Under normal circumstances, we will invest at least 80% of the Fund's net assets in fixed income securities (the 80% policy). This is not a fundamental policy and can be changed without shareholder approval. However, shareholders would be given notice at least 60 days prior to any change in the 80% Policy.
The Fund will invest at least 65% of its net assets in domestic (U.S.) investment grade debt securities (the "core" portion of the portfolio). Such securities may include, but are not limited to, debt securities issued by the U.S. Government and its agencies, high-quality corporate bonds, mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities. In addition to this core allocation, the Fund may also invest in high yielding, lower quality corporate bonds (also called "junk bonds") and foreign securities. However, the Fund may invest no more than 20% of its net assets in high yield securities and no more than 20% of its net assets in foreign securities. Moreover, the Fund's total non-U.S. dollar currency exposure will be limited, in aggregate, to no more than 10% of net assets, and the Fund's investments in emerging markets securities will be limited to no more than 5% of the Fund's net assets. Due to the manner in which the Fund is managed, it may be subject to a high rate of portfolio turnover.
The Fund may hold a substantial portion of its assets in cash or short-term fixed income obligations in unusual market conditions, to meet redemption requests, for temporary defensive purposes, and pending investment. The Fund may also use a wide range of derivative instruments, including options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts and swaps, subject to certain limitations. The Fund will limit its investments in derivative instruments to 20% of net assets. The Fund will use derivatives for defensive purposes, such as to protect gains or hedge against potential losses in the portfolio without actually selling a security, to neutralize the impact of interest rate changes, to affect diversification or to earn additional income. The Fund will not use derivatives for reasons inconsistent with its investment objective.
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