Barrow Hanley Total Return Bond Fund I Shares (BTRIX)

Overview

This fund is predominantly invested in a variety of fixed income securities and debt instruments. With a strategy focused on allocating at least 80% of its net assets in addition to any borrowings for investment purposes, toward these financial instruments. The fund aims to diversify its portfolio across various types of debt to achieve its investment objectives, catering to investors seeking exposure to fixed income markets. This includes a broad spectrum from corporate bonds, including those of higher risk and potential reward (high yield bonds), to more secure government and municipal bonds, as well as specialized financial instruments like TIPS and convertible securities.

Products and Services

• Corporate Bonds

  These are debt securities issued by corporations to fund business operations, projects, or expansion. They typically offer higher yields compared to government bonds, reflecting the increased risk. The fund invests in a range of corporate bonds, including high yield bonds which offer higher interest rates due to higher credit risk.

• Commercial Paper

  A short-term unsecured debt instrument issued by corporations, typically used for the financing of inventory, receivables, and other short-term liabilities. Commercial papers offer a higher yield compared to treasury bills but come with higher risk.

• Government Securities

  Includes debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies, and instrumentalities. This category provides a high level of security and includes Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), which offer protection against inflation.

• Municipal Bonds

  Debt securities issued by states, cities, counties, and other governmental entities to fund public projects. These bonds often offer tax-free interest income for investors, making them an attractive option for tax-averse individuals.

• Bank Loans

  Senior loans arranged by one or several banks and syndicated to a group of banks or institutional investors. Bank loans are typically secured by the borrower's assets, providing a higher claim on assets than unsecured bonds.

• Mortgage- and Asset-Backed Securities

  These are bonds backed by mortgage or other financial assets. They are designed to provide regular payments derived from the underlying assets, offering an alternative to traditional fixed income securities.

• Convertible Securities

  Bonds or preferred stock that can be converted into a predetermined amount of the company's equity at certain times during its life, usually at the discretion of the bondholder. Convertible securities combine fixed-income characteristics with potential for appreciation.