SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT. For the financial period ending 31 December ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund

Transcription

1 SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT For the financial period ending 31 December 2017 ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund

2 MANAGERS Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited 12 Marina View, #18-02, Asia Square Tower 2, Singapore Company Registration No H DIRECTORS Lim Soon Chong Junichi Sayato Seet Oon Hui Eleanor David Jonathan Semaya Yu-Ming Wang TRUSTEE & REGISTRAR HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited 21 Collyer Quay, #13-02 HSBC Building Singapore AUDITORS PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 7 Straits View, Marina One, East Tower, Level 12, Singapore (With effect from 2 January 2018) CUSTODIAN The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited 1 Queen s Road Central, Hong Kong This report is also available on our website ( 1

3 PERFORMANCE SUMMARY Returns (%) 3 Mth 6 Mth 1 Yr 3 Yr 5 Yr 10 Yr iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index total return series Since Inception ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund Source: Markit & Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited, returns as at 31 December iboxx is a mark of Markit Indices Limited and have been licensed for use by Nikko Asset Management Asia Ltd. Returns are calculated on a NAV-NAV 1 basis, in SGD, and assuming all dividends and distributions are reinvested, if any. Returns for period in excess of 1 year are annualised. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Note: (1) Nil subscription fee or preliminary charge Inception date: 31 August 2005 About ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund The ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund (the Fund ) is Singapore s first exchange traded bond fund. The Fund invests in a portfolio of high quality, Singapore government and quasi government bonds. It closely tracks the basket of bonds in the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index. The target tracking error of the fund is set at not more than 0.4% per annum. The Fund is a collective investment scheme, authorised in Singapore and listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the SGX-ST ). The Fund is an index fund which seeks investment results that correspond closely to the total return of the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index before fees and expenses. The iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index is an indicator of investment returns of debt obligations denominated in Singapore dollars issued or guaranteed by the government of Singapore or any government of People s Republic of China, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore or Thailand (collectively, the Asian Governments ), by an agency or instrumentality of the Singapore government (or any other Asian Government), by a Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) sponsored entity or a quasi- Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) entity and Singapore dollar denominated debt obligations issued by supranational financial institutions. The Index Provider determines the composition of the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index in accordance with its rules and procedures for the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index (which may change from time to time), and publishes information regarding the composition, investment characteristics and return of the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index. The Fund is suitable for investors who seek an index-based approach to investing in a portfolio of Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) sovereign and quasi-sovereign bond securities in a cost effective and easy to access manner. Units may also be used as an asset allocation tool or as a trading instrument. Whilst the Fund invests in a portfolio of bonds issued by the Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) and quasi-sovereign Singapore (or any other Asian Government) entities, the Fund itself is not guaranteed by the Singapore government, any Singapore government agency or any government or government agency of any other country. Note: Investors are advised to refer to the Fund s prospectus for more details on the Fund. 2

4 IMPORTANT INFORMATION This document is for information only with no consideration given to the specific investment objective, financial situation and particular needs of any specific person. Any securities mentioned herein are for illustration purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation for investment. You should seek advice from a financial adviser before making any investment. In the event that you choose not to do so, you should consider whether the investment selected is suitable for you. Investments in unit trusts are not deposits in, obligations of, or guaranteed or insured by Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited ( Nikko AM Asia ). Past performance or any prediction, projection or forecast is not indicative of future performance. The funds may use or invest in financial derivative instruments. The value of units and income from them may fall or rise. Investments in the funds are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of principal amount invested. You should read the relevant prospectus and product highlights sheet obtainable from appointed distributors of Nikko AM Asia or our website ( before investing. The information contained herein may not be copied, reproduced or redistributed without the express consent of Nikko AM Asia. While reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information as at the date of publication, Nikko AM Asia does not give any warranty or representation, either express or implied, and expressly disclaims liability for any errors or omissions. Information may be subject to change without notice. Nikko AM Asia accepts no liability for any loss, indirect or consequential damages, arising from any use of or reliance on this document. The performance of the ETF s price on the Singapore Stock Exchange ( SGX ) may be different from the net asset value per unit of the ETF. The ETF may also be delisted from the SGX. Transaction in units of the ETF will result in brokerage commissions. Listing of the units does not guarantee a liquid market for the units. Units of the ETF may be bought or sold throughout trading hours of the SGX through any brokerage account. Investors should note that the ETF differs from a typical unit trust and units may only be created or redeemed directly by a participating dealer in large creation or redemption units. Investors may only redeem the units with Nikko AM Asia under certain specified conditions. The CPF interest rate for the Ordinary Account ( OA ) is based on the 12-month fixed deposit and monthend savings rates of major local banks, subject to a minimum 2.5% interest per annum. The interest rate for Special, Medisave and Retirement Accounts ( SMRA ) is pegged to the 12-month average yield of 10-year Singapore Government Securities yield plus 1%. A 4% floor rate will be maintained for interest earned on SMRA until 31 December 2018, after which a 2.5% minimum rate will apply. An extra 1% interest is paid on the first S$60,000 of a member s combined balances, including up to S$20,000 in the OA. The first S$20,000 in the OA and the first S$40,000 in the Special Account ( SA ) cannot be invested under the CPF Investment Scheme ( CPFIS ). Neither Markit, its Affiliates nor any third party data provider makes any warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the data contained herewith nor as to the results to be obtained by recipients of the data. Neither Markit, its Affiliates nor any data provider shall in any way be liable to any recipient of the data for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions in the Markit data, regardless of cause, or for any damages (whether direct or indirect) resulting therefrom. Markit has no obligation to update, modify or amend the data or to otherwise notify a recipient thereof in the event that any matter stated herein changes or subsequently becomes inaccurate. Without limiting the foregoing, Markit, its Affiliates, or any third party data provider shall have no liability whatsoever to you, whether in contract (including under an indemnity), in tort (including negligence), under a warranty, under statute or otherwise, in respect of any loss or damage suffered by you as a result of or in connection with any opinions, recommendations, forecasts, judgments, or any other conclusions, or any course of action determined, by you or any third party, whether or not based on the content, information or materials contained herein. Copyright 2017, Markit Indices Limited. Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited. Registration Number H 3

5 SOFT DOLLAR COMMISSIONS/ARRANGEMENTS In its management of the ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund (the Fund ), the Manager currently does not receive or enter into any soft dollar commissions or arrangements. 4

6 STATEMENT OF TOTAL RETURN For the financial period ended 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) 31 December 31 December S$ S$ Expenses Administrator fee 121,761 68,342 Audit fee 19,093 19,049 Custodian fee 85,357 82,521 Management fee 649, ,437 Legal and professional fee 11,289 9,320 Trustee fee 101, ,672 Transaction costs 2,350 1,350 Other expenses 86, ,562 1,077,678 1,027,253 Net expenses (1,077,678) (1,027,253) Net gains or losses on value of investments Net gains/(losses) on investments 5,665,801 (17,116,909) Net foreign exchange gains/(looses) 1,543 (2,358) 5,667,344 (17,119,267) Total return/(deficit) for the financial period before income tax 4,589,666 (18,146,520) Less: Income tax - - Total return/(deficit) for the financial period after income tax 4,589,666 (18,146,520) 5

7 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) 31 December 30 June S$ S$ ASSETS Portfolio of investments 744,993, ,747,826 Cash and bank balances 1,471,020 4,100,221 Sales awaiting settlement - 7,978,654 Receivables - 1,011,474 Prepayment 1,120 1,240 Total assets 746,466, ,839,415 LIABILITIES Payables 444, ,796 Purchases awaiting settlement - 11,612,330 Distribution payable 16,679,800 - Total liabilities 17,124,228 12,098,126 EQUITY Net assets attributable to unitholders 729,341, ,741,289 6

8 STATEMENT OF MOVEMENTS OF UNITHOLDERS' FUNDS For the financial period ended 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) 31 December 30 June S$ S$ Net assets attributable to unitholders at the beginning of financial period/year 877,741, ,199,160 Operations Change in net assets attributable to unitholders resulting from operations 4,589,666 11,040,862 Unitholders' contributions/(withdrawals) Creation of units 8,158, ,208,676 Cancellation of units (144,467,411) (1,117,877) Change in net assets attributable to unitholders resulting from net creation and cancellation of units (136,309,370) 129,090,799 Distributions (16,679,800) (15,589,532) Total (decrease)/increase in net assets attributable to unitholders (148,399,504) 124,542,129 Net assets attributable to unitholders at the end of financial period/year 729,341, ,741,289 7

9 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) By Industry (Primary) Quoted Fixed Income Securities Percentage of total net assets Fair attributable to Holdings at value at unitholders at 31 December December December 2017 S$ % BANK Export-Import Bank Korea EMTN 2.318% 27/09/2022 1,750,000 1,742, Korea Development Bank GMTN 2.65% 03/12/2018 2,000,000 2,012, ,754, ELECTRIC SP Power Assets Limited EMTN 3.4% 19/09/2032 2,750,000 2,934, SP Power Assets Limited EMTN 4.665% 18/08/2020 3,500,000 3,759, ,694, ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION Land Transport Authority 2.71% 27/05/2020 1,000,000 1,021, Land Transport Authority 2.9% 19/06/ , , Land Transport Authority 3.09% 31/08/2027 3,750,000 4,005, Land Transport Authority 3.275% 29/10/2025 7,500,000 8,094, Land Transport Authority MTN 2.57% 31/08/2022 3,250,000 3,341, Land Transport Authority MTN 2.73% 18/09/2020 4,000,000 4,100, Land Transport Authority MTN 3.51% 18/09/2030 2,000,000 2,205, ,291, FINANCE Temasek Financial I Ltd GMTN 3.265% 19/02/ ,750,000 12,119, Temasek Financial I Ltd GMTN 3.785% 05/03/2025 4,500,000 4,934, Temasek Financial I Ltd GMTN 4.2% 02/08/2050 5,000,000 5,802, ,856, REAL ESTATE Housing & Development Board MTN 2.088% 30/08/2022 3,000,000 3,019, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.1% 03/11/ ,750,000 12,841, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.22% 22/11/2021 2,750,000 2,783, Housing & Development Board MTN % 21/02/2022 4,250,000 4,304, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.35% 25/05/2027 2,500,000 2,509, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.5% 29/01/2023 7,500,000 7,690, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.545% 04/07/2031 7,500,000 7,489, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.598% 30/10/2029 5,000,000 5,076, Housing & Development Board MTN 3.008% 26/03/2021 1,750,000 1,812, Housing & Development Board MTN 3.1% 24/07/2024 2,500,000 2,651, ,180, SOVEREIGN Danga Capital Berhad 3.725% 11/08/2020 3,000,000 3,094, Singapore Government Bond 1.25% 01/10/ ,200,000 20,868, Singapore Government Bond 1.625% 01/10/ ,850,000 48,830, Singapore Government Bond 1.75% 01/04/ ,800,000 18,842, Singapore Government Bond 2% 01/07/ ,900,000 15,019, Singapore Government Bond 2.125% 01/06/ ,000,000 14,140, Singapore Government Bond 2.25% 01/06/ ,200,000 53,173, Singapore Government Bond 2.25% 01/08/ ,700,000 16,374, Singapore Government Bond 2.375% 01/06/ ,000,000 24,680, Singapore Government Bond 2.5% 01/06/ ,200,000 54,848,

10 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) By Industry (Primary) (continued) Percentage of total net assets Fair attributable to Holdings at value at unitholders at 31 December December December 2017 S$ % Quoted Fixed Income Securities (continued) SOVEREIGN (continued) Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/03/ ,690,000 31,518, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/04/ ,900,000 35,662, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/07/ ,250,000 42,180, Singapore Government Bond 2.875% 01/07/ ,640,000 15,753, Singapore Government Bond 2.875% 01/09/ ,385,000 28,325, Singapore Government Bond 3% 01/09/ ,750,000 41,322, Singapore Government Bond 3.125% 01/09/ ,830,000 32,759, Singapore Government Bond 3.25% 01/09/ ,866,000 40,449, Singapore Government Bond 3.375% 01/09/ ,950,000 32,744, Singapore Government Bond 3.5% 01/03/ ,188,000 62,078, ,666, Total Quoted Fixed Income Securities 739,444, Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities 5,549, Portfolio of investments 744,993, Other net liabilities (15,652,088) (2.15) Net assets attributable to unitholders 729,341, By Industry (Summary) Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 31 December 2017 Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders at 30 June 2017 % % Quoted Fixed Income Securities Bank Electric Engineering Construction Finance Real Estate Sovereign Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities Portfolio of investments Other net (liabilities)/assets (2.15) 0.11 Net assets attributable to unitholders

11 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) By Geography (Secondary) Percentage Percentage of total net assets of total net assets attributable to attributable to Fair value at unitholders at unitholders at 31 December December June 2017 S$ % % Malaysia 3,094, Singapore 732,595, South Korea 3,754, Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities 5,549, Portfolio of investments 744,993, Other net (liabilities)/assets (15,652,088) (2.15) 0.11 Net assets attributable to unitholders 729,341,

12 REPORT TO UNITHOLDERS For the financial period ended 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) The following contains additional information relating to the Fund. 1. Distribution of investments Please refer to the Statement of Portfolio on pages 8 to Credit rating of debt securities 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 30 June 2017 CREDIT RATINGS S$ % % AAA* 725,901, AA 6,694, AA- 3,754, N.A. 3,094, Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities 5,549, ,993, * The balance includes securities that are issued by government agencies of governments that have AAA rating as rated by Standard & Poor's. 3. To p 10 ho ldings 10 argest holdings at 31 December 2017 Cost Fair value Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders S$ S$ % Singapore Government Bond 3.5% 01/03/ ,598,929 62,078, Singapore Government Bond 2.5% 01/06/ ,728,797 54,848, Singapore Government Bond 2.25% 01/06/ ,657,605 53,173, Singapore Government Bond 1.625% 01/10/ ,222,065 48,830, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/07/ ,906,479 42,180, Singapore Government Bond 3% 01/09/ ,589,868 41,322, Singapore Government Bond 3.25% 01/09/ ,101,894 40,449, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/04/ ,321,761 35,662, Singapore Government Bond 3.125% 01/09/ ,653,904 32,759, Singapore Government Bond 3.375% 01/09/ ,685,740 32,744,

13 REPORT TO UNITHOLDERS For the financial period ended 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) 3. To p 10 ho ldings (c ontinued) 10 argest holdings at 31 December 2016 Cost Fair value Percentage of total net assets attributable to unitholders S$ S$ % Singapore Government Bond 2.25% 01/06/ ,357,622 58,783, Singapore Government Bond 2.5% 01/06/ ,338,656 50,875, Singapore Government Bond 4% 01/09/ ,994,242 50,259, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/07/ ,346,809 49,853, Singapore Government Bond 0.5% 01/04/ ,933,734 48,976, Singapore Government Bond 3.5% 01/03/ ,153,553 48,540, Singapore Government Bond 3% 01/09/ ,053,638 48,526, Singapore Government Bond 3.25% 01/09/ ,618,455 42,474, Singapore Government Bond 3.125% 01/09/ ,567,975 40,977, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/04/ ,487,609 40,331, Exposure to derivatives Nil 5. Global exposure to financial derivatives Nil 6. Collateral Nil 7. Securities lending or repurchase transactions Nil 8. Investment in unit trusts, mutual funds and collective investment schemes Nil 9. Borrowings Nil 12

14 REPORT TO UNITHOLDERS For the financial period ended 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) 10. Amount of redemptions and subscriptions for the financial period ended 31 December 2017 Units created 8,158,041 Units cancelled (144,467,411) 11. Financial ratios S$ Expense ratio 31 December December 2016 Total operating expenses S$ 2,146,677 1,783,734 Average daily net asset value S$ 858,842, ,542,479 Total expense ratio 1 % Turnover ratio 31 December December 2016 Lower of total value of purchases or sales S$ 112,284,277 59,860,180 Average daily net asset value S$ 860,489, ,203,346 Total turnover ratio 2 % The expense ratio has been computed based on the guidelines laid down by the Investment Management Association of Singapore ("IMAS"). The calculation of the expense ratio at 31 December 2017 was based on total operating expenses divided by the average net asset value for the year. The total operating expenses do not include brokerage and other transactions costs, performance fee, interest expense, distribution paid out to unitholders, foreign exchange gains/losses, front or back end loads arising from the purchase or sale of other funds and tax deducted at source or arising out of income received. The Fund does not pay any performance fee. The average net asset value is based on the daily balances. 2 The portfolio turnover ratio is calculated in accordance with the formula stated in the Code on Collective Investment Schemes. The calculation of the portfolio turnover ratio was based on the lower of the total value of purchases and sales of the underlying investments, divided by the average daily net asset value. 13

15 REPORT TO UNITHOLDERS For the financial period ended 31 December 2017 (Unaudited) 12. Related party transactions The Manager of the Fund is Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited, a subsidiary of Nikko Asset Management International Limited. The Trustee of the Fund is HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited (the "Trustee"). Management fee is payable to the Manager. Administrator fee and trustee fee are payable to the Trustee. Custody fee is payable to a related company of the Trustee, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited. In addition to related party information shown elsewhere in the financial statements (including the Statement of Portfolio), the following significant transactions took place during the financial period between the Fund and a related party at terms agreed between the parties and within the provisions of the Deeds: 31 December June 2017 S$ S$ Bank balances held with related party of the Trustee 1,471,020 4,100, Additional information Service Providers: Fund Manager : Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited appointed on 12 Aug 05; any retirement or removal per Clause 29 of Trust Deed Remuneration Basis : 0.15% p.a. on NAV Trustee/Custodian/ Valuation Agent/ Fund Registrar : HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited Market Makers : Flow Traders Asia Pte Ltd Participating Dealers : DBS Vickers Securities (S) Pte Ltd, CIMB-GK Securities Pte Ltd, Phillip Securities Pte Ltd & Deutsche Bank AG, Singapore Branch Corporate Secretariat : Boardroom Corporate & Advisory Services Pte Ltd Auditor : PricewaterhouseCoopers appointed on 12 Aug 05 Audit Partner : Ong King Howe Tax Agent : Ernst & Young Solutions LLP Solicitors to Managers : Allen & Gledhill LLP Solicitors to Trustee : WongPartnership LLP 14. Any other material information that will adversely impact the valuation of the fund Nil 14

16 Intentionally left blank.

17 Intentionally left blank.

18 12 Marina View, #18-02 Asia Square Tower 2, Singapore Intermediaries Hotline: / Website: Company registration number H

19 ANNUAL REPORT For the financial year ended 30 June 2017 ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund

20 MANAGERS Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited 12 Marina View, #18-02 Asia Square Tower 2 Singapore Company Registration No H DIRECTORS Lim Say Boon Lim Soon Chong Junichi Sayato Seet Oon Hui Eleanor David Jonathan Semaya Yu-Ming Wang TRUSTEE & REGISTRAR HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited 21 Collyer Quay, #13-02 HSBC Building Singapore AUDITORS PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 8 Cross Street, #17-00 PWC Building Singapore CUSTODIAN The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited 1 Queen s Road Central, Hong Kong This report is also available on our website ( 1

21 PERFORMANCE SUMMARY Returns (%) 3 Mth 6 Mth 1 Yr 3 Yr 5 Yr 10 Yr iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index total return series Since Inception ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund Source: 2017 Morningstar. All Rights Reserved., Markit & Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited as at 30 June iboxx is a mark of Markit Indices Limited and have been licensed for use by Nikko Asset Management Asia Ltd. Returns are calculated on a NAV-NAV 1 basis, in SGD, and assuming all dividends and distributions are reinvested, if any. Returns for period in excess of 1 year are annualised. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Note: (1) Nil subscription fee or preliminary charge Inception date: 31 August 2005 About ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund The ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund (the Fund ) is Singapore s first exchange traded bond fund. The Fund invests in a portfolio of high quality, Singapore government and quasi government bonds. It closely tracks the basket of bonds in the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index. The target tracking error of the fund is set at not more than 0.4% per annum. The Fund is a collective investment scheme, authorised in Singapore and listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the SGX-ST ). The Fund is an index fund which seeks investment results that correspond closely to the total return of the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index before fees and expenses. The iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index is an indicator of investment returns of debt obligations denominated in Singapore dollars issued or guaranteed by the government of Singapore or any government of People s Republic of China, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore or Thailand (collectively, the Asian Governments ), by an agency or instrumentality of the Singapore government (or any other Asian Government), by a Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) sponsored entity or a quasi- Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) entity and Singapore dollar denominated debt obligations issued by supranational financial institutions. The Index Provider determines the composition of the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index in accordance with its rules and procedures for the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index (which may change from time to time), and publishes information regarding the composition, investment characteristics and return of the iboxx ABF Singapore Bond Index. The Fund is suitable for investors who seek an index-based approach to investing in a portfolio of Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) sovereign and quasi-sovereign bond securities in a cost effective and easy to access manner. Units may also be used as an asset allocation tool or as a trading instrument. Whilst the Fund invests in a portfolio of bonds issued by the Singapore government (or any other Asian Government) and quasi-sovereign Singapore (or any other Asian Government) entities, the Fund itself is not guaranteed by the Singapore government, any Singapore government agency or any government or government agency of any other country. Note: Investors are advised to refer to the Fund s prospectus for more details on the Fund. 2

22 IMPORTANT INFORMATION This document is for information only with no consideration given to the specific investment objective, financial situation and particular needs of any specific person. Any securities mentioned herein are for illustration purposes only and should not be construed as a recommendation for investment. You should seek advice from a financial adviser before making any investment. In the event that you choose not to do so, you should consider whether the investment selected is suitable for you. Investments in unit trusts are not deposits in, obligations of, or guaranteed or insured by Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited ( Nikko AM Asia ). Past performance or any prediction, projection or forecast is not indicative of future performance. The funds may use or invest in financial derivative instruments. The value of units and income from them may fall or rise. Investments in the funds are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of principal amount invested. You should read the relevant prospectus and product highlights sheet obtainable from appointed distributors of Nikko AM Asia or our website ( before investing. The information contained herein may not be copied, reproduced or redistributed without the express consent of Nikko AM Asia. While reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information as at the date of publication, Nikko AM Asia does not give any warranty or representation, either express or implied, and expressly disclaims liability for any errors or omissions. Information may be subject to change without notice. Nikko AM Asia accepts no liability for any loss, indirect or consequential damages, arising from any use of or reliance on this document. The performance of the ETF s price on the Singapore Stock Exchange ( SGX ) may be different from the net asset value per unit of the ETF. The ETF may also be delisted from the SGX. Transaction in units of the ETF will result in brokerage commissions. Listing of the units does not guarantee a liquid market for the units. Units of the ETF may be bought or sold throughout trading hours of the SGX through any brokerage account. Investors should note that the ETF differs from a typical unit trust and units may only be created or redeemed directly by a participating dealer in large creation or redemption units. Investors may only redeem the units with Nikko AM Asia under certain specified conditions. The CPF interest rate for the Ordinary Account ( OA ) is based on the 12-month fixed deposit and monthend savings rates of major local banks, subject to a minimum 2.5% interest per annum. The interest rate for Special, Medisave and Retirement Accounts ( SMRA ) is pegged to the 12-month average yield of 10-year Singapore Government Securities yield plus 1%. A 4% floor rate will be maintained for interest earned on SMRA until 31 December 2017, after which a 2.5% minimum rate will apply. An extra 1% interest is paid on the first S$60,000 of a member s combined balances, including up to S$20,000 in the OA. The first S$20,000 in the OA and the first S$40,000 in the Special Account ( SA ) cannot be invested under the CPF Investment Scheme ( CPFIS ). Neither Markit, its Affiliates nor any third party data provider makes any warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the data contained herewith nor as to the results to be obtained by recipients of the data. Neither Markit, its Affiliates nor any data provider shall in any way be liable to any recipient of the data for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions in the Markit data, regardless of cause, or for any damages (whether direct or indirect) resulting therefrom. Markit has no obligation to update, modify or amend the data or to otherwise notify a recipient thereof in the event that any matter stated herein changes or subsequently becomes inaccurate. Without limiting the foregoing, Markit, its Affiliates, or any third party data provider shall have no liability whatsoever to you, whether in contract (including under an indemnity), in tort (including negligence), under a warranty, under statute or otherwise, in respect of any loss or damage suffered by you as a result of or in connection with any opinions, recommendations, forecasts, judgments, or any other conclusions, or any course of action determined, by you or any third party, whether or not based on the content, information or materials contained herein. Copyright 2017, Markit Indices Limited. Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited. Registration Number H 3

23 SOFT DOLLAR COMMISSIONS/ARRANGEMENTS In its management of the ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund (the Fund ), the Manager currently does not receive or enter into any soft dollar commissions or arrangements. 4

24 REPORT OF THE TRUSTEE For the financial year ended 30 June 2017 The Trustee is under a duty to take into custody and hold the assets of ABF Singapore Bond Index 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 10 to 29, 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 HSBC Institutional Trust Services (Singapore) Limited Authorised Signatory 29 September

25 STATEMENT BY THE MANAGER For the financial year ended 30 June 2017 In the opinion of Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited, the accompanying financial statements set out on pages 10 to 29, 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 the portfolio holdings of ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund (the Fund ) as at 30 June 2017, and the financial performance and movements in unitholders' funds for the financial 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 Nikko Asset Management Asia Limited Authorised Signatory 29 September

26 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR S REPORT TO THE UNITHOLDERS OF ABF SINGAPORE BOND INDEX FUND Our Opinion In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements of ABF Singapore Bond Index 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 30 June 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 30 June 2017; the Statement of Financial Position as at 30 June 2017; the Statement of Movements of Unitholders Funds for the financial year ended 30 June 2017; the Statement of Portfolio as at 30 June 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. Our Audit Approach As part of designing our audit, we determined materiality and assessed the risks of material misstatement in the accompanying financial statements. In particular, we considered where management made subjective judgements; for example, in respect of significant accounting estimates that involved making assumptions and considering future events that are inherently uncertain. As in all of our audits, we also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including among other matters consideration of whether there was evidence of bias that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud. Key Audit Matters We have determined that there are no key audit matters to communicate in our report. 7

27 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR S REPORT TO THE UNITHOLDERS OF ABF SINGAPORE BOND INDEX FUND 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 identified above 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. 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 management 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. 8

28 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR S REPORT TO THE UNITHOLDERS OF ABF SINGAPORE BOND INDEX FUND 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 those charged with governance 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. We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards. From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements of the current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor s report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication. The engagement partner on the audit resulting in this independent auditor s report is Ong King Howe. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Public Accountants and Chartered Accountants Singapore, 29 September

29 STATEMENT OF TOTAL RETURN For the financial year ended 30 June 2017 Note S$ S$ Expenses Audit fee 40,092 38,108 Custodian fee 167, ,023 Management fee 1,252, ,715 Legal and professional fee 23,855 36,362 Trustee fee 416, ,845 Transaction costs 2,988 4,613 Other expenses 197, ,915 2,100,835 1,466,581 Net expenses (2,100,835) (1,466,581) Net gains or losses on value of investments Net gains on investments 13,142,103 38,045,712 Net foreign exchange (losses)/gains (406) ,141,697 38,045,988 Total return for the financial year before income tax 11,040,862 36,579,407 Less: Income tax Total return for the financial year after income tax 11,040,862 36,579,407 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 10

30 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at 30 June 2017 Note S$ S$ ASSETS Portfolio of investments 876,747, ,938,186 Cash and bank balances 4,100,221 6,269,337 Sales awaiting settlement 7,978,654 13,950,814 Receivables 4 1,011, ,855 Prepayment 1,240 2,120 Total assets 889,839, ,410,312 LIABILITIES Payables 5 485, ,460 Purchases awaiting settlement 11,612,330 19,841,692 Total liabilities 12,098,126 20,211,152 EQUITY Net assets attributable to unitholders 7 877,741, ,199,160 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 11

31 STATEMENT OF MOVEMENTS OF UNITHOLDERS' FUNDS For the financial year ended 30 June 2017 Note S$ S$ Net assets attributable to unitholders at the beginning of financial year 753,199, ,530,372 Operations Change in net assets attributable to unitholders resulting from operations 11,040,862 36,579,407 Unitholders' contributions/(withdrawals) Creation of units 130,208, ,618,694 Cancellation of units (1,117,877) (1,298,883) Change in net assets attributable to unitholders resulting from net creation and cancellation of units 129,090, ,319,811 Distributions 6 (15,589,532) (13,230,430) Total increase in net assets attributable to unitholders 124,542, ,668,788 Net assets attributable to unitholders at the end of financial year 7 877,741, ,199,160 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 12

32 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 30 June 2017 By Industry (Primary) Quoted Fixed Income Securities Percentage of total net assets attributable to Holdings at Fair value at unitholders at 30 June June 2017 S$ % 30 June 2017 BANK Export-Import Bank of Korea EMTN 2.04% 24/07/2018 2,500,000 2,511, Korea Development Bank GMTN 2.05% 23/07/ , , Korea Development Bank GMTN 2.65% 03/12/2018 3,000,000 3,035, ,049, ELECTRIC SP PowerAssets Limited EMTN 3.4% 19/09/2032 2,250,000 2,256, SP PowerAssets Limited EMTN 4.665% 18/08/2020 3,500,000 3,819, SP PowerAssets Limited EMTN 4.84% 22/10/2018 2,000,000 2,090, ,165, ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION Land Transport Authority 2.71% 27/05/2020 1,000,000 1,033, Land Transport Authority 3.09% 31/08/2027 3,750,000 3,971, Land Transport Authority 3.275% 29/10/2025 3,250,000 3,505, Land Transport Authority MTN 2.57% 31/08/2022 3,250,000 3,362, Land Transport Authority MTN 2.73% 18/09/2020 3,500,000 3,627, Land Transport Authority MTN 3.51% 18/09/2030 2,000,000 2,202, ,703, FINANCE Temasek Financial I Ltd 3.785% 05/03/2025 4,250,000 4,675, Temasek Financial I Ltd GMTN 3.265% 19/02/ ,750,000 12,266, Temasek Financial I Ltd GMTN 4.2% 02/08/2050 4,750,000 5,366, ,309, REAL ESTATE Housing & Development Board MTN 2.035% 16/09/2026 1,500,000 1,466, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.088% 30/08/2022 4,000,000 4,037, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.1% 03/11/2020 9,750,000 9,906, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.22% 22/11/2021 1,250,000 1,272, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.35% 25/05/2027 2,500,000 2,488, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.5% 29/01/2023 7,000,000 7,202, Housing & Development Board MTN 2.505% 27/06/ , , Housing & Development Board MTN 2.545% 04/07/2031 7,500,000 7,500, Housing & Development Board MTN 3.008% 26/03/2021 1,750,000 1,833, Housing & Development Board MTN 3.1% 24/07/2024 5,500,000 5,848, Housing & Development Board Series % 19/09/ ,000,000 14,198, ,268, SOVEREIGN Singapore Government Bond 1.25% 01/10/ ,500,000 22,285, Singapore Government Bond 1.625% 01/10/ ,550,000 37,848, Singapore Government Bond 1.75% 01/04/ ,000,000 21,196, Singapore Government Bond 2% 01/07/ ,400,000 24,874, Singapore Government Bond 2.125% 01/06/ ,000,000 19,179, Singapore Government Bond 2.25% 01/06/ ,700,000 62,560, Singapore Government Bond 2.25% 01/08/ ,670,000 19,288, Singapore Government Bond 2.375% 01/06/ ,500,000 21,105, Singapore Government Bond 2.5% 01/06/ ,700,000 68,299, The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 13

33 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 30 June 2017 By Industry (Primary) (continued) Percentage of total net assets attributable to Holdings at Fair value at unitholders at 30 June June 30 June S$ % Quoted Fixed Income Securities (continued) SOVEREIGN (continued) Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/03/ ,050,000 36,235, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/04/ ,350,000 41,942, Singapore Government Bond 2.75% 01/07/ ,750,000 50,432, Singapore Government Bond 2.875% 01/07/ ,950,000 18,115, Singapore Government Bond 2.875% 01/09/ ,355,000 35,634, Singapore Government Bond 3% 01/09/ ,350,000 48,711, Singapore Government Bond 3.125% 01/09/ ,830,000 39,590, Singapore Government Bond 3.25% 01/09/ ,266,000 42,620, Singapore Government Bond 3.375% 01/09/ ,750,000 30,378, Singapore Government Bond 3.5% 01/03/ ,628,000 68,078, Singapore Government Bond 4% 01/09/ ,450,000 51,098, ,477, Total Quoted Fixed Income Securities 869,973, Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities 6,774, Portfolio of investments 876,747, Other net assets 993, Net assets attributable to unitholders 877,741, By Industry (Summary) Percentage of Percentage of total net assets total net assets attributable to attributable to unitholders at unitholders at 30 June 30 June % % Quoted Fixed Income Securities Bank Electric Engineering Construction Finance Real Estate Sovereign Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities Portfolio of investments Other net assets Net assets attributable to unitholders The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 14

34 STATEMENT OF PORTFOLIO As at 30 June 2017 By Geography (Secondary) Percentage of total net assets Percentage of total net assets attributable to attributable to Fair value at unitholders at unitholders at 30 June June June 2016 S$ % % Singapore 863,923, South Korea 6,049, Accrued interest receivable on quoted fixed income securities 6,774, Portfolio of investments 876,747, Other net assets 993, Net assets attributable to unitholders 877,741, The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 15