MetLife Small Company Equity Fund Institutional Shares (MSVIX)

Overview

The described fund is a comprehensive investment entity focusing on fixed income securities. It pledges to allocate at least 80% of its net assets, along with any borrowings intended for investment objectives, across a broad spectrum of fixed income assets and comparable financial instruments. This commitment underscores the fund's objective to maintain a strong orientation towards investments that provide regular income, while also incorporating a level of safety and predictability typically associated with fixed income securities. Inherent in its strategy is the flexibility to invest across various sectors and types of fixed income instruments, reflecting a diversified approach to managing investment risk and seeking returns.

Products and Services

The fund's investment portfolio includes a variety of fixed income securities and instruments that cater to different investment objectives and risk tolerances. Below are the primary components of the fund's investment strategy:

• U.S. Government and Agency Securities:

  These are bonds issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government and its agencies or instrumentalities. They are considered low-risk investments and can provide stable returns, making them a cornerstone for investors seeking security in their investment portfolio.

• Municipal Bonds:

  Municipal bonds are issued by states, cities, counties, or other governmental entities to fund public projects. They often offer tax-free interest income for investors, making them an attractive option for those in higher tax brackets looking to reduce their taxable income.

• Corporate Bonds:

  Corporate bonds are issued by companies to raise capital for business activities. They typically offer higher yields compared to government securities, balancing the increased risk with potentially greater returns. This allows investors to diversify their income sources while contributing to corporate growth.

• Residential and Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities:

  These securities are backed by mortgage loans on residential or commercial properties. They provide income through interest payments derived from the underlying mortgages, introducing real estate exposure to the investment portfolio.

• Asset-Backed Securities:

  Asset-backed securities are supported by loan portfolios other than mortgages, such as auto loans or credit card debt. They offer another layer of diversification and potential for income, through the securitization of various types of receivables.

• Convertible Securities:

  Convertible securities are bonds or preferred shares that can be converted into a pre-determined number of common stock or equity shares. This provides the potential for capital appreciation along with the fixed income feature, appealing to investors looking for growth in addition to income.