ASCE

ASCE is actively managed and invests primarily in equity securities of small- and medium-cap US companies, within the Russell 2500 Index range. Up to 20% of total assets may be allocated to foreign issuers in developed markets, including ADRs. The fund combines quantitative methods with qualitative analysis in selecting companies believed to be relatively undervalued with possible future earnings. The quantitative method is based on a proprietary alpha model which ranks securities based on valuation, quality, and momentum. The qualitative analysis, on the other hand, includes management evaluation, products, competition, and risk. A focused portfolio of approximately 50 securities diversified across major sectors is curated, avoiding issuers with significant alcohol, gaming, or tobacco business. Cash or money market instruments may also be held for liquidity or short-term defensive investments, which may impact the funds objectives during such periods.