The Portfolio will normally invest at least 80% of its total assets in the equity securities of companies located outside of the United States. Equity securities consist of common stock and other securities such as depositary receipts. Under normal market conditions, at least 65% of the Portfolio’s assets will be invested in securities of issuers located in at least three foreign countries (generally in excess of three), which may include countries with developing and emerging economies. The Adviser employs quantitative and qualitative analysis to identify high quality, reasonably valued stocks it believes have the ability to accelerate earnings growth and exceed investor expectations.

The Adviser utilizes a three-step process in stock selection. First, the Adviser reviews a series of screens utilizing the Adviser’s investment models, which are based on fundamental characteristics, designed to eliminate companies that the Adviser’s research shows have a high probability of underperformance.

Factors considered when reviewing the screens include a multi-factor valuation framework, earnings quality, capital structure and financial quality. Next, securities that pass the initial screens are then evaluated to try to identify stocks with the highest probability of producing an earnings growth rate that exceeds investor expectations. This process incorporates changes in earnings expectations and earnings quality analysis. Finally, these steps produce a list of eligible companies which are subjected to analysis by the Adviser to further understand each company’s business prospects and earnings potential. A stock is sold when it no longer meets the Adviser’s criteria.

Under adverse market conditions, the Portfolio may also make temporary investments in investment grade debt securities. Such investment strategies could result in the Portfolio not achieving its investment objective.