United Global Resources Fund

Transcription

1 United Global Resources Fund Annual Report for the financial year ended 31 st December 2017

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3 MANAGER UOB Asset Management Ltd Registered Address: 80 Raffles Place UOB Plaza Singapore Company Registration No. : Z Tel: DIRECTORS OF UOB ASSET MANAGEMENT Lee Wai Fai Eric Tham Kah Jin Peh Kian Heng Thio Boon Kiat TRUSTEE State Street Trust (SG) Limited 168 Robinson Road #33-01, Capital Tower Singapore CUSTODIAN / ADMINISTRATOR / REGISTRAR State Street Bank and Trust Company, acting through its Singapore Branch 168 Robinson Road #33-01, Capital Tower Singapore AUDITOR PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 7 Straits View, Marina One East Tower, Level 12 Singapore

4 A) Fund Performance 3 mth % Growth 6 mth % Growth 1 yr % Growth 3 yr Ann Comp Ret 5 yr Ann Comp Ret 10 yr Ann Comp Ret Since Inception 29 May 2006 Ann Comp Ret Fund Performance/ Benchmark Returns United Global Resources Fund Benchmark Source: Note: Lipper, a Thomson Reuters Company. The performance returns of the Fund are in Singapore Dollar based on a NAV-to-NAV basis, with dividends and distributions reinvested, if any. The benchmark of the Fund: Since Inception 30 Sep 16: Absolute return benchmark of 6% per annum; 1 Oct Current : composite index of 30% MSCI AC World Materials, 35% MSCI AC World Metals & Mining and 35% MSCI AC World Energy. For the twelve months ended 31 December 2017, the net asset value of the Fund increased by 9.80%, underperforming the weighted benchmark of 14.35%, in Singapore Dollar terms. The benchmark is composed of: 35% MSCI ACWI Metals & Mining Sector Index which increased 23.8% over the reporting period; 30% MSCI ACWI Material Sector Index rising 20.3%; and 35% MSCI ACWI Energy Sector Index which dipped 0.5%, in Singapore Dollar terms. The Fund s performance reflected improved pricing for the majority of the commodity spectrum during the reporting period, which resulted in an upward re-rating of the share prices of listed commodity producers. However, exploration and production (E&P) companies were relative underperformers and the Fund was negatively impacted by its exposure to this sub-sector. The US Dollar had rallied in the immediate aftermath of President Trump s election in November The inability of the new administration to turn its policies into actual legislation saw the US Dollar index falling by 9.9% in Trump s main success were the tax reforms contained in his Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which was signed into law on 22 December Bulk commodities saw a strong start at the beginning of the reporting period, weathering supply shocks in Australia. They remained at elevated levels due to domestic Chinese supply cuts and the ongoing strength in the Chinese housing market. Prices remained high at year-end due to expectations of another La Nina weather event affecting Australian supply. The Fund saw positive performances by large diversified miners such as BHP Billiton, Glencore and Rio Tinto. Base metals prices saw a mixed first half, but finished 2017 strongly as Chinese production cuts and general underinvestment in new supply factored into a noticeable impact on global inventory levels. Base metals companies such as Independence Group, Lundin Mining, Sandfire and Western Areas all benefited from an upward movement in metal prices. The Energy sector saw a mixed performance. Strong global demand then saw prices rally in 2H17, particularly after the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) extended its production cuts. The Fund benefitted by holdings in oil majors such as Royal Dutch Shell and Total. However, the Fund was negatively impacted by sharp price declines in E&P holdings such as Africa Oil and Hess, despite both companies benefiting from strong funding positions and general positive news flow. Physical gold prices benefitted from by weakness in the US Dollar and geopolitical uncertainty. The Fund was helped by its holdings in listed gold and silver companies such as Evolution Mining and Pretium Resources. As at end-december 2017, the Fund s allocation in the various investment sectors was: Materials (62.39%), Energy (38.02%) and Cash (-0.41%). In terms of asset allocation by geographical regions, the Fund was invested in: Canada (24.63%), Australia (23.20%), United Kingdom (19.07%), United States (18.16%), Switzerland (5.60%) and other countries (9.75%). -2-

5 A) Fund Performance (continued) Economic and Market Review 2017 began with expectations of a US economic boom, based on the Trump administration s plans to lower corporate and personal tax rates, regulations and invest in domestic infrastructure. This was viewed positively for both the US Dollar and for commodity prices, with investors anticipating that a pick-up in US demand would augment ongoing strength in China and other emerging markets. This optimistic view resulted in a broad-based rally in base metal and bulk commodity prices in the first quarter of 2017 (1Q17), with coking coal prices particularly strong given weather-related supply disruption in Australia. By 2Q17, political headwinds and overwhelmingly negative press reports raised doubts as to Trump s ability to advance his policy agenda. Despite the lack of progress, anticipation of stronger US economic growth and higher inflation saw the US Federal Reserve (Fed) pivoting to a tightening stance on monetary policy. This was despite some divergence in the US economic outlook, with surveys of future expectations painting a bullish outlook compared to a more mixed picture from actual monthly data. By mid-year, commodity prices were correcting sharply as investors reconsidered their earlier optimism. Such concerns were fueled by events in China, the world s largest crude oil importer and consumer of base metals and bulk commodities. Early weakness in China s economic data was compounded by volatility in the finance sector after Chinese regulators began to impose tighter regulations on non-bank financial products. This fueled the sharp sell-off in commodity prices in 2Q17. Fortunately, these market jitters proved temporary as Chinese economic data began to strengthen from June 2017 onwards. This fueled a 2H17 rally in base metals and bulk commodity prices, with pricing helped both by resurgent demand and by the continuing efforts to improve Chinese air quality by closing low-quality domestic production. China s buoyant economic conditions are shown by 2017 official GDP growth of 6.9%, with the National Bureau of Statistics reporting fixed asset investment growth of 7.2% year-on-year (yoy), property sales growth of 13.7% yoy and industrial production growth of 6.2% yoy. In recent years, commodity prices have had an inverse relationship with the US Dollar, with the strength of the latter leading to lower commodity prices. However, President Trump s continuing political and legislative problems saw the US Dollar weaken throughout 2H17, helping support the upward move in the majority of commodity prices, and supporting improve the profitability, cash flow and financial health of commodity producers. Although Trump eventually succeeded in passing his tax bill, this did not occur until late December Bulk commodity prices performed strongly during the year. Demand for Chinese infrastructure and housing was accompanied by ongoing steps by China s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) to reduce production of iron ore and coal by small or unlicensed domestic producers. These steps continued to be aggressively enforced, with surprise inspections and punitive penalties for transgressors. Higher steel prices and improved operating margins were particularly beneficial to producers of high grade product. Base metals prices moved higher during the reporting period, with solid demand leading to further declines in inventory levels. The sharp fall in capital expenditure on new supply lead to a significant tightening in the supply / demand balance for individual metals such as zinc, lead and tin. This is supportive of future pricing, given the often significant lead times between new mine investment and first production. Energy prices had a mixed year. Crude oil markets started the reporting period with a high level of speculative interest, but then saw prices weaken to below US$45 per barrel (bbl) as investors grew concerned over strong US onshore production, high US inventory levels and OPEC s ability to maintain supply discipline. Confidence only returned as OPEC maintained supply discipline and as US inventories fell consistently throughout the US driving season. Crude oil prices finished the year in an up-trend, with Brent pricing above US$65/bbl after OPEC and Russia extended its production cuts through to December Physical gold started the year at US$1,152/oz and ended the reporting period at US$1,303/oz, increasing by 13%. This was despite three US interest rate hikes during The prospect of higher US real rates would normally be viewed as a negative for gold. However, the potential for widening US trade and fiscal deficits concerned investors, as did rumours of diversification of global foreign reserves away from the US Dollar. Gold also benefited from uncertainty over the Trump administration s response to various geopolitical challenges. -3-

6 A) Fund Performance (continued) Outlook and Strategy Forecasts for the global economy are upbeat, with expected 2018 GDP growth in excess of 3.0%. Ongoing strength in industrial production and manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) data are encouringing. All major regional economies are growing, with the highest growth forecasts centered on emerging markets, which also have the highest propensity for commodity consumption. In fact, there is a concern that global growth may be too strong, leading to rising inflationary pressures as capacity utilisation rates climb and labour markets tighten. Policy makers are already taking steps to decrease monetary stimulus and raise interest rates. However, the coming year should still see an overall net expansion in monetary stimulus. After growing balance sheets by an aggregate 17.0% in 2017, current policy statements from the Fed, European Central Bank (ECB) and Bank of Japan (BOJ) would still see an aggregate balance sheet expansion of 4.4% over the coming year. While the Fed is already in tightening mode, it is the expected reduction in stimulus by the ECB and BOJ that may gain the most attention and result in the Euro and Japanese Yen strengthening against the US Dollar. This could be bullish for commodity prices, which have been negatively correlated to the US Dollar in recent years. President Trump will be looking to build on the December 2017 tax cuts, which represented his administration s first policy success. Trump is now expected to push for a significant increase in domestic infrastructure spending, and will probably aim to pass relevant legislation ahead of the important November 2018 mid-term elections. The Fund believes that infrastructure-related spending by other countries, such as China s One Belt, One Road initiative, should also be positive for commodity demand and pricing. There was a clear tightening in commodity supply-demand balances in 2017, particularly for base metals. However, management teams continue to be cautious given the weak market conditions in recent years. Most commodity companies remain reluctant to invest in new projects, and may need a prolonged period of higher pricing to move into expansionary mode. This has positive implications for near-term free cashflows, net debt levels and expected dividend yields. The Fund will maintain its policy of investing in resource companies with strong balance sheets and low production costs relative to their sector. However, the Fund will also look for producers that are nearing completion of growth projects, since such companies offer potential gains from both volume and pricing. The Fund expects continued strength in the Energy sector in the coming year, based on continued OPEC production discipline and on the prospective listing of Saudi Aramco, the world s largest crude oil producer. Saudi Arabia will be aware that Saudi Aramco will be more attractive in both a higher and stable oil price environment. A sharp increase in onshore US shale oil production could pose a risk to energy prices, but there are signs that US producers are starting to prefer profitability over volume growth. The Fund has a current preference for super-majors, which are generating strong free cash flow and offer healthy dividend yields. The outlook for liquefied natural gas (LNG) producers is healthy, but we remain cautious on domestic US gas producers given significant onshore supply. Gold-related assets should remain a relative safe haven for investors concerned by geopolitical or currency risk. The Fund expects to maintain some exposure to listed gold companies as a way of hedging both potential inflationary pressures and unexpected volatility in global growth. The outlook for agricultural commodities remains lacklustre given recent good harvests and resulting high crop-to-use levels. The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology shows a mild La Nina reading, but there have been no reports of a negative impact on South American crop production. The only positive factor is that crop prices are inexpensive from a historical perspective and have the potential to rally on unexpected weather-related events. The Fund expects to have some exposure to fertilizer companies given current low valuations. The price movements of commodity and related listed commodity companies can be volatile and investors should expect both strong rallies as well as sharp corrections. However, the possibility of a weaker US Dollar, continued strength in global industrial production and limited new supply should be supportive for commodity prices in the medium term. In addition, we believe the curtailment of Chinese domestic production will move markets into balance, and could represent a good buying opportunity ahead of a demand-driven price recovery. -4-

7 B) Investments at fair value and as a percentage of net asset value ( NAV ) as at 31 December 2017 under review classified by i) Country Fair Value (S$) % of NAV Australia 2,923, Belgium 189, Canada 3,103, France 387, Germany 266, Hong Kong 239, India 143, Switzerland 705, United Kingdom 2,402, United States 2,288, Portfolio of investments 12,650, Other net assets/(liabilities) (51,472) (0.41) Total 12,598, ii) Industry Fair Value (S$) % of NAV Energy 4,789, Materials 7,860, Portfolio of investments 12,650, Other net assets/(liabilities) (51,472) (0.41) Total 12,598, iii) Asset Class Fair Value (S$) % of NAV Quoted equities 12,650, Other net assets/(liabilities) (51,472) (0.41) Total 12,598, iv) Credit rating of quoted bonds N/A -5-

8 C) Top Ten Holdings 10 largest holdings as at 31 December 2017 Fair Value (S$) Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders % ROYAL DUTCH SHELL PLC B SHARES 793, HESS CORP 792, SINO GAS & ENERGY HOLDINGS LTD 729, RIO TINTO PLC 712, GLENCORE PLC 705, PRETIUM RESOURCES INC 611, TREVALI MINING CORP 567, EVOLUTION MINING LTD 553, AFRICA OIL CORP 531, BHP BILLITON PLC 522, largest holdings as at 31 December 2016 Percentage of total net assets attributable to Fair Value unitholders (S$) % AFRICA OIL CORP 1,013, HESS CORP 674, ROYAL DUTCH SHELL PLC B SHARE 630, SINO GAS & ENERGY HOLDINGS LTD 593, RIO TINTO PLC 563, EVOLUTION MINING LTD 532, GLENCORE PLC 495, SANDFIRE RESOURCES NL 442, COBALT INTERNATIONAL ENERGY INC 440, FIRST RESOURCES LTD 380,

9 D) Exposure to derivatives i) Fair value of derivative contracts and as a percentage of NAV as at 31 December 2017 N/A Contract or underlying principal amount Positive fair value % of NAV Negative fair value $ $ $ % of NAV Foreign currency contracts 4, * 10 -* ii) There was a net realised loss of SGD 4,564 on derivative contracts during the financial year ended 31 December iii) There was a net unrealised loss of SGD 9 on outstanding derivative contracts marked to market as at 31 December E) Amount and percentage of NAV invested in other schemes as at 31 December 2017 N/A F) Amount and percentage of borrowings to NAV as at 31 December 2017 N/A G) Amount of redemptions and subscriptions for the financial year ended 31 December 2017 Total amount of redemptions SGD 3,996,062 Total amount of subscriptions SGD 1,563,443 H) The amount and terms of related-party transactions for the financial year ended 31 December 2017 Please refer to Note 9 of the Notes to the Financial Statements. I) Expense ratios Please refer to Note 10 of the Notes to the Financial Statements. J) Turnover ratios Please refer to Note 10 of the Notes to the Financial Statements. K) Any material information that will adversely impact the valuation of the scheme such as contingent liabilities of open contracts N/A -7-

10 L) For schemes which invest more than 30% of their deposited property in another scheme, the following key information on the second-mentioned scheme ( the underlying scheme ) 1 should be disclosed as well i) Top 10 holdings at fair value and as percentage of NAV as at 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2016 N/A ii) Expense ratios for the financial year ended 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2016 N/A iii) Turnover ratios for the financial year ended 31 December 2017 and 31 December 2016 N/A 1 Where the underlying scheme is managed by a foreign manager which belongs to the same group of companies as, or has a formal arrangement or investment agreement with, the Singapore manager, the above information should be disclosed on the underlying scheme. In other cases, such information on the underlying scheme should be disclosed only if it is readily available to the Singapore manager. M) Soft dollar commissions/arrangements UOB Asset Management has entered into soft dollars arrangements with selected brokers from whom products and services are received from third parties. The products and services relate essentially to computer hardware and software to the extent that they are used to support the investment decision making process, research and advisory services, economic and political analyses, portfolio analyses including performance measurements, market analyses, data and quotation services, all of which are believed to be helpful in the overall discharge of UOB Asset Management s duties to clients. As such services generally benefit all of UOB Asset Management s clients in terms of input into the investment decision making process, the soft credits utilised are not allocated on a specific client basis. The Manager confirms that trades were executed on a best execution basis and there was no churning of trades. N) Where the scheme offers pre-determined payouts, an explanation on the calculation of the actual payouts received by participants and any significant deviation from the pre-determined payouts N/A -8-

11 REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE The Trustee is under a duty to take into custody and hold the assets of United Global Resources Fund (the Fund ) in trust for the unitholders. In accordance with the Securities and Futures Act (Cap. 289), its subsidiary legislation and the Code on Collective Investment Schemes, the Trustee shall monitor the activities of the Manager for compliance with the limitations imposed on the investment and borrowing powers as set out in the Trust Deed in each annual accounting year and report thereon to unitholders in an annual report. To the best knowledge of the Trustee, the Manager has, in all material respects, managed the Fund during the financial year covered by these financial statements, set out on pages 13 to 33, in accordance with the limitations imposed on the investment and borrowing powers set out in the Trust Deed. For and on behalf of the Trustee STATE STREET TRUST (SG) LIMITED Authorised signatory 29 March

12 STATEMENT BY THE MANAGER In the opinion of UOB Asset Management Ltd, the accompanying financial statements set out on pages 13 to 33, comprising the Statement of Total Return, Statement of Financial Position, Statement of Movements of Unitholders Funds, Statement of Portfolio and Notes to the Financial Statements are drawn up so as to present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position and portfolio holdings of United Global Resources Fund (the Fund ) as at 31 December 2017, and the financial performance and movements of unitholders funds for the year then ended in accordance with the recommendations of Statement of Recommended Accounting Practice 7 Reporting Framework for Unit Trusts issued by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants. At the date of this statement, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Fund will be able to meet its financial obligations as and when they materialise. For and on behalf of the Manager UOB ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD THIO BOON KIAT Authorised signatory 29 March

13 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR S REPORT TO THE UNITHOLDERS OF UNITED GLOBAL RESOURCES FUND Our Opinion In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements of United Global Resources Fund (the Fund ), are properly drawn up in accordance with the recommendations of Statement of Recommended Accounting Practice 7 Reporting Framework for Unit Trusts issued by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants, so as to present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position and portfolio holdings of the Fund as at 31 December 2017, and of the financial performance and movements of unitholders funds for the financial year ended on that date. What we have audited The financial statements of the Fund comprise: the Statement of Total Return for the financial year ended 31 December 2017; the Statement of Financial Position as at 31 December 2017; the Statement of Movements of Unitholders Funds for the financial year ended 31 December 2017; the Statement of Portfolio as at 31 December 2017; and the notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant accounting policies. Basis for Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with Singapore Standards on Auditing ( SSAs ). Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. Independence We are independent of the Fund in accordance with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Public Accountants and Accounting Entities ( ACRA Code ) together with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in Singapore, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements and the ACRA Code. Other Information The Fund s Manager (the Manager ) is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises all sections of the annual report but does not include the financial statements and our auditor s report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not and will not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed on the other information, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Responsibilities of the Manager for the Financial Statements The Manager is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the recommendations of Statement of Recommended Accounting Practice 7 Reporting Framework for Unit Trusts issued by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants and for such internal control as the Manager determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. -11-

14 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR S REPORT TO THE UNITHOLDERS OF UNITED GLOBAL RESOURCES FUND In preparing the financial statements, the Manager is responsible for assessing the Fund s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Manager either intends to terminate the Fund or to cease the Fund s operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. The Manager s responsibilities include overseeing the Fund s financial reporting process. Auditor s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with SSAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. As part of an audit in accordance with SSAs, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Fund s internal control. Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Manager. Conclude on the appropriateness of the Manager s use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Fund s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Fund to cease to continue as a going concern. Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. We communicate with the Manager regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Public Accountants and Chartered Accountants Singapore, 29 March

15 STATEMENT OF TOTAL RETURN For the financial year ended 31 December Note $ $ Income Dividends 268, ,657 Interest 1,579 11,737 Total 270, ,394 Less: Expenses Management fee 9 186, ,555 Trustee fee 9 5,105 5,000 Audit fee 18,841 17,001 Registrar fee 9 15,636 15,380 Valuation fee 9 15,575 15,380 Custody fee 9 18,385 16,838 Transaction costs 53,620 60,038 Other expenses 71,693 40,801 Total 385, ,993 Net income/(losses) (115,671) (218,599) Net gains/(losses) on value of investments Net gains/(losses) on investments 1,288,071 4,131,101 Net gains/(losses) on financial derivatives (4,573) - Net foreign exchange gains/(losses) (23,374) (46,868) 1,260,124 4,084,233 Total return/(deficit) for the year before income tax 1,144,453 3,865,634 Less: Income tax 3 (25,672) (10,210) Total return/(deficit) for the year 1,118,781 3,855,424 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -13-

16 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at 31 December Note $ $ Assets Portfolio of investments 12,650,172 12,153,278 Receivables 4 51,315 39,598 Cash and bank balances 208, ,791 Fixed deposits - 1,006,004 Financial derivatives at fair value Total assets 12,910,226 14,030,671 Liabilities Payables 5 311, ,133 Financial derivatives at fair value Total liabilities 311, ,133 Equity Net assets attributable to unitholders 7 12,598,700 13,912,538 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -14-

17 STATEMENT OF MOVEMENTS OF UNITHOLDERS FUNDS For the financial year ended 31 December Note $ $ Net assets attributable to unitholders at the beginning of the financial year 13,912,538 10,205,588 Operations Change in net assets attributable to unitholders resulting from operations 1,118,781 3,855,424 Unitholders contributions/(withdrawals) Creation of units 1,563,443 4,650,384 Cancellation of units (3,996,062) (4,798,858) Change in net assets attributable to unitholders resulting from net creation and cancellation of units (2,432,619) (148,474) Total increase/(decrease) in net assets attributable to unitholders (1,313,838) 3,706,950 Net assets attributable to unitholders at the end of the financial year 7 12,598,700 13,912,538 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -15-

18 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 31 December 2017 Holdings at 31 December 2017 Fair value at 31 December 2017 $ Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2017 % By Geography - Primary Quoted Equities AUSTRALIA EVOLUTION MINING LTD 200, , FORTESCUE METALS GROUP LTD 75, , GALAXY RESOURCES LTD 110, , MINERAL RESOURCES LTD 10, , REGIS RESOURCES LTD 75, , SINO GAS & ENERGY HOLDINGS LTD 4,500, , SYRAH RESOURCES LTD 55, , TOTAL AUSTRALIA 2,923, BELGIUM UMICORE SA 3, , CANADA AFRICA OIL CORP 353, , FORTUNA SILVER MINES INC 35, , HUDBAY MINERALS INC 35, , NEVSUN RESOURCES LTD 35, , PRETIUM RESOURCES INC 40, , TECK RESOURCES LTD 10, , TREVALI MINING CORP 350, , VERMILION ENERGY INC 5, , TOTAL CANADA 3,103, FRANCE TOTAL SA 5, , GERMANY K+S AG 8, , HONG KONG CNOOC LTD 125, , The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -16-

19 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 31 December 2017 Holdings at 31 December 2017 Fair value at 31 December 2017 $ Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2017 % By Geography - Primary (continued) Quoted Equities INDIA COAL INDIA LTD 26, , SWITZERLAND GLENCORE PLC 100, , UNITED KINGDOM BHP BILLITON PLC 19, , RIO TINTO PLC 10, , ROYAL DUTCH SHELL PLC B SHARES 17, , TULLOW OIL PLC 100, , TOTAL UNITED KINGDOM 2,402, UNITED STATES CHEVRON CORP 1, , EXXON MOBIL CORP 2, , HESS CORP 12, , NEWMONT MINING CORP 7, , NUCOR CORP 3, , THE MOSAIC CO 8, , TOTAL UNITED STATES 2,288, Total Equities 12,650, Portfolio of investments 12,650, Other net assets/(liabilities) (51,472) (0.41) Net assets attributable to unitholders 12,598, The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -17-

20 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 31 December 2017 Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2017 % Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2016 % By Geography - Primary (Summary) Quoted Equities Australia Belgium Canada France Germany Hong Kong India Norway Singapore South Korea Switzerland United Kingdom United States Portfolio of investments Other net assets/(liabilities) (0.41) Net assets attributable to unitholders The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -18-

21 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 31 December 2017 Fair value at 31 December 2017 $ Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2017 % Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2016 % By Industry - Secondary Quoted Equities Consumer Staples Energy 4,789, Materials 7,860, Portfolio of investments 12,650, Other net assets/(liabilities) (51,472) (0.41) Net assets attributable to unitholders 12,598, The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. -19-

22 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December 2017 These notes form an integral part of and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements. 1 General United Global Resources Fund (the Fund ) is a Singapore-registered trust fund constituted under a Trust Deed dated 13 April 2006 between UOB Asset Management Ltd (the Manager ) and HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited (the Retired Trustee ). The Deed is governed by the laws of the Republic of Singapore. With effect from 1 April 2017, the Trustee of the Fund has changed from HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited to State Street Trust (SG) Limited (the Trustee ). The investment objective of the Fund is to achieve long term capital growth by investing in securities (equities or equity-related securities) issued by companies in the resources, commodities and energy sectors globally. Subscriptions and redemptions of the units are denominated in the Singapore Dollar and the United States Dollar. Investors may subscribe in the United States Dollar at the applicable rate of exchange from the Singapore Dollar. 2 Significant accounting policies (a) Basis of preparation The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified by the revaluation of financial assets held at fair value through profit or loss, and in accordance with the recommendations of Statement of Recommended Accounting Practice 7 Reporting Framework for Unit Trusts issued by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants. The Fund has adopted the following Singapore Financial Reporting Standards ( FRS ) and related amendments in accordance with the recommendations of the RAP 7 issued in March 2017 for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2016: (i) Consolidation and disclosure of interests in other entities FRS 110 Consolidated financial statements FRS 112 Disclosure of interests in other entities Amendments to FRS 110, FRS 112 and FRS 27 Investment entities FRS 110 and the amendments define an investment entity and introduce an exception from the consolidation requirements for investments entities. FRS 112 and the amendments require entities to disclose significant judgements and assumptions made in determining whether the entity controls, jointly controls, significantly influences or has some interests in other entities. Entities are also required to provide disclosure around certain structured entities. The amendments to FRS 112 introduce new disclosure requirements related to investment entities. (ii) Offsetting financial assets and liabilities disclosures Amendments to FRS 32 Financial instruments: Presentation - Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities Amendments to FRS 107 Disclosures - Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities The amendments to FRS 32 provide clarification on the offsetting criteria in FRS 32 and address inconsistencies in their application. The amendments to FRS 107 require additional disclosures to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the effect or the potential effects of netting arrangements, including rights of set-off associated with an entity s recognised financial assets and recognised financial liabilities, on the entity s financial position. The adoption of these new or amended FRS impacted the Fund s level of disclosures in certain of the above noted areas, but did not result in substantial changes to the accounting policies of the Fund and had no material effect on the amounts reported for the current or prior years. -20-

23 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December Significant accounting policies (continued) (b) Recognition of income Dividend income is recognised when the right to receive payment is established. Interest income is recognised on a time proportion basis using the effective interest method. (c) Investments Investments are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss. (i) Initial recognition Purchases of investments are recognised on the trade date. Investments are recorded at fair value on initial recognition. (ii) Subsequent measurement Investments are subsequently carried at fair value. Net changes in fair value on investments are included in the Statement of Total Return in the year in which they arise. (iii) Derecognition Investments are derecognised on the trade date of disposal. The resultant realised gains and losses on the sale of investments are computed on the basis of the difference between the weighted average cost and selling price gross of transaction costs, and are taken up in the Statement of Total Return. (d) Basis of valuation of investments The fair value of financial assets and liabilities traded in active markets is based on quoted market prices at the close of trading on the financial year end date. The quoted market price used for investments held by the Fund is the last traded market price for both financial assets and financial liabilities where the last traded price falls within the bid-ask spread. In circumstances where the last traded price is not within the bid-ask spread, the Manager will determine the point within the bid-ask spread that is most representative of fair value. (e) Foreign currency translation (i) Functional and presentation currency The Fund s investors are mainly from Singapore with the subscriptions and redemptions of the units denominated in the Singapore Dollar and the United States Dollar. The performance of the Fund is measured and reported to the investors in the Singapore Dollar. The Manager considers the Singapore Dollar as the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Fund operate. The financial statements are presented in the Singapore Dollar, which is the Fund s functional and presentation currency. (ii) Transactions and balances Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the Statement of Total Return. Translation differences on non-monetary financial assets and liabilities are also recognised in the Statement of Total Return within Net gains/losses on investments. -21-

24 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December Significant accounting policies (continued) (f) Expenses charged to the Fund All direct expenses relating to the Fund are charged directly to the Statement of Total Return. In addition, certain expenses shared by all unit trusts managed by the Manager are allocated to each fund based on the respective fund s net asset value. (g) Financial derivatives Financial derivatives including forwards and swaps may be entered into for the purposes efficient portfolio management, tactical asset allocation or specific hedging of financial assets held as determined by the Manager and in accordance with the provision of the Trust Deed and the Code on Collective Investment Schemes. Financial derivatives outstanding on the financial year end date are valued at the forward rate or at the current market prices using the mark-to-market method, as applicable, and the resultant gains and losses are taken up in the Statement of Total Return. (h) Distributions The Manager has the absolute discretion to determine whether a distribution is to be made. In such an event, an appropriate amount will be transferred to a distribution account, to be paid out on the distribution date. The amount shall not be treated as part of the property of the Fund. Distributions are accrued for at the financial year end date if the necessary approvals have been obtained and a legal or constructive obligation has been created. (i) Offsetting financial instruments Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported in the Statement of Financial Position when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. The legally enforceable right must not be contingent on future events and must be enforceable in the normal course of business and in the event of default, insolvency or bankruptcy of the Fund or the counterparty. 3 Income tax $ $ Overseas income tax 25,672 10,210 The Fund was granted the status of Designated Unit Trust ( DUT ) in Singapore. The Trustee of the Fund ensures that the Fund fulfill their reporting obligations under the DUT Scheme. Under the DUT Scheme, subject to certain conditions and reporting obligations being met, certain income of the DUT Fund is not taxable in accordance with Sections 35(12) and 35(12A) of the Income Tax Act. Such income includes: (i) (ii) (iii) gains or profits derived from Singapore or elsewhere from the disposal of securities; interest (other than interest for which tax has been deducted under Section 45 of the Income Tax Act); dividends derived from outside Singapore and received in Singapore; -22-

25 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December Income tax (continued) (iv) (v) (vi) gains or profits derived from foreign exchange transactions, transactions in futures contracts, transactions in interest rate or currency forwards, swaps or option contracts and transactions in forwards, swaps or option contracts relating to any securities or financial index; discount, prepayment fee, redemption premium and break cost from qualifying debt securities issued during the prescribed period; and distributions from foreign unit trusts derived from outside Singapore and received in Singapore. The overseas income tax represents tax withheld on foreign sourced income. 4 Receivables $ $ Amounts receivable for creation of units 29,052 22,985 Dividends receivable 8,714 1,490 Other receivables 13,549 15,123 51,315 39,598 5 Payables $ $ Amount payable for cancellation of units 230,580 40,872 Amount due to the Manager 50,953 54,732 Amount due to Trustee 1,274 1,400 Tax payables 2,517 - Other creditors and accrued expenses 26,192 21, , ,

26 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December Fair value of financial derivatives Financial derivatives contracts comprise foreign currency contracts for the sale and purchase of foreign currencies. The contract or underlying principal amounts of these financial derivatives and their corresponding gross positive or negative fair values at the financial year end date are analysed below. Contract or underlying principal amount Contract or underlying Positive Negative principal Positive fair value fair value amount fair value Negative fair value $ $ $ $ $ $ Foreign currency contracts 4, Units in issue During the financial year ended 31 December 2017 and 2016, the numbers of units issued, redeemed and outstanding were as follows: Units at the beginning of the financial year 23,469,321 23,823,226 Units created 2,701,465 8,934,958 Units cancelled (6,789,784) (9,288,863) Units at the end of the financial year* 19,381,002 23,469,321 *Included above are units denominated in USD 7,814,109 10,056,566 $ $ Net assets attributable to unitholders 12,598,700 13,912,538 Net assets value per unit There is no difference between the net assets attributable to unitholders per unit per financial statements and the net assets attributable to unitholders per unit for issuing/redeeming of units. 8 Financial risk management The Fund s activities expose it to a variety of market risks (including currency risk, interest rate risk and price risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Fund s overall risk management programme seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Fund s financial performance. The Fund may use futures contracts, financial options contracts and/or foreign currency contracts subject to the terms of the Trust Deed to moderate certain risk exposures. Specific guidelines on exposures to individual securities and certain industries are in place for the Fund at any time as part of the overall financial risk management to reduce the Fund s risk exposures. -24-

27 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December Financial risk management (continued) The Fund s assets principally consist of financial instruments such as equity investments and cash. They are held in accordance with the published investment policies of the Fund. The allocation of assets between the various types of investments is determined by the Manager to achieve its investment objectives. (a) Market risk Market risk is the risk of loss arising from uncertainty concerning movements in market prices and rates, including observable variables such as interest rates, credit spreads, exchange rates, and others that may be only indirectly observable such as volatilities and correlations. Market risk includes such factors as changes in economic environment, consumption pattern and investor s expectation etc. which may have significant impact on the value of the investments. The Fund s investments are substantially dependent on changes in market prices and are monitored by the Manager on a regular basis so as to assess changes in fundamentals and valuation. Although the Manager makes reasonable efforts in the choice of investments, events beyond reasonable control of the Manager could affect the prices of the underlying investments and hence the asset value of the Fund. Guidelines are set to reduce the Fund s risk exposures to market volatility such as diversifying the portfolio by investing across various geographies, alternatively, the Fund may be hedged using derivative strategies. (i) Foreign exchange risk The Fund has monetary financial assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the Singapore Dollar and it may be affected favourably or unfavourably by exchange rate regulations or changes in the exchange rates between the Singapore Dollar and such other currencies. The Manager may at his discretion, implement a currency management strategy either to reduce currency volatility or to hedge the currency exposures of the Fund. The table below summarises the Fund s exposure to foreign currencies at the end of the financial year. As at 31 December 2017 SGD USD CAD AUD GBP Others Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Assets Portfolio of investments - 2,288,318 2,572,422 2,923,346 3,107,747 1,758,339 12,650,172 Receivables 41,931 2,916 1, ,209 51,315 Cash and bank balances 47, ,711 3, , ,738 Total Assets 89,222 2,428,945 2,577,281 2,923,346 3,107,747 1,783,684 12,910,225 Liabilities Payables 170, , , ,516 Total Liabilities 170, , , ,516 Foreign currency contracts (notional value) 4,117 (527) (3,590) Net currency exposure (77,050) 2,289,157 2,573,378 2,923,346 3,107,747 1,782,

28 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December Financial risk management (continued) (a) Market risk (continued) (i) Foreign exchange risk (continued) As at 31 December 2016 SGD USD CAD AUD GBP Others Total $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Assets Portfolio of investments 380,000 2,480,174 2,678,129 3,803,621 2,318, ,122 12,153,278 Receivables 27,422 12, ,598 Fixed deposits 1,006, ,006,004 Cash and bank balances 766,944 64, ,791 Total Assets 2,180,370 2,557,197 2,678,129 3,803,621 2,318, ,122 14,030,671 Liabilities Payables 102,722 15, ,133 Total Liabilities 102,722 15, ,133 Net currency exposure 2,077,648 2,541,786 2,678,129 3,803,621 2,318, ,122 Investments, which is the significant item in the Statement of Financial Position is exposed to currency risk and other price risk. The other price risk sensitivity analysis includes the impact of currency risk on non-monetary investments. The Fund s net financial assets comprise significantly non-monetary investments, hence currency risk sensitivity analysis has not been performed on the remaining financial assets. (ii) Price risk Price risk is the risk of potential adverse changes to the value of financial investments because of changes in market conditions and volatility in security prices. The table below summarises the impact of increases/decreases from the Fund s investments in equities on the Fund s net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2017 and The analysis is based on the assumption that the index components within the benchmark increased/decreased by a reasonable possible shift, with all other variables held constant and that the fair value of the Fund s investments moved according to the historical correlation with the index. Benchmark component 2017 Net impact to net assets attributable to unitholders 2016 Net impact to net assets attributable to unitholders $ % $ % 30% MSCI AC World Materials,35% MSCI AC World Metals & Mining and 35% MSCI AC World Energy 2,580, ,333,