothers Mortgage Securities VI, Inc., Series 87-1 (IO),

     

11.00%, 2/17/17(a)

     23      4,223

Salomon Brothers Mortgage Securities VI, Inc., Series 87-1 (PO),

     

1.60%, 2/17/17(k)

     25      22,300

Salomon Brothers Mortgage Securities VI, Inc., Series 87-2 (IO),

     

11.00%, 3/16/17(a)

     18      4,028

Salomon Brothers Mortgage Securities VI, Inc., Series 87-2 (PO),

     

0.54%, 3/06/17(k)

     18      17,571

Salomon Brothers Mortgage Securities VII, Inc., Series 00-C3, Class A2,

     

6.59%, 12/18/33

     1,278      1,280,530

Structured Adjustable Rate Mortgage Loan Trust, Series 07-3, Class 2A1,

     

5.73%, 4/25/37(a)

     1,293      659,852

Structured Asset Securities Corp., Series 01-21A, Class B2,

     

5.14%, 1/25/32(a)

     5      1,928

Structured Asset Securities Corp., Series 03-2A, Class B2II,

     

5.21%, 2/25/33(a)

     56      20,968

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 03-AR3, Class B2,

     

3.62%, 4/25/33(a)

     43      25,321

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 03-AR5, Class B2,

     

4.50%, 6/25/33(a)

     157      67,283

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 03-AR8, Class B1,

     

4.26%, 8/25/33(a)

     187      122,594

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 04-AR1, Class B1,

     

3.74%, 3/25/34(a)

     747      184,171

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 04-AR3, Class B1,

     

4.07%, 6/25/34(a)

     210      107,852

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 06-AR18, Class 1A1,

     

5.31%, 1/25/37(a)

     857      414,200

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-HY3, Class 1A1,

     

5.62%, 3/25/37(a)

     3,301      1,612,104

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-HY3, Class 4A1,

     

5.33%, 3/25/37(a)

     1,512      833,245

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-OA4, Class 1A,

     

2.40%, 5/25/47(a)

     265      100,326

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-OA5, Class 1A,

     

2.38%, 6/25/47(a)

     222      78,195

Washington Mutual Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-OC1, Class A1,

     

0.76%, 1/25/47(a)

     1,362      502,152

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 05-AR15, Class 2A1,

     

5.11%, 9/25/35(a)

     1,794      1,377,635

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR10, Class IIA2,

     

4.19%, 6/25/35(a)

     1,921      1,422,739

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR12, Class 2A1,

     

6.10%, 9/25/36(a)

     360      226,280

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR17, Class A1,

     

5.33%, 10/25/36(a)

     625      345,757

Wells Fargo Mortgage Backed Securities Trust, Series 06-AR2, Class 2A5,

     

5.08%, 3/25/36(a)

     1,933      1,106,321
         
        19,778,602
         

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities — 5.9%

     

Banc of America Commercial Mortgage, Inc., Series 07-2, Class A4,

     

5.69%, 4/10/49(a)

     1,000      725,055

 

16

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
   Value

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

     

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (continued)

     

Bank of America-First Union Commercial Mortgage, Series 01-3, Class A2,

     

5.46%, 4/11/37

   $ 1,375    $ 1,327,354

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 00-WF2, Class A2,

     

7.32%, 10/15/32(a)

     462      466,378

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 02-TOP6, Class A1,

     

5.92%, 10/15/36

     223      223,646

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 03-T12, Class A4,

     

4.68%, 9/13/13(a)

     1,025      898,357

Bear Stearns Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 99-WF2, Class A2,

     

7.08%, 7/15/31

     94      93,986

CDC Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 02-FX1, Class A1,

     

5.25%, 5/15/19

     573      571,523

Citigroup/Deutsche Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 07-CD4, Class A4,

     

5.32%, 12/11/49

     68      44,911

Citigroup/Deutsche Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 07-CD5, Class A4,

     

5.89%, 11/15/44(a)

     475      340,010

Citigroup-Deutsche Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 07-C6, Class AM,

     

5.70%, 6/10/17(a)

     475      194,346

Commercial Mortgage Acceptance Corp., Series 98-C2, Class E,

     

6.87%, 6/15/10(a)

     930      931,405

Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 04-LB3A, Class A3,

     

5.09%, 7/10/37(a)

     515      467,058

Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 07-C9, Class A4,

     

5.82%, 12/10/49(a)

     300      218,159

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 01-CP4, Class D,

     

6.61%, 12/15/35

     1,450      1,328,099

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 02-CKN2, Class A3,

     

6.13%, 3/15/12

     1,000      981,652

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 02-CKS4, Class A2,

     

5.18%, 8/15/12

     1,090      1,031,918

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 02-CP5, Class A2,

     

4.94%, 12/15/35

     1,010      952,972

Credit Suisse First Boston Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 03-C3, Class A5,

     

3.94%, 5/15/38

     1,020      879,407

First Union National Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 01-C2, Class A2,

     

6.66%, 1/12/43

     942      961,750

First Union National Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 01-C4, Class A2,

     

6.22%, 12/12/33

     1,140      1,124,539

General Motors Acceptance Corp. Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 00-C3, Class A2,

     

6.96%, 11/15/10

     1,270      1,288,329

General Motors Acceptance Corp. Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc., Series 99-C3, Class A2,

     

7.18%, 8/15/36(a)

     86      86,065

Impac Commercial Mortgage Backed Trust, Series 04-5, Class 1A1,

     

0.88%, 10/25/34(a)

     82      47,339

Impac Commercial Mortgage Backed Trust, Series 04-7, Class 1A1,

     

1.26%, 11/25/34(a)

     201      102,835

Impac Commercial Mortgage Backed Trust, Series 04-7, Class M4,

     

2.32%, 11/25/34(a)

     66      14,179

JPMorgan Chase Commercial Mortgage Securities Corp., Series 07-LD11, Class A2,

     

5.80%, 6/15/49(a)

     1,220      973,766

Lehman Brothers Commercial Conduit Mortgage Trust, Series 99-C2, Class A2,

     

7.33%, 10/15/32

     168      169,063

Lehman Brothers Commercial Conduit Mortgage Trust, Series 99-C2, Class E,

     

7.47%, 10/15/32

     125      125,318

Lehman Brothers-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 01-C7, Class A4,

     

5.93%, 12/15/25

     377      373,527

Lehman Brothers-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 01-WM, Class A1,

     

6.16%, 7/14/16(b)

     373      371,299

Lehman Brothers-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 04-C6, Class A1,

     

3.88%, 8/15/29

     83      82,803

Lehman Brothers-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 06-C1, Class A4,

     

5.16%, 2/15/31

     1,085      827,580

Lehman Brothers-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 06-C6, Class A4,

     

5.37%, 9/15/39

     470      338,244

Lehman Brothers-UBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 07-C7, Class A3,

     

5.87%, 9/15/45(a)

     1,050      735,514

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Inc., Series 01-TOP1, Class A4,

     

6.66%, 2/15/33

     845      838,898

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Inc., Series 02-TOP7, Class A1,

     

5.38%, 1/15/39

     154      153,840

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Inc., Series 05-HQ6, Class A4A,

     

4.99%, 8/13/42

     2,405      1,934,760

Morgan Stanley Capital I, Series 03-IQ4, Class A2,

     

4.07%, 5/15/40

     1,025      889,917

Structured Asset Securities Corp. Commercial Trust, Series 96-CFL, Class X1 (IO),

     

2.17%, 2/25/28(a)

     476      22

TIAA Retail Commercial Trust, Series 01-C1A, Class A4,

     

6.68%, 6/19/31(a)(b)

     499      499,584

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 05-C21, Class A3,

     

5.21%, 10/15/44(a)

     490      452,883

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 06-C25, Class A5,

     

5.74%, 5/15/43(a)

     1,050      765,796

Wachovia Bank Commercial Mortgage Trust, Series 07-C33, Class A4,

     

5.90%, 7/15/17(a)

     1,405      862,073

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    17


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
   Value

Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

     

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (concluded)

     

Washington Mutual Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, Series 05-C1A, Class X (IO),

     

1.97%, 5/25/36(a)(b)

   $ 5,308    $ 152,860
         
        25,849,019
         

Total Non-U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities — 10.4%

        45,627,621
         
     Shares     

Rights

     

HSBC Holdings Plc, Expiring 4/03/09(g)

     34,850      194,031

Pohjola Bank Plc, Expiring 4/24/09(g)

     12,800      17,395

William Hill Plc, Expiring 4/07/09(g)

     55,900      51,333
         

Total Rights — 0.1%

        262,759
         
     Par
(000)
    

Taxable Municipal Bonds

     

Atlantic Marine Corp. Communities LLC, Notes (Delaware),

     

5.34%, 12/01/49(b)

   $ 600      380,250

Ohana Hawaii Military Communities LLC, Military Housing Revenue Bonds (Navy Housing Privatization Project), Series 04-A, Class 1,

     

6.19%, 4/01/49(b)

     25      19,494
         

Total Taxable Municipal Bonds — 0.1%

        399,744
         

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

     

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations — 18.8%

     

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 1 Year CMT,

     

4.77%, 1/01/35(a)

     544      557,576

5.05%, 12/01/35(a)

     514      525,994

5.97%, 6/01/36(a)

     783      813,312

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 15 Year TBA,

     

6.00%, 4/01/24(l)

     300      313,969

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 30 Year TBA,

     

4.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     200      204,000

5.00%, 4/01/39(l)

     1,600      1,649,000

5.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     6,300      6,534,281

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Gold,

     

4.00%, 5/01/10

     70      70,245

6.00%, 4/01/13-6/01/16

     71      74,789

9.50%, 12/01/22

     147      168,421

8.00%, 2/01/23-8/01/27

     17      18,498

7.50%, 9/01/27(m)

     0      257

6.50%, 1/01/29-8/01/32

     54      57,459

5.50%, 8/01/33-9/01/38

     623      647,552

4.50%, 9/01/35-3/01/39

     2,701      2,761,981

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. Non Gold Pool,

     

5.05%, 9/01/35-4/01/38(a)

     1,866      1,918,582

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Series 2864, Class NA,

     

5.50%, 1/15/31

     98      102,005

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Series 3171, Class ST (IO),

     

5.93%, 6/15/36(a)

     2,657      221,197

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Series 3218, Class SA (IO),

     

6.01%, 9/15/36(a)

     1,259      98,458

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Series 3501, Class SC (IO),

     

5.29%, 1/15/39(a)

     900      61,549

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Series 3501, Class SJ (IO),

     

5.89%, 1/15/39(a)

     900      68,502

Federal National Mortgage Assoc.,

     

6.00%, 9/01/11-8/01/36

     2,291      2,406,594

7.00%, 8/01/14-10/01/32

     186      195,702

5.50%, 4/01/17-2/01/35(n)

     12,169      12,678,134

7.50%, 10/01/25-2/01/30

     2      2,332

6.50%, 5/01/29-7/01/32

     85      91,078

5.00%, 2/01/38

     5,636      5,828,533

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 15 Year TBA,

     

4.00%, 4/01/24(l)

     2,000      2,032,500

4.50%, 4/01/24(l)

     2,200      2,264,625

5.50%, 4/01/24(l)

     4,100      4,271,688

6.00%, 4/01/24(l)

     100      104,656

5.00%, 5/01/24(l)

     3,600      3,722,623

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 30 Year TBA,

     

4.50%, 3/01/39-4/01/39(l)

     6,270      6,406,624

5.00%, 4/01/39(l)

     5,900      6,086,219

5.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     1,200      1,245,375

6.00%, 4/01/39(l)

     100      104,406

6.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     200      210,625

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. ARM,

     

4.19%, 12/01/34(a)

     817      822,093

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. Grantor Trust, Series 03-T1, Class R (IO),

     

0.49%, 11/25/12(a)

     6,352      111,136

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 04-88, Class HA,

     

6.50%, 7/25/34

     37      38,907

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 07-108, Class AN,

     

8.87%, 11/25/37(a)

     760      838,233

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 07-30, Class WI (IO),

     

6.24%, 4/25/37(a)

     3,143      249,962

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 08-2, Class SA (IO),

     

5.75%, 2/25/38(a)

     1,606      134,964

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Series 378, Class 5 (IO),

     

5.00%, 7/01/36

     1,790      208,762

Government National Mortgage Assoc. I,

     

6.50%, 6/15/09-1/15/35

     1,119      1,181,217

7.50%, 12/15/10

     11      11,742

6.00%, 10/15/23-2/15/24

     195      205,145

7.00%, 4/15/29-6/15/35

     1,874      2,001,796

5.50%, 4/15/33-8/15/33

     478      499,218

Government National Mortgage Assoc. I 30 Year TBA,

     

4.50%, 4/01/39-5/01/39(l)

     5,300      5,404,875

5.50%, 4/01/39-5/01/39(l)

     400      415,406

6.00%, 5/01/39(l)

     1,100      1,146,063

Government National Mortgage Assoc. II,

     

5.00%, 10/20/33

     963      1,000,801

Government National Mortgage Assoc. II 30 Year TBA,

     

5.00%, 4/01/39(l)

     1,000      1,034,375

6.00%, 5/01/39(l)

     1,800      1,872,000

 

18

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Par
(000)
    Value  

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

    

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (concluded)

    

Government National Mortgage Assoc. II ARM,

    

3.75%, 5/20/34(a)

   $ 117     $ 116,539  

Government National Mortgage Assoc., Series 07-59, Class SC (IO),

    

5.96%, 7/20/37(a)

     2,228       144,497  

Government National Mortgage Assoc., Series 07-67, Class SI (IO),

    

5.97%, 11/20/37(a)

     1,331       83,086  

Government National Mortgage Assoc., Series 07-72, Class US (IO),

    

6.01%, 11/20/37(a)

     3,511       203,450  
          

Total U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities — 18.8%

       82,243,608  
          

U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Obligations

    

Federal Home Loan Bank, Bonds,

    

5.38%, 5/15/19

     2,005       2,200,927  

Federal Home Loan Bank, Subordinated Notes,

    

5.63%, 6/13/16

     890       868,852  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Subordinated Notes,

    

5.75%, 6/27/16

     920       958,969  

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Unsecured Notes,

    

2.13%, 3/23/12

     1,450       1,460,988  

5.25%, 4/18/16

     760       859,995  

Federal National Mortgage Assoc., Unsecured Notes,

    

2.88%, 10/12/10

     1,900       1,952,626  

2.00%, 1/09/12(n)

     1,915       1,934,303  

2.88%, 12/11/13(o)

     1,675       1,712,237  

2.75%, 2/05/14

     1,650       1,674,227  

2.75%, 3/13/14

     3,400       3,440,586  

Resolution Funding Corp., Strip Bonds,

    

3.77%, 7/15/18(k)

     150       105,987  

3.78%, 10/15/18(k)

     150       104,952  
          

Total U.S. Government Sponsored Agency Obligations — 3.9%

       17,274,649  
          

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    

U.S. Treasury Bonds,

    

8.13%, 8/15/19(p)

     1,025       1,486,250  

4.50%, 5/15/38

     250       291,875  

U.S. Treasury Notes,

    

1.88%, 2/28/14

     5       5,055  

2.75%, 2/15/19(p)

     2,490       2,503,620  
          

Total U.S. Treasury Obligations — 1.0%

       4,286,800  
          
     Shares        

Warrant — 0.0%

    

Crosshair Exploration & Mining Corp. (issued/exercisable 4/04/08, 1 share for 1 warrant, expiring 10/04/09, strike price 1.80 CAD) (acquired 4/04/08, cost $51)(g)(i)

     5,300       16  
          

Total Long-Term Investments
(Cost — $513,575,743) — 102.6%

     $ 449,515,738  
          
      Par/Shares/
Beneficial
Interest

(000)
       

Short-Term Securities

    

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund,

    

0.60%(q)(r)

     22,244       22,244,139  

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series,

    

1.17%(q)(r)(s)

     1,590       1,590,400  

BNP Paribas Finance, Inc.,

    

0.55%, 4/09/09(r)

     5,000       4,999,015  

Danske Corp.,

    

1.50%, 6/04/09(r)

     6,000       5,990,272  
          

Total Short-Term Securities
(Cost — $34,817,928) — 7.9%

       34,823,826  
          
     Contracts(t)        

Options Purchased

    

Over-the-Counter Call Swaptions Purchased

    

Receive a fixed rate of 2.500% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Barclays Bank, Plc

     190       51,364  
          

Over-the-Counter Put Swaptions Purchased

    

Pay a fixed rate of 5.500% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring December 2009, Broker, Bank of America, N.A.

     110       4,110  
          

Total Options Purchased
(Cost — $87,790) — 0.0%

       55,474  
          

Total Investments Before TBA Sale Commitments and Outstanding Options Written
(Cost — $548,481,461*) — 110.5%

       484,395,038  
          
     Par
(000)
       

TBA Sale Commitments

    

Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. 30 Year TBA,

    

4.50%, 4/01/39(l)

   $ (2,900 )     (2,958,000 )

5.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     (4,600 )     (4,771,062 )

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 15 Year TBA,

    

5.50%, 4/01/24(l)

     (4,500 )     (4,688,438 )

Federal National Mortgage Assoc. 30 Year TBA,

    

4.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     (3,700 )     (3,777,469 )

5.00%, 4/01/39-5/01/39(l)

     (10,800 )     (11,116,832 )

5.50%, 4/01/39-5/01/39(l)

     (10,100 )     (10,456,875 )

6.00%, 4/01/39(l)

     (2,300 )     (2,401,344 )

6.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     (200 )     (210,625 )

7.00%, 4/01/39(l)

     (47 )     (50,056 )

Government National Mortgage Assoc. I 30 Year TBA,

    

4.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     (1,600 )     (1,635,500 )

5.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     (100 )     (104,062 )

6.50%, 4/01/39(l)

     (300 )     (314,531 )
          

Total TBA Sale Commitments
(Proceeds — $42,210,978) — (9.7)%

       (42,484,794 )
          

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    19


Schedule of Investments (continued)   
   (Percentages shown are based on Net Assets)

 

     Contracts(t)     Value  

Options Written

    

Over-the-Counter Call Swaptions Written

    

Pay a fixed rate of 3.310% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   (190 )   $ (86,134 )

Pay a fixed rate of 3.330% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

   (210 )     (97,483 )

Pay a fixed rate of 3.470% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

   (190 )     (102,385 )

Pay a fixed rate of 4.870% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring February 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

   (570 )     (876,858 )

Pay a fixed rate of 5.400% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring December 2010, Broker, UBS AG

   (260 )     (463,301 )

Pay a fixed rate of 5.485% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring October 2009, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   (140 )     (297,260 )

Pay a fixed rate of 5.670% and receive a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring January 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

   (50 )     (111,300 )
          
       (2,034,721 )
          

Over-the-Counter Put Swaptions Written

    

Receive a fixed rate of 3.310% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   (190 )     (60,387 )

Receive a fixed rate of 3.330% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

   (210 )     (64,550 )

Receive a fixed rate of 3.470% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

   (190 )     (50,069 )

Receive a fixed rate of 4.500% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring March 2010, Broker, Barclays Bank, Plc

   (190 )     (44,323 )

Receive a fixed rate of 4.870% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring February 2010, Broker, Deutsche Bank AG

   (570 )     (20,522 )

Receive a fixed rate of 5.400% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring December 2010, Broker, UBS AG

   (260 )     (18,639 )

Receive a fixed rate of 5.485% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring October 2009, Broker, JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   (140 )     (652 )

Receive a fixed rate of 5.670% and pay a floating rate based on 3-month LIBOR, expiring January 2010, Broker, Citibank, N.A.

   (50 )     (390 )
          
       (259,532 )
          

Total Options Written
(Premiums Received — $1,551,320) — (0.5)%

       (2,294,253 )
          

Total Investments Net of TBA Sale Commitments and Outstanding Options Written — 100.3%

       439,615,991  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.3)%

       (1,384,232 )
          

Net Assets — 100.0%

     $ 438,231,759  
          

 

* The cost and unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments as of March 31, 2009, as computed for federal income tax purposes, were as follows:

 

Aggregate cost

   $ 555,067,249  
        

Gross unrealized appreciation

   $ 19,004,287  

Gross unrealized depreciation

     (89,676,498 )
        

Net unrealized depreciation

   $ (70,672,211 )
        

 

(a) Variable rate security. Rate shown is as of report date.

 

(b) Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors.

 

(c) Represents a step-up bond that pays an initial coupon rate for the first period and then a higher coupon rate for the following periods. Rate shown reflects the effective yield at the time of purchase.

 

(d) U.S. dollar denominated security issued by foreign domiciled entity.

 

(e) Security is perpetual in nature and has no stated maturity date. In certain instances, a final maturity date may be extended and/or the final payment of principal may be deferred at the issuer’s option for a specified time without default.

 

(f) Issuer filed for bankruptcy and/or is in default of interest payments.

 

(g) Non-income producing security.

 

(h) Security, or a portion of security, is on loan.

 

(i) Restricted security as to resale. As of report date the Portfolio held 0.04% of its net assets, with a current market value of $175,897 and an original cost of $111,001 in these securities.

 

(j) Represents a payment-in-kind security which may pay interest/dividends in additional face/shares.

 

(k) Represents a zero coupon bond. Rate shown reflects the current yield as of report date.

 

(l) Represents or includes a to-be-announced transaction. The Portfolio has committed to purchasing (selling) securities for which all specific information is not available at this time.

 

Counterparty

   Market Value     Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

AK Capital Services Ltd.

   $ (50,056 )   $ 251  

Bank of America, N.A.

   $ (10,094 )   $ (18,703 )

Barclays Bank, Plc

   $ (2,040,000 )   $ 9,375  

Citibank, N.A.

   $ (16,166,938 )   $ (92,828 )

Credit Suisse International

   $ (7,318,988 )   $ (93,160 )

Deutsche Bank AG

   $ 15,580,311     $ 161,167  

JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association

   $ 9,915,125     $ 69,094  

 

(m) Par is less than $500.

 

(n) Security, or a portion thereof, has been pledged as collateral for swap contracts. (o) All or a portion of security pledged as collateral in connection with open financial futures contracts.

 

(p) Security, or a portion thereof, subject to mortgage dollar roll transactions.

 

20

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

(q) Investments in companies considered to be an affiliate of the Portfolio, for purposes of Section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, were as follows:

 

Affiliate

   Net
Activity
    Income

BlackRock Liquidity Funds, TempFund

   $ 22,244,139 **   $ 49,398

BlackRock Liquidity Series, LLC Money Market Series

   $ 120,500 **   $ 15,713

 

** Represents net purchase cost.

 

(r) Represents current yield as of report date.

 

(s) Security purchased with the cash proceeds from securities loans. (t) One contract represents a notional amount of $10,000.

 

 

Foreign currency exchange contracts as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Currency
Purchased

  

Currency Sold

  

Counterparty

   Settlement
Date
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

AUD

   745,000    USD    488,316    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09    $ 29,103  

CAD

   569,000    USD    448,247    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      3,065  

CHF

   1,355,000    USD    1,205,341    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (14,596 )

CHF

   1,000    USD    860    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      19  

CHF

   52,000    USD    45,140    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      557  

CHF

   23,000    USD    19,406    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      806  

DKK

   1,300,000    USD    228,563    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      3,217  

EUR

   930,000    USD    1,216,288    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      19,268  

GBP

   40,000    USD    57,084    UBS AG    4/15/09      312  

JPY

   9,278,000    USD    97,119    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (3,368 )

JPY

   23,297,000    USD    260,386    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (24,977 )

JPY

   11,987,000    USD    135,310    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (14,185 )

JPY

   60,000,000    USD    678,043    UBS AG    4/15/09      (71,761 )

JPY

   6,891,000    USD    77,446    UBS AG    4/15/09      (7,815 )

NOK

   313,000    USD    43,526    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      3,017  

NOK

   370,000    USD    53,191    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      1,827  

SEK

   5,577,000    USD    669,335    Royal Bank of Scotland    4/15/09      9,108  

SGD

   360,000    USD    241,061    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (4,464 )

USD

   52,673    AUD    80,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (2,889 )

USD

   35,425    AUD    54,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (2,080 )

USD

   39,265    CAD    50,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (394 )

USD

   37,000    CAD    45,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,308  

USD

   58,495    CAD    72,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,387  

USD

   220,823    CAD    270,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      6,668  

USD

   44,042    CZK    909,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (74 )

USD

   187,765    EUR    138,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      4,424  

USD

   32,772    EUR    25,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (442 )

USD

   50,653    GBP    35,000    Barclays Bank, Plc    4/15/09      432  

USD

   64,148    GBP    46,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (1,857 )

USD

   205,681    GBP    144,000    Deutsche Bank AG    4/15/09      (944 )

USD

   715,243    GBP    490,000    UBS AG Goldman Sachs Bank    4/15/09      12,142  

USD

   347,978    HKD    2,700,000    USA    4/15/09      (413 )

USD

   39,448    JPY    3,870,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      343  

USD

   613,711    NOK    4,436,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      (45,912 )

USD

   47,601    SEK    380,000    Citibank, N.A.    4/15/09      1,374  

USD

   53,016    SEK    445,000    UBS AG    4/15/09      (1,119 )

USD

   613,255    EUR    476,500    Citibank, N.A.    5/20/09      (19,828 )

GBP

   34,000    USD    49,097    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (300 )

HKD

   492,000    USD    63,516    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (8 )

SEK

   230,000    USD    27,225    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      768  

USD

   74,075    AUD    108,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (666 )

USD

   56,001    EUR    43,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (1,133 )

USD

   828,520    GBP    592,500    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (21,832 )

USD

   612,738    GBP    434,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (10,136 )

USD

   335,286    JPY    32,869,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      2,853  

USD

   59,872    ZAR    576,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      (13 )

USD

   33,042    ZAR    316,000    Citibank, N.A.    6/10/09      188  

USD

   20,828    ZAR    204,000    Deutsche Bank AG    6/10/09      (381 )
                       
Total                $ (149,401 )
                       

 

 

Financial futures contracts purchased as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Contracts

  

Issue

  

Exchange

  

Expiration
Date

   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

200

   DJIA Index    Chicago    June 2009    $ 14,960,000    $ 892,000  

8

   Euro-Bund    Chicago    June 2009    $ 1,322,545      (1,275 )

17

   United Kingdom Gilt    London    June 2009    $ 3,005,381      49,402  

130

   S&P 500 Index    Chicago    June 2009    $ 25,831,000      1,508,000  

65

   U.S. Treasury Bonds    Chicago    June 2009    $ 8,430,703      220,433  

12

   U.S. Treasury Notes (2 Year)    Chicago    June 2009    $ 2,614,688      6,382  

194

   U.S. Treasury Notes (5 Year)    Chicago    June 2009    $ 23,040,531      244,561  
                    

Total

               $ 2,919,503  
                    

 

 

Financial futures contracts sold as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Contracts

  

Issue

   Exchange   

Expiration

Date

   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Depreciation
 

57

   U.S. Treasury Notes (10 Year)    Chicago    June 2009    $ 6,541,875    $ (7,130 )

41

   Euro Dollar Futures (90 Day)    Chicago    June 2009    $ 10,137,250      (99,162 )

9

   Euro Dollar Futures (90 Day)    Chicago    September 2009    $ 2,225,363      (5,950 )

9

   Euro Dollar Futures (90 Day)    Chicago    December 2009    $ 2,221,988      (6,175 )

6

   Euro Dollar Futures (90 Day)    Chicago    March 2010    $ 1,480,500      (5,540 )

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    21


Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

Contracts

   Issue   Exchange    Expiration
Date
   Face
Value
   Unrealized
Depreciation
 

7

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    June 2010    $ 1,724,538      (7,945 )

7

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    September 2010    $ 1,721,738      (9,207 )

7

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    December 2010    $ 1,718,150      (9,669 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    March 2011    $ 735,225      (4,648 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    June 2011    $ 733,763      (4,685 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    September 2011    $ 732,300      (4,493 )

3

   Euro Dollar Futures

(90 Day)

  Chicago    December 2011    $ 730,688      (4,043 )
                   

Total

              $ (168,647 )
                   

 

 

Interest rate swaps outstanding as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Fixed Rate

  

Floating

Rate

  

Counterparty

   Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
5.50%    3-month LIBOR    Bank of America, N.A.    July 2009    USD 7,500    $ 161,750  
4.05%    3-month LIBOR    Barclays Bank, Plc    December 2009    USD 2,600      79,162  
1.76%    3-month LIBOR    Deutsche Bank AG    March 2011    USD 3,600      (26,675 )
5.11%    3-month LIBOR    UBS AG    November 2011    USD 9,100      964,213  
1.81%    3-month LIBOR    Citibank, N.A.    March 2012    USD 10,000      (36,725 )
3.77%    3-month LIBOR    Bank of America, N.A.    January 2013    USD 4,100      268,525  
4.27%    3-month LIBOR    Deutsche Bank AG    July 2013    USD 1,600      146,238  
2.53%    3-month LIBOR    Citibank, N.A.    March 2014    USD 3,500      (54,160 )
2.56%    3-month LIBOR    Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    March 2014    USD 3,500      (58,212 )
4.96%    3-month LIBOR    UBS AG    March 2015    USD 5,000      (719,220 )
4.50%    3-month LIBOR    JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    May 2015    USD 1,700      (226,511 )
4.39%    3-month LIBOR    Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    July 2015    USD 6,300      (760,870 )
5.30%    3-month LIBOR    UBS AG    February 2017    USD 6,700      1,285,186  
2.21%    3-month LIBOR    Goldman Sachs Bank USA    December 2018    USD 2,500      (124,734 )
2.30%    3-month LIBOR    Citibank, N.A.    December 2018    USD 2,200      (93,235 )
2.86%    3-month LIBOR    Goldman Sachs Bank USA    January 2019    USD 1,300      2,895  
2.71%    3-month LIBOR    Bank of America, N.A.    January 2019    USD 2,400      (26,633 )
2.90%    3-month LIBOR    Deutsche Bank AG    February 2019    USD 2,600      15,096  
3.22%    3-month LIBOR    Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    March 2019    USD 1,500      48,442  
3.06%    3-month LIBOR    Credit Suisse International    March 2019    USD 2,100      37,054  
2.82%    3-month LIBOR    Barclays Bank, Plc    March 2019    USD 1,000      (4,261 )
5.41%    3-month LIBOR    JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    August 2022    USD 1,130      295,097  
3.50%    3-month LIBOR    Barclays Bank, Plc    March 2040    USD 500      (13,193 )
                    
Total                $ 1,159,229  
                    

 

 

Credit default swaps on single-name issues - buy protection outstanding as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Issuer

   Pay Fixed Rate    

Counterparty

   Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)1
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Centex Corp.

   6.92 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2010    265    $ (10,497 )

 

22

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


Schedule of Investments (continued)   

 

Issuer

   Pay Fixed Rate    

Counterparty

   Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)1
   Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Knight, Inc.

   1.80 %   Credit Suisse International    January 2011    365    $ (1,925 )

Viacom, Inc.

   2.40 %   Deutsche Bank AG    June 2011    525      4,581  

KB Home

   4.90 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    September 2011    460      456  

Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc.

   2.90 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2011    360      (7,306 )

United Rentals N.A., Inc.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2012    500      953  

PolyOne Corp.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2012    140      (1,105 )

Ryland Group, Inc.

   4.51 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2012    165      (6,533 )

Macy’s, Inc.

   7.50 %   Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    June 2012    250      (1,624 )

D.R. Horton, Inc.

   5.04 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2013    525      (19,009 )

Expedia, Inc.

   5.00 %   Citibank, N.A.    September 2013    380      (3,345 )

Expedia, Inc.

   5.18 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    September 2013    175      (2,707 )

Centex Corp.

   4.40 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2013    330      (3,195 )

Tyson Foods, Inc.

   4.10 %   Barclays Bank, Plc    March 2014    445      (23,211 )

Hertz Global Holdings, Inc.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    March 2014    165      (16,305 )

Toll Brothers, Inc.

   2.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2014    155      (1,769 )

Idearc, Inc.

   5.00 %   Barclays Bank, Plc    June 2014    305      9,913  

D.R. Horton, Inc.

   5.07 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    September 2014    155      (8,839 )

Huntsman Corp.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    December 2014    175      (3,551 )

Energy Future Holdings Corp.

   5.00 %   Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.    December 2014    680      (30,119 )

Huntsman Corp.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    March 2015    85      5,953  

Pulte Homes, Inc.

   3.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2015    185      (5,588 )

Lennar Corp.

   5.86 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    June 2015    250      (11,740 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   Barclays Bank, Plc    December 2015    320      (11,244 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   Credit Suisse International    December 2015    130      (4,568 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   Goldman Sachs Bank USA    December 2015    85      (2,562 )

First Data Corp.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    December 2015    165      (5,797 )

Sabre Holdings Corp.

   5.00 %   JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association    March 2016    690      (40,827 )
                   

Total

              $ (201,510 )
                   

 

   

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009    23


Schedule of Investments (concluded)   

 

 

Credit default swaps on traded indexes - sold protection outstanding as of March 31, 2009 were as follows:

 

Index

   Receive Fixed Rate    

Counterparty

   Credit
Rating2
   Expiration    Notional
Amount
(000)1
   Unrealized
Depreciation
 

Commercial Mortgage-Backed North America Index Series 3

   0.08 %   Credit Suisse International    AAA    December 2049    USD 1,200    $ (279,947 )
                      

 

1

The maximum potential amount the Fund may pay should a negative credit event take place under the terms of the agreement.

2

Using Standard & Poor’s weighted average ratings of the underlying securities in the index.

 

 

For Portfolio compliance purposes, the Portfolio’s industry classifications refer to any one or more of the industry sub-classifications used by one or more widely recognized market indexes or ratings group indexes and/or as defined by Portfolio management. This definition may not apply for purposes of this report, which may combine industry sub-classifications for reporting ease.

 

 

Effective October 1, 2008, the Portfolio adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair values and requires additional disclosures about the use of fair value measurements. Various inputs are used in determining the fair value of investments, which are as follows:

 

   

Level 1 – price quotations in active markets/exchanges for identical securities

 

   

Level 2 – other observable inputs (including, but not limited to: quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in markets that are active, quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities (such as interest rates, yield curves, volatilities, prepayment speeds, loss severities, credit risks and default rates) or other market – corroborated inputs)

 

   

Level 3 – unobservable inputs based on the best information available in the circumstance, to the extent observable inputs are not available (including the Portfolio’s own assumptions used in determining the fair value of investments).

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. For information about the Portfolio’s policy regarding valuation of investments and other significant accounting policies, please refer to Note 1 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

The following table summarizes the inputs used as of March 31, 2009 in determining the fair valuation of the Portfolio’s investments:

 

Valuation Inputs

   Investments
in Securities
    Other Financial
Instruments **
 
   Assets    Liabilities     Assets    Liabilities  

Level 1

   $ 190,406,812    $ —       $ 2,920,778    $ (169,922 )

Level 2

     293,664,055      (42,484,794 )     3,427,700      (4,913,635 )

Level 3

     324,171      —         —        (279,947 )
                              

Total

   $ 484,395,038    $ (42,484,794 )   $ 6,348,478    $ (5,363,504 )
                              

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 investments for the period ended March 31, 2009:

 

     Investments
in Securities
    Other Financial
Instruments **
 
     Assets     Liabilities  

Balance, as of September 30, 2008

   $ 310,093     $ (818 )

Accrued discounts/premiums

     2,433       —    

Realized loss

     (221 )     —    

Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation***

     11,606       (279,129 )

Net sales

     (18,297 )     —    

Net transfers in of Level 3

     18,557       —    
                

Balance, as of March 31, 2009

   $ 324,171     $ (279,947 )
                

 

** Other financial instruments are futures, swaps, foreign currency exchange contracts and options. Futures, swaps and foreign currency exchange contracts are valued at the unrealized appreciation/depreciation on the instrument and options written are shown at market value.
*** Included in the related net change in appreciation/depreciation on the Statement of Operations.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

24

 

BLACKROCK ASSET ALLOCATION PORTFOLIO

   MARCH 31, 2009     


    (b) Not Applicable due to no such divestments during the semi-annual period covered since the previous Form N-CSR filing.
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 – The registrant’s Nominating and Governance Committee will consider nominees to the board of directors recommended by shareholders when a vacancy becomes available. Shareholders who wish to recommend a nominee should send nominations that include biographical information and set forth the qualifications of the proposed nominee to the registrant’s Secretary. There have been no material changes to these procedures.
Item 11     Controls and Procedures
11(a)     The registrant’s principal executive and principal financial officers or persons performing similar functions 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 effective as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report based on the evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act and Rule 15(d)-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
11(b)     There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act) that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Item 12     Exhibits attached hereto
12(a)(1)     Code of Ethics – Not Applicable to this semi-annual report
12(a)(2)     Certifications – Attached hereto
12(a)(3)     Not Applicable
12(b)     Certifications – Attached hereto


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.

 

BlackRock Funds

By:  

/s/ Donald C. Burke

 
  Donald C. Burke
  Chief Executive Officer of BlackRock Funds

Date:

  May 20, 2009

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/ Donald C. Burke

 
  Donald C. Burke  
  Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) of BlackRock Funds

Date:

  May 20, 2009

 

By:  

/s/ Neal J. Andrews

 
  Neal J. Andrews  
  Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer) of BlackRock Funds

Date:

  May 20, 2009